Kvemo Kartli is historically on the furthest frontiers of Georgia.
That"s why it was the first point of attack for numerous invaders.
The historical monuments here are plentiful, for example, Bolnisi bishopric
is one of the oldest in Georgia. Bolnisi Sioni was built in the 5th
century during Vakhtang Gorgasali"s reign. Bishop David and the
cathedral construction date, 478-493 are both mentioned in the
inscription on the walls.
The ruins of the town of Dmanisi are world famous. In 1990, during
archaeological excavations, Scientists discovered the oldest remains of
a Eurasian man, dated 1,700,000 years old. The archaeologists have dug
only a small portion, where dwellings were discovered. There is Dmanisi
Sioni basilica of the 9th century, and some small churches and other
buildings. Bethany monastery, founded in the 12th -13th centuries
during the epoch of Queen Tamar, is located in the valley of the river
Vere. There are masterfully painted frescos on the walls and on one of
them Queen Tamar is represented. One can get to the Monastery through
the scenic Tbilisi-Kojori motorway. There are trails here for those
fond of horseback tours.
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