Church where Charles V (HRE) was baptised & home of Van Eyck's masterpiece, the Ghent Altar.piece. -Google. St Bavo’s Cathedral is the oldest parish church in the lively heart of Ghent. It stands on the site of a 10th century church and a 12th century Romanesque church. The latter was dedicated to St John the Baptist. In the Middle Ages, Ghent was a rich and powerful city that had the means to commission ever-larger and more opulent churches. So the Church of St John the Baptist was converted during the 15th and 16th centuries into the imposing Gothic St Bavo’s Cathedral. illed with art treasures that make many an art-lover’s mouth water: from the baroque high altar in white, black and red flamed marble, the Rococo pulpit in oak, gilded wood and marble, to a masterpiece by Rubens: Saint Bavo enters the Convent at Ghent, and the Calvary Triptych by Justus van Gent, the Gothic chandelier/sanctuary lamp, the opulent tombs of the Bishops of Ghent – and of course the world-famous Mystic Lamb. Admire the divine glow of ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ by the Van Eyck brothers in St Bavo’s Cathedral. READ MORE ->

Medieval walled city. The architecture of the Old Town is mainly influenced by Venetian Renaissance, although there are some fine examples of 1930’s architecture of old villas out of the Old Town, in the bay of Luka Korculanska (Kalac)... READ MORE ->

Motovun is spectacular. You have a view of the hills and vineyards that make the reputation of Motovun, a high-perched village with a tradition of very good wine and food. Motovun is one of the most visited places in Croatia. Many people come here to enjoy truffles, in the hills.

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Motovun is a medieval hilltop town located in the Istria region of Croatia. It is known for its stunning location, rich history, and well-preserved architecture. The town is situated on a 277-meter-high hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Motovun is famous for its imposing city walls, which encircle the old town and date back to the 13th century. The walls are remarkably well-preserved and provide a glimpse into the town's medieval past. Visitors can walk along the walls and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the Istrian landscape.

Another notable landmark in Motovun is the Church of St. Stephen, a Romanesque-Gothic structure that dominates the town's skyline. The church houses valuable frescoes and religious artifacts, making it a popular destination for art and history enthusiasts.

Motovun is also renowned for its truffle hunting tradition. The surrounding forests are home to the elusive Istrian truffle, a highly prized delicacy. Visitors can join truffle hunting tours and experience the thrill of searching for these aromatic treasures with trained dogs.

The town hosts an annual film festival, known as the Motovun Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinephiles from around the world. The festival showcases a diverse selection of independent films and serves as a cultural hub for film enthusiasts.

Motovun's charming cobbled streets are lined with traditional stone houses, art galleries, and local craft shops. The town's vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its stunning natural surroundings, makes it a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique and authentic Croatian experience.

A unique fossil of a pre-historic reptile, a splendid diorama room with native birds and an unbelievably cool interactive exhibition with thousands of rocks and minerals. The House is a museum where your children will uncover one surprise after another. READ MORE ->

Soaring, gothic cathedral dating to 11th century, plus Bishop's palace with a crown jewels exhibit. -Google.

The largest medieval building in Scandinavia and the most important church in Norway. Since its foundation in 1066 it has been an important pilgrimage destination, thanks to its relics of St. Olav, a Norwegian king and national hero.

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Family attraction by the waterfront depicting market day in a scaled-down town with a train line. -Google.

10 mile loop of stunning views of Chapel Rock, Chapel Falls, and Chapel Beach. May be the best loop to day hike in Michigan. The trail loop from Mosquito Beach to Chapel Rock takes hikers through woods, to the edge of cliffs, and to the bottom of beaches along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The trail head begins inland and contains a 10.4 mile loop to numerous locations and viewing areas. The cliffs tower to heights hundreds of feet high over Lake Superior. READ MORE -> This 10.4 mile loop passes 2 waterfalls and the middle segment follows the famous Lakeshore Trail along the top of the Pictured Rocks Cliffs for 4.4 miles. This section of the Lakeshore Trail offers a spectacular view almost every step of the way, but you must also watch your step because at times you are only a few feet from the edge of the sandstone cliffs. This hike can also be turned into an easy overnight outing by staying at the backcounty campgrounds located by Chapel Beach or Mosquito Beach. READ MORE ->

