Historical and Religious Tour of Georgia "In the Footsteps of the 13 Assyrian Fathers"

The Assyrian Fathers (ასურელი მამები) refer to a group of monk-preachers who arrived in Georgia during the mid-6th century. Their arrival essentially marked the establishment and proliferation of monasticism in Georgia, leading to the foundation of several monasteries. In many ways, their presence divided the history of Georgian Christianity into distinct "before" and "after" periods.

Please note that our aim is not to provide an extensive historical or religious study. Rather, we seek to acquaint individuals who love and appreciate Georgia with small fragments of its ancient history. Our tour will showcase the beauty of its nature, the profoundness of faith, and the purity of the souls of those who introduced this faith to Georgia. We aim to offer participants an opportunity to pay reverence to the relics of the righteous, marvel at the grandeur of the monasteries they established, and be moved by the strength of their faith.

On May 7th, the Orthodox Church commemorates the Day of Remembrance for the 13 Assyrian Fathers, who founded the monastic movement in Georgia. During our tour, we will attempt to retrace their paths and understand their contributions to the history of Orthodoxy in Georgia.

Tour Itinerary:

✅ Day 1 - "Peace be with you"

Upon arrival, participants will check into their hotel. Our tour commences in the city of Tbilisi, so the schedule may vary for those arriving through Batumi, Kutaisi, or Tbilisi airports. However, between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, all participants will gather at a cozy restaurant in a natural setting for a delightful "Dinner-Meet and Greet" session. Late arrivals will be provided with transfers.

📌 Tbilisi, city walks, dinner and meet and greet. The activities on the first day may differ for tour participants, depending on their arrival airport (Batumi, Kutaisi, or Tbilisi).

✅ Day 2 - "From Trialeti to Tbilisi"

Today, we will pay homage to the Holy Fathers at Ulumbo, Breta, Urbnisi, and Samtavisi. They left lasting imprints from the Trialeti Range to Tbilisi. Despite the passage of fifteen centuries since their arrival, the foundations they laid remain vibrant. Neither the Arabs led by Murvan the Deaf, nor the seven barbarian invasions of Tamerlane, nor the Ottomans, nor the formidable Shah Abbas could sway Georgia into renouncing Orthodoxy. Undoubtedly, the 13 Assyrian Fathers played a significant role in fortifying the Christian faith during the 6th century.

📌 Monasteries of Breta, Ulumbo, Urbnisi, and Samtavisi, Cathedral of Gori, winery

✅ Day 3 - "Where it all began"

Ancient Mtskheta, where the 13 Assyrian Fathers arrived in 542 AD, holds great significance. It was here, just like Saint Nino a century earlier, that they visited King Farsman IV's throne and the seat of the Catholicos Evlavi. An intriguing legend surrounds the king's discovery of the arrival of the Holy Fathers, exclusively shared with tour participants. The Fathers were believed to have been received at the Samtavro Monastery, which we will visit in the morning. Our journey will then lead us to the path of Saint Shio Mgvimeli, the sole hermit among the Holy Fathers, who retreated from Mtskheta to the caves, where the Shio-Mgvime Monastery emerged. After lunch, we will proceed to the beautiful Tsilkani Monastery, with its Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, featuring astonishing asymmetrical architecture. Part of the third day's tour will be kept as a surprise, exclusively for you.

📌 Monasteries of Samtavro, Shio-Mgvimeli, Tsilkani, and the 13 Assyrian Fathers in Dzveli Kanda, winery, hotel

✅ Day 4 - "Abode of the Teacher"

Mount Zedazeni is the only place in Georgia where all 13 Assyrian Fathers resided together. Today, it is crowned by the eponymous monastery, while remnants of a pagan shrine from the 6th century once stood here. It is from this mountaintop that the endeavors of the Holy Fathers in Georgia began. The remains of Saint John Zedazneli, the teacher and leader of the monks, rest here. The vantage point offers a magnificent view of Mtskheta and Tbilisi. Our next stop will be the Martkopi Monastery, founded by Anton Martodmkopeli, an ascetic who brought a holy relic to Georgia. The nature of the relic and its story will be revealed during the tour.

📌 Monasteries of Zedazeni and Martkopi, fish tavern, Mamadaviti Church, Pantheon, Anchiskhati Church, dinner with a view of the city, hotel

✅ Day 5 - "The Martyrs of Kakheti"

Today, we embark on a journey to Kakheti. Almost everyone knows that it is Georgia's renowned wine region, but few are aware of Kakheti's historical significance as a battleground for the preservation of faith in Christ. Our day begins with a visit to the Ikalto Monastery, founded by Saint Zenon Ikaltoeli. However, this site is not merely a monastery; it was also home to an Academy that offered teachings in subjects such as mathematics, viticulture and winemaking, linguistics, and metallurgy. Additionally, a vast library containing invaluable documents on the history of Georgia once stood here, sadly destroyed first by Timur and later by Shah Abbas, who set it ablaze.
Nonetheless, our next destination awaits— the Alaverdi Monastery, featuring a magnificent cathedral and arguably ranking among the most beautiful monasteries in Nekresi. Furthermore, we will visit the Khirsa Monastery, renowned for offering the most breathtaking view of the Caucasus. Let us proceed with our journey.

