One-day excursion to Kakheti "Forgotten Fortress"

Kvetera, Kveter, Keter - in historical sources, Kvetera is first mentioned with the reign of King Kvirké III (1010-1037) from the early 11th century, although according to Vakhushti Batonishvili, the city should have existed as early as the 8th century, and archaeological research in 1968 confirms this version.

It was one of the centers of the Kingdom of Kakheti. The advantageous geographical location contributed to the advancement of Kvetera. King Kvirké III (1010-1037) divided the territory of Kakhet-Ereti into seven kingdoms. One of the most important among them was Kvetera Saeristavo. The strength and significance of Kvetera is evidenced by the fact that Bagrat IV, who conquered the entire Kakhet-Ereti in 1040-1043, failed to capture Kvetera.

In the late 12th century, George Lasha granted Kvetera and the surrounding lands to Abadurhu Kalamnidze for his loyalty and military exploits. However, by the end of the 13th century, mentions of Kvetera disappear from historical chronicles, just as life in this city vanished. There is no explanation for this, but there is a legend...

Excursion program:

• Kvetera Fortress City - historical records from the late Middle Ages state that King George IV Lasha granted Kvetera, Sabuysan, and everything in the Ilti Valley to Tavada Abardukh Kalamnidze for his merits in campaigns against enemies and support of King George. What happened in Kvetera later is unknown. Traces of urban life are lost from the end of the 13th century and are not mentioned in later sources. Usually, there are few tourists here, and it is very quiet and peaceful. You can reach the city by car or hike up on foot.
• Cholokashvili Princes' Castle in Matani - Cholokashvili is a princely family originating from the rulers of the Giler district in Dagestan (before 1320), whose descendants, upon adopting the Orthodox faith, received possessions in Kakheti from Georgian King George V shortly before the fading of the Prupakidze princely family. The fortress walls and towers have been fairly well preserved, and there is a church in the castle courtyard, believed to have been built by the Crusaders.
• St. Nicholas Church in Matani - located on the outskirts of the village of Matani. The domed church was built in the 16th century using cobblestones and broken stone. The neck and the pyramidal dome are made of brick. The church has three entrances, and the altar is separated by a brick masonry.
• Winemaker in Akhmeta - a separate wine microzone in the Armazi district. The wine from this region has a distinct aroma and taste different from other wines of Kakheti.
• Old and New Shuamta Monasteries - Old Shuamta and New Shuamta are two monasteries in Kakheti, located next to each other. The New Shuamta Monastery is developing, with active reconstruction of the main church and monastery walls. Old Shuamta is in a semi-abandoned state, although some economic activities take place here.
• Gombori Pass - one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Georgia with a magnificent panorama of Kavkasioni, Alazani Valley, and the eastern border of Shida-Kartli.

Early departure from Tbilisi. Upon request, a picnic can be arranged during the journey, or a visit to a winemaker or dinner at a restaurant in Kakheti (please specify options when booking the excursion).

Difficulty level: Easy. 250 km by car, 8 km on foot - almost all attractions are within transportation reach, and the hiking trails are not challenging.

❗️Required equipment:

• Backpack
• Comfortable, non-slip footwear
• Raincoat
• Warm sweater
• Buff/cap
• Comfortable sportswear
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal hygiene items
• Individual first aid kit

❗️Water: According to your needs, but no less than 1 liter.
❗️Do not weigh down your backpack with unnecessary items, calculate the required amount of water and clothing correctly.

❗️Tour rules:

1. The tour is led by a guide (or guides).
2. During the tour, all participants obey the leader's instructions to ensure maximum safety, organization, and equal comfort for everyone.
3. It is prohibited to arrive at the meeting point in a state of alcohol intoxication. Participants may be excluded at the discretion of the guide.
4. Drinking alcoholic beverages in the car is not allowed during the journey.
5. The use of headphones is not allowed during walks.
6. Do not litter.
7. Do not pick flowers.
8. Animals are not allowed.
9. To avoid conflict situations during the hike, we avoid discussing topics such as a) politics, b) religion, c) football.
10. In case of force majeure situations, the guide reserves the right to change the course of the tour.

❗️The excursion 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 excursion 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.