CAUCASUS
Tbilisi
Georgia
Tbilisi can’t seem to decide where it lies. European, Asian and Middle Eastern influences seamlessly blend into the environment in and around Tbilisi, creating a uniqueness found seldom elsewhere.
Georgia's capital and largest city, Tbilisi is the crossroads, both then and now, for exploring Georgia. It has everything from historic old towns, ancient churches, vertigo-inducing castles, and quirky clock-towers. At the crossroads of Asia and Europe, this diverse city still evokes its Silk Road glory days while mingling with the bold future. Lying on and built upon the banks of the Mtkvari River, Tbilisi was founded in the 5th century A.D. and is currently home to 1.5 million people. The diversity of Tbilisi can be best understood by walking through the historic quarters and appreciating the diversity of architecture. Medieval, Soviet and modern structures all work together to form the quirky cityscape.
Overlooking the beautiful capital of Tbilisi, the impressive Narikala Fortress stands as testament to its complex history. Originally a Persian Citadel, it changed sides with the Kingdom of Georgia, the Mongolian Empire, and the Umayyad Caliphate until ultimately becoming (for now at least) Tbilisi's most popular tourist attraction. A modern cable-car makes the journey up every few minutes to the top of the fortress, flying over the Mtkvari River and the old town. With a simple pause atop the ancient walls and taking in the view, the uniqueness of this remarkable capitol city becomes more clear than ever.
THE SILK ROAD JOURNAL
How We Got Here
Safranbolu is in the north central region of Turkey, not far from the Black Sea. We arrived by a 7-8 hour bus from Istanbul.
The Highlight
Tbilisi is the Capitol of Georgia and the main hub for travel around the Causcasus region, with many flights and busses connecting. We arrived by minivan from the border of Aremenia.
Our Treasure
Tbilisi has an exciting blend of European, Asian and Middle Eastern styles, from architecture to food. It truly is one of the most blended cities on this planet.
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S N A P S H O T S O N T H E R O A D
W H E R E W I L L Y O U R J O U R N E Y T A K E Y O U N E X T ?
Tbilisi filled your mind with wonder with its assortment of styles, yet the road west narrows and elevates. Are you ready to witness snow-capped peaks and craggy valleys, lasting for miles on end? Or do you want to cross the Caspian into the heart of the Silk Roads? Journey to Kazbegi, in the heart of the Caucausus Mountains, or to Khiva, Silk Road city.