Sovana is a one street town with an intriguing Romanesque Cathedral. A stone’s throw from the most impressive Etruscan necropolis in Tuscany, Italy. It’s one of the most picturesque villages in the region. It’s one of the tufa ( a variety of limestone) towns and highlights of the Maremma. READ MORE ->

The heart of the Complex is the Church of San Francesco, with the splendid frescoes painted by Benozzo Gozzoli, author of the decorations contained in the chapel of San Girolamo and in the apse. The Scenes from the life of St. Francis (1542) are to be counted among the most important well-maintained painting of the cycles of the Renaissance. The Complex also includes the picture gallery, the ancient wine cellars of the Franciscan Convent, the archaeological findings and marble gravestone fragments of various ages which are reunited in the Crypt and spaces dedicated to contemporary art exhibition. READ MORE ->

hanks to the enchanting geographical position (on top of a 473 metres hill, among the valleys of Clitunno, Topino and Tevere), Montefalco has been defined 'the Umbrian railing'. A landmark for hilly landscapes, trekking, biking and outdoor life lovers. Its name used to be Coccorone during the Middle Ages: according to the legend the toponym derived from its presumed founder, the senator Marco Curione; on the contrary, modern historians think it derived from the Ancient Greek 'oros', mount. Suddenly, between the end of 1249 and 1250, this charming place got the name of Montefalco, probably from one of the hawks (falco, in Italian) of the emperor Frederik Barbarossa, that stayed in Coccorone from the 9th to the 13th of February 1240. Montefalco is famous for the astonishing frescoes of its churches: this lovely village is indeed one of the essential points of interest for a basic knowledge of the traditional Umbrian painting. READ MORE ->

Atrani won’t be the first place which comes to mind when you think of Italian beach resorts. But it is the place you should visit if you want to find out what Italy is truly all about. Even though Atrani is just a short drive away from Amalfi, the famous and bustling holiday spot, it remains unspoiled by mass tourism and is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Atrani is a coastal fishing village with a population of less than one thousand. It nestles in the divide of two steep cliffs on the shore of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its tier upon tier of multi-colored houses rises above a beautiful stretch of pristine sand. It is one of the most idyllic and picturesque settings in Italy.

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Atrani is a charming village located on the Amalfi Coast in the Campania region of Italy. It is situated just a short distance from the famous Cattedrale di Amalfi and the Chiostro del Paradiso

Atrani is known for its picturesque setting, with colorful houses built into the cliffs overlooking the sparkling blue sea. The village is small and compact, with narrow streets and alleyways that wind through the town. It offers a tranquil and authentic experience, away from the crowds of nearby Amalfi

One of the main attractions in Atrani is its beautiful beach, which is considered one of the best on the Amalfi Coast. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and offers stunning views of the coastline. It is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing

The village also has some notable landmarks, including the Church of San Salvatore de' Birecto. This medieval church features a distinctive bell tower and beautiful frescoes. Another landmark is the Torre dello Ziro, a medieval watchtower that offers panoramic views of the coast

Atrani is also known for its traditional festivals and events. One of the most famous is the Festival of Santa Maria Maddalena, which takes place in July. During the festival, the village comes alive with music, processions, and fireworks, attracting visitors from near and far

In terms of dining and cuisine, Atrani offers a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy delicious Italian dishes. From fresh seafood to traditional pasta dishes, you can indulge in the flavors of the region

Overall, Atrani is a hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast, offering a peaceful and authentic experience.

