A Journey Through Time: The Monasteries of Abastumani

The sun had barely risen when I found myself on a winding road through the lush, green landscapes of Akhaltsikhe. My guide, Georgi, was a man of many stories, each more intriguing than the last. As we drove, he regaled me with tales of the ancient monasteries we were about to visit. Our first stop was the Sapara Monastery, a hidden gem nestled in a forested canyon. The air was crisp, and the silence was only broken by the rustling leaves and distant bird calls. The monastery itself was a marvel, with its intricate carvings and frescoes that seemed to whisper secrets of the past. I could almost hear the chants of monks from centuries ago as I wandered through the sacred halls.

Next, we ventured to the Zarzma Monastery, a place that felt like stepping into another world. The domed church stood majestically against the backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains, its belfry reaching towards the heavens. Beneath the church lay an underground burial vault, a somber reminder of the monks who had dedicated their lives to this sacred place. As I explored the monastery, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of reverence for the history and spirituality that permeated the air.

A Dip in History: The Sulphur Pools of Abastumani

After a morning of exploring ancient monasteries, Georgi had a surprise in store for me. We made our way to the sulphur pools of Abastumani, a place renowned for its healing properties. The pools were nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Caucasus Mountains, their waters shimmering in the midday sun. As I slipped into the warm, mineral-rich waters, I felt a sense of relaxation wash over me. It was as if the stresses of the modern world melted away, leaving only a profound connection to the natural world around me.

Georgi explained that these pools had been used for centuries to treat various ailments, and I could see why. The combination of the stunning scenery and the soothing waters made for an unforgettable experience. As I floated in the pool, I couldn’t help but reflect on the monks who had once sought solace in these very waters, finding peace and healing in their embrace.

Stargazing at the Abastumani Observatory

As the day turned to night, our final destination awaited: the Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory. Perched high on Mount Kanobili, the observatory offered a breathtaking view of the night sky, free from the pollution and artificial lights of the city. Georgi and I joined a small group of stargazers, each of us eager to catch a glimpse of the cosmos.

The observatory was a marvel of engineering, its telescopes trained on the stars above. As I peered through the lens, I was struck by the vastness of the universe, a reminder of how small we truly are in the grand scheme of things. The experience was both humbling and awe-inspiring, a perfect end to a day filled with history, nature, and wonder.

As we made our way back to Akhaltsikhe, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the journey I had embarked upon. The Abastumani Tour had been a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, a chance to explore the mysteries of the past while connecting with the beauty of the present. For those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, I highly recommend this tour.