📌 Gombori Pass, Ikalto Monastery, Alaverdi, Nekresi, Khirsa and Bodbe Monasteries, winery visit, dinner at a local restaurant, accommodation in a hotel

✅ Day 6 - "The Sacred Wilderness"

One of the most prominent figures among the revered fathers is David of Gareji, commonly known as David Garejeli. His name is intricately linked to Tbilisi, the cave monastery in the desert, and Jerusalem. Today, our path leads us to the Gareji Desert, home to the David Gareji Lavra. This site holds immense significance for countless pilgrims and stands as one of the most breathtaking locations in all of Georgia. However, it also bears witness to the harrowing persecution endured by followers of Christ. Adjacent to the monastery, we will have the opportunity to marvel at the vibrant hills of Mravaltskaro. Following this, we will enjoy a delightful lunch at a family-run restaurant in the village of Khashmi. Later, we will explore the Trinity Church in Katskhi and the Cholokashvili Princes' castle.

📌 Gombori Pass, Ikalto Monastery, Alaverdi, Nekresi, Khirsa and Bodbe Monasteries, winery visit, dinner at a local restaurant, accommodation in a hotel

✅ Day 7 - "A Time for Reflection"

Our captivating tour is nearing its conclusion. Today, you have the entire day at your leisure until the evening. Take the opportunity to explore the city, visit the Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi, or marvel at the majestic Holy Trinity Church. You will be amazed by the harmonious coexistence of a mosque, a Catholic cathedral, a synagogue, and Armenian Gregorian and Georgian Orthodox churches, all situated within the quaint vicinity of the Old Town. Perhaps you'd like to relax at a charming café or indulge in some shopping. As the evening approaches, we will visit the Jvari Monastery, renowned for its awe-inspiring view of the confluence of the Alazani and Kura rivers. Our journey concludes with a farewell dinner at a restaurant along the picturesque riverside.

📌 Free time to explore Tbilisi, engage in shopping, acquire souvenirs, visit the Jvari Monastery, and enjoy a farewell dinner at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Kura River.

✅ Day 8 - "We Know You'll Return!"

As you bid farewell to Georgia, you carry with you a treasure trove of legends, facts, conjectures, fragments of history, and, most importantly, your personal experiences from these sacred places, which hold deep significance for every Georgian. Perhaps now you have a deeper understanding of why Georgians are the way they are, why there are over 5000 churches in this small country, and why the Catholicos-Patriarch is held in the highest regard in Georgia. Undoubtedly, a desire may arise within you to return once again, to be filled with faith and hope in this holy land! Until we meet again!

📌 Packing, preparations for departure. Depending on the flight time, there is a possibility of a city tour, souvenir shopping, transfers to the airport.
📌 The schedule for the 8th day may vary for tour participants depending on the departure airport (Kutaisi or Tbilisi).

❗️Don't forget to bring:

• Passport
• Backpack
• Non-slip footwear (preferably hiking boots)
• Windbreaker jacket
• Warm sweater
• Raincoat
• Buff/hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal hygiene items
• Individual first aid kit

❗️Tour rules:

1. The tour will be guided by knowledgeable guides.
2. All participants are required to follow the guide's instructions to ensure a safe, organized, and equally comfortable tour for everyone.
3. Participants are not allowed to arrive at the meeting point under the influence of alcohol. Those in such a state may be excluded from the tour at the guide's discretion.
4. Consumption of alcoholic beverages in the transportation vehicle during the journey is prohibited.
5. The use of headphones while walking is prohibited.
6. Let's keep the environment clean and refrain from picking flowers.
7. Pets are not allowed on the tour.
8. To avoid potential conflicts, we refrain from discussing topics such as a) politics, b) religion, and c) football during the hike.
9. In case of unforeseen circumstances, the guide reserves the right to change the tour route.

❗️The tour program provided is a promotional outline. Due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances, certain elements of the program may be substituted with equivalent alternatives.

❗️The average cost of the tour is indicated for two people. The final price will be determined based on your specific requirements regarding hotel standards, restaurants, and group size. A detailed tour itinerary and list of services will be sent to you via email after registration on the website or upon request. 

❗️If you have allergies to specific plants, animals, food products, or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance.