Sighnaghi, Georgia: attractions and photos

The small town of Sighnaghi (Georgia) with a population of just over two thousand people will not leave a single traveler indifferent. It is so picturesque that it causes only delight, admiration and the desire to always admire the splendor of nature and the creations of human hands.

Bodbe Monastery

The town of Signaghi (Georgia) is located high in the mountains, in the Alazani Valley. Its construction is attributed to the era of the reign of Heraclius II, that is, to the eighteenth century.

Travelers will certainly be happy to visit Orthodox shrines. It is located two kilometers from the city of the Bodbe convent, built in the fourth century. It was built on the site of the grave of St. Nina, which preached Christianity in Georgia. She turned to Christianity the ruling in those years of King Mirian and his wife Nana, as well as many other inhabitants. Therefore, Georgia is rightfully considered to be one of the first countries in the world to accept Christianity. The monastery was founded by King Mirian. And several centuries later, in 1617, a school opened at him.

It was one of the best educational institutions of those times, where the richest library was. Unfortunately, with the advent of Soviet power the monastery was closed. But, fortunately, it did not suffer the fate of many magnificent ancient temples, barbarously destroyed during the reign of the Communists. And in 1995 the monastery again opened its doors.

Church of St. George

What is worth seeing for those who came to Sighnaghi (Georgia)? Another Orthodox shrine is the church of St. George. Its locals call Surb Georg. Initially, this church belonged to Armenians, who moved to these lands on the orders of Irakly II. The stone temple is distinguished by its harsh beauty and strength. In the middle of the nineteenth century the cathedral was closed and gradually fell into decay. Only very recently the ancient building was transferred to the Georgian Orthodox Church. Inside the church there are not only icons, but also rare old books. They can be seen by those who visited Signachi.

Georgia, Sighnaghi: attractions

Townspeople have the right to be proud of a perfectly preserved fortress. The construction of a powerful citadel begins at the time of the reign of the legendary Queen Tamara, that is, the twelfth century.

And finally the fortress was completed under the reign of King Irakli II in the eighteenth century. The grandiose structure covers an area of forty hectares. And now the two-tier walls of the fortress impress with their power. The magnificent gate and twenty-eight watchtowers were especially well preserved. The stone fortress in the frame of lush greenery looks luxurious and impressive. There are no words to describe this greatest creation of human hands and human genius against the background of an amazing nature.

Like many localities in Georgia, this town is famous for its wine products. Tourists certainly need to visit the wine cellar of Sighnaghi under the poetic name "Tears of a pheasant". In addition to tasting the finest varieties of wine, live music, hospitable feast, visitors are waiting for fascinating stories about the history of the creation of this or that vivifying and ancient drink.

Not far from Sighnaghi is the village of Mirzaani, in which the famous Georgian artist of the twentieth century, Nikolo Pirosmani, was born. Here is a museum dedicated to his life and work. In it there are pictures of the great master of painting, the bright representative of such art style, as primitivism.

Particularly impressive is the portrait of Queen Tamara and a picture dedicated to the collection of grapes. The museum has an archaeological exposition. In addition, exhibitions are constantly arranged here. About seven years ago, the first exhibition of works by Picasso was opened in the museum.

City Hall Building

A magnificent example of architecture is the City Hall. The three-story building, built in the style of Italian classicism with elements of Georgian architecture, decorated with high arcades and a clock tower, is very beautiful and very original. Even the usual grilles on the windows look impressive, because it is perfectly executed openwork forging. Built at the end of the twentieth century, the building of the City Hall very organically fits into the architecture of the old town.

The Park "April 9"

Those who came to Sighnaghi (Georgia), a photo in the city must be done. And where better to take good pictures? In the center of Sighnaghi there is a park "9 April". It is named in honor of the Independence Day of Georgia, which is celebrated on this day. In addition to luxurious trees, picturesque bushes, exquisite flowers, emerald grass, the park is unique for its clean and healing high-mountain air.

City of love

Are you looking for a city of love in Georgia? Sighnaghi, the locals call it that. Perhaps, because in this city it is impossible not to fall in love. It is here that the famous Palace of Marriages, the order in which is quite different from those that exist in other settlements. To the beautiful building of a pinkish hue with an open terrace and wide arches leads a wide staircase, surrounded by lanterns.

In this Palace of Marriage you can make a marriage at any time of the day, any day. In addition, those who wish to be married at once, without any pre-filed applications for several days. This gives a unique charm to an already romantic event. Therefore, on the way to an unusual palace, you can often meet couples in love who have just completed the sacrament of marriage.

Sculptures

Separately it is worth mentioning the many different sculptures of the city of Signahi. For example, this is a refined lady with a small child in her arms, an umbrella and a dog. Another interesting sculpture of a lanky doctor with an umbrella and a bag on a donkey.

Conclusion

Now you know what interesting is the town of Sighnaghi, Georgia. Attractions deserve the attention of every tourist. In the city there are many, so you need to think about the route of travel.