Located just east of Castelmezzano, this picturesque hilltop town is classed as one of the most beautiful towns in all of Basilicata, and also the highest. Pietrapertosa, the ancient Pietraperciata (i.e. perforated stone, for a large rock knocked down from side to side) seems to have arisen in the VIII century b.c. by the Pelasgi. The Pelasgi remained until the arrival of the Greeks, that from the coast is pushed toward the inside to bring their goods and their manufactured articles. Gave a new form to the village: the sistemarono to amphitheater at the foot of the rocks, well sheltered from three sides, widening the defensive system created by the Pelasgi. At the time of the invasions of Hannibal, Pietrapertosa came the Romans, drove out the Greeks and did the country their Curtis and their Oppidum. READ MORE ->

Known as the city of 44 churches – around every corner there seems to be another place to pray. These days they aren’t very busy with worshippers but it is worth visiting at least one or two of their number even if it is just to savour the architecture. San Vito, situated on the edge of town, is the oldest and dates back to 11th and 12th centuries with 15th-century frescoes and a 19th-century campanile. In the centre you will certainly notice the Church of the Annunciation on Via San Pietro, its doorway flanked by a pair of ancient stone lions and an obelisk bearing a statue of San Biagio. READ MORE ->

Theme park, the largest in Italy, with roller coasters & water & family rides, plus laser gun attraction & live shows. -Google. READ MORE ->

Constructed in 1318 in Ligurian gothic style by the Maestri Antelami, the church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia rose on a pre-existing XI century building. It was built on a rock in front of the sea, with an impressive 40 meters belfry adorned by a pointed shape dome. It has three aisles and was widened in the XVI and XVII century. According to the tradition, the church was built because a wooden box with the bones of Saint Margaret was found on the beach. READ MORE ->

Romanesque church & cloister with dozens of frescoes dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries. -Google. One of the most suggestive churches of the city of Genoa is indeed Santa Maria di Castello, located in the most ancient part of the city. Together the Romanesque basilica, its convent and the museum shape a monumental complex of extraordinary importance. The Romanesque architecture and the priceless works of art surely give this site a certain splendour, but what makes it really unique is the fact that it rises in the first urban settlement of the city, just above the natural shelter of the coast. In 658 the Langobardic king Ariperto might have built a first sanctuary, reconstructed by di Antelami’s craftsmen in the first quarter of the 12th century as a Romanesque basilica. After the first half of the 15th century the church was handed to the Dominicans and became a point of reference for humanists and writers; meanwhile thanks to acquisitions and demolitions, the convent continued to grow and in the middle of the 16th century already had three cloisters. READ MORE ->

National Gallery in absolutely magnificent palace and museum Peter Paul Rubens included an etching of the façade in the volume ‘The Mansions of Genoa’ which he published in Antwerp in 1622. Constructed in 1593 as per the will of Francesco Grimaldi on the pre-existent Medieval foundations. Hidden in the heart of the ancient city, this is an easy Palazzo to miss. One of the best Genovese museums, five floors of this massive palace is dedicated to the history and splendor of Genoa—the first three being the restored palace of the Spinola family, and the top two serving as the National Gallery. Explore beautiful frescoes, ceramics from the 1700s, actual clothing from the 15th century, and an original Rubens, among the many other varied treasures. READ MORE ->

Children's museum. Science & technology center for children aged 2 to 12, with interactive, educational exhibits. -Google.

Portovenere, a Riviera gem overlooking the Gulf of La Spezia, more romantically known as the Golfo dei Poeti for all the literary figures who came to swoon over the area’s astounding natural beauty. Portovenere is a little medieval town in Liguria Italy just a stone’s throw away from the famous Cinque Terre. It is one of the most beautiful places on the west coast of Italy. Striped church of San Pietro as well as San Lorenzo Church are among some of the town’s artifacts. Porto Venere, once frequented by English poet George Byron The cove of Grotta Byron is said to have been the spot where the Romantic poet composed the ‘Corsair.’

Hidden Gem, quiet, authentic Italian village, a place where you can eat a whole pizza, practice a few words of Italian, and sneak away for some quiet after a day spent in the bustling cliff-top towns of the Cinque Terre just 20 minutes away by bus. From Biassa, which sits in the hills at about 1,500 feet above sea level, you can see all the way down to the port town of La Spezia with its busy harbor. Pretty terra cotta rooftops and lush hunter green forest surround you, spreading across and around Biassa up and down the mountain. An old, lone church tower reaches above the town, chiming its bells for mass. READ MORE ->

e of the most ancient medieval towns of the Umbria region, as witnessed by the Tables of Gubbio (Tavole Eugubine). These are seven bronze tablets recovered in the XVV century, written in the Umbrian language and containing information on the uses and customs of this beautiful city. It is a place rich in history, culture, art and age-old traditions. READ MORE ->

heltered on a cliff of volcanic rock, which dominates the spring of the Fiora river, the village of Santa Fiora has a different history unlike the other centres of the Amiata region. Indeed, the village was not subject to the rule of the Abbey of Santissimo Salvatore, but soon became the most important Amiata property of the Aldobrandeschi family, enduring numerous occupation attempts by the Sienese. In 1439, its ownership passed on to the Sforza family, before being taken over by Florentine rule in 1633. Read the story of Santa Fiora on logo toscana ovunque bella Santa Fiora - Perfumes, sounds, freshwater and memories of an illustrious past - Tuscany, Beautiful Everywhere Santa Fiora Perfumes, sounds, freshwater and memories of an illustrious past Santa Fiora: where nature embraces one of the most beautiful towns in Italy.Read the story Once arrived at Santa Fiora, the traveller’s attention is instantly drawn to the imposing Palazzo del Conte, formerly the Sforza Cesarini residence, and now the offices of the town hall. The palazzo houses the intriguing Monte Amiata Mercury Mining Museum, dedicated to the history and techniques of mercury extraction ... READ MORE ->

Orvieto is one of the most striking, memorable, and enjoyable hill towns in central Italy. Less than 90 minutes from Rome, Orvieto sits majestically high above the valley floor atop a big chunk of tufo volcanic stone, overlooking cypress-dotted Umbrian plains. A visit here will reward you with a delightful, perfectly preserved, and virtually traffic-free world highlighted by a colorful-inside-and-out cathedral and some of Italy's best wine. READ MORE ->

A tiny burg perched on a hill overlooked by a castle built around the year 1000. The surrounding countryside is scattered with thermal springs and Etruscan necropolis. It is the place where one can experience breath-taking views from anywhere. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, which we know thanks to remarkable archaeological evidence from the Neolithic period found in the Grotta dell’Orso. The presence of the Etruscans, who lived in Sarteano from the 1st to the 9th century BCE, was very important. In fact, in Sarteano there are some of the most esteemed Etruscan tombs in Tuscany, including the Quadriga Infernale, where there are arguably some of the best-conserved frescoes from that civilization. READ MORE ->

Volterra is a charming hill town situated in the province of Pisa, not far from Florence, Siena, and the coast as well. It is well known for its Etruscan origins and for the many remains belonging to this era. Velathri, the Etruscan name of the town, was one of the twelve main towns that belonged to the Etruscan confederation; at the end of the 4th century BC, the 7300 meters long fortification walls were built up to protect not only the urban center but also the surrounding fountains, cultivated fields, and pastures from foreign invasions. After the Frankish and Lombard dominions, Volterra passed under Roman control and changed its name into Volaterrae (where the modern name comes from); later, it fell under Florentine supremacy until the town passed under the Grand Duchy of Tuscany before finally becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860. READ MORE ->

Populonia is an ancient and extremely important Etruscan city; it is one of the 12 cities which make up the so-called Dodecapoli, the city-states which were part of Etruria, governed by a lucumone (similar to a king). The legacy of its illustrious past is still seen today in its small centre. Previously known as Fufluna (from Fufluns, the Etruscan god of drunkenness) or Pupluna, it was the only Etruscan city found on the coastline. READ MORE ->

One of the most famous monasteries in Romania. Early 16th-century monastery & church housing numerous early icons, religious artworks & crypts. -Google. The burial place of Kings Carol the 1st and Ferdinand and Queens Elisabeta and Maria. Built 500 years ago by the medieval Prince Neagoe Basarab, the church was from the beginning a key religious landmark in Southern Romania given the use of expensive and rare materials and the hand-carved decorations inspired not only from the Byzantine tradition but also from the Ottoman world. The consecration ceremony from 1517 highlighted the importance of the edifice, so high that the patriarch of Constantinople and many representatives of the monasteries from Mount Athos attended the event. The following centuries proved, however, to be harsh on the monastery. A series of fires, earthquakes, and attacks seriously damaged the church that also served as a necropolis for its medieval founder and descendants. It was partly restored by Princes Matei Basarab and Serban Cantacuzino, but it’s the first king of Romania, Carol the 1st of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen (1866-1914) who decided and completed the amplest renovation work. The Monastery of Curtea de Arges is at the center of a very popular Romanian legend. The story is that one of the main constructors, Manole, saw all his day work destroyed during the night. In the end, he could only finalize the work by sacrificing his wife, placing her inside the walls of the church even if that meant her death. The name of the main character seems to be the only real part of this dramatic legend as the 16th century chief of construction was the Armenian Manoli from Niasia. READ MORE ->

The Old Town of Graz to be a World Cultural Heritage site. Fortifications on the city mountain date back to the 11th century. The inner city is full of narrow, romantic streets in which Italian-style palazzi and impressive public halls vie for the attention of passers-by, without making a show of the cool beauty of their courtyards and other well-kept secrets. What makes Graz especially exciting is the combination of these historic treasures with truly stunning modern architecture like the Kunsthaus Graz, which beautifully reflects the Old Town in its façade. Students from the city’s four universities enjoy the many street cafes, which lend the city an almost Mediterranean flair. Art galleries, great shopping, innovative- as well as excellent traditional restaurants, and a busy event calendar ensure that the city stays young at heart. READ MORE ->

Aveiro is a charming city that is famed for its canals, Nouveau architecture and colourful Moliceiros boats. Unhurried, traditional Portuguese city, which has canals and colourful boats (but not gondolas!). The Romans were the first to identify the potential of Aveiro as a harbour, considering the city as the best-sheltered harbour on the western side of the Iberian Peninsula. Up until the mid-16th century, Aveiro was an important harbour and prosperous city, with a major fishing fleet and significant sea trade. This all changed in 1575 after an incredible powerful winter storm dredged up the seabed, forming a sandbank along the mouth of the harbour and blocking the port to create the Ria de Aveiro lagoons. Along with losing all of the trade routes, the stagnant lagoon breed diseases which ravaged the population (This went from 30,000 to less than 5,000 20 years later). READ MORE ->

The most easterly town in Germany and for many the most beautiful. Perhaps not surprising when you consider the town has over 3,500 architectural monuments spanning 500 years. READ MORE -> Görlitz is first recorded back in 1071. The city grew at the intersection of Europe's oldest and most important trade routes, the Via Regia which connected Kiev to Santiago de Compostela, and the Salt Road which linked Prague to the Baltic Sea. With its late Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and art nouveau buildings, Görlitz is considered an integrated architectural work of art, and fortunately, the city was not destroyed during the Second World War. In particular the buildings in the historic city centre never fail to fascinate with the richly decorated fasades, artful arches and frescoed ceilings from different epochs. READ MORE ->

The Brulsche Terrasse ('Bruhl Terrace') is a famous architectural complex in Dresden, Germany, built from 1738 to 1739 by the count of Heinrich von Bruhl (1700 and 1763) on the remains of the ancient city fortifications. It is defined for its panoramic position along the Elbe River, the 'Balcony of Europe', a definition coined by Goethe. READ MORE -> Brühl Terrace is one of the most popular places in Dresden. The terraced promenade offers some beautiful architecture combined with magnificent views over the Elbe river. The terrace was originally part of ramparts built to protect the city. Between 1739 and 1748 count Henrich von Brühl, a powerful minister under King Augustus the Strong, transformed the ramparts into a terraced garden for his palace. Goethe gave it the name 'Balcony of Europe'. