Imereti is a western Georgian region, where the witty and optimistic people, the Imeretians, live. Khachapuri (cheese pie), a staple of Georgian cuisine somewhat similar to an Italian pizza, is very tasty.
Kutaisi is the principle and oldest city of Imereti. The second city of Georgia
has been mentioned since the 6th century B.C. After Tbilisi was invaded
by Arabs, Kutaisi became the capital of a newly strong and united
Georgia.
Kutaisi is the principle and oldest city of Imereti. The second city of Georgia has been written
of since the 6
th century B.C. After Tbilisi was invaded by the Arabs, Kutaisi became
the capital of a newly strong and united Georgia. Kutaisi citizens have maintained their ambitions
(in the positive sense of the word) the since that time. Kutaisi was one of the greatest cultural
centers of Georgia, and the Kutaisian sense of humor is universally recognized.
The most interesting monuments of Imereti are Bagrati Cathedral, built in 1005 during the reign of
King Bagrat III, the king who united Georgia. Bagrati Cathedral is one of the most remarkable
sights in Kutaisi. It is built near the walls of the old city’s stone wall, called Ukimerioni.
There is also the Gelati Monastery, where, in the 12
th century, the Gelati Academy was
founded by
King David Aghmashenebeli (the Builder). David Aghmashenebeli is buried in Gelati monastery, says
a humble sign at its entrance, according to his will.
Near Kutaisi, is Motsameta Monastery, which has witnesses various pages in the history of Georgia.
Here, David and Konstantine Eristavi refused to adopt Islam, preferring to die as martyrs in
735-737 AD, during raids headed by the Arab commander, Murvan the Deaf. The cathedral of that
period did not survive. The church of the Monastery was built in the late middle ages nearby.
To the south of Kutaisi, lays Vani. During excavations, ruins were discovered of ancient cathedrals
and palaces, and even a little treasure!
The population of Imereti is cheerful, industrious and creative. While driving to Imereti, at
the village of Shrosha, you will see people along the motorway selling beautiful articles made
of clay. This is one of the oldest and most popular handicrafts in Georgia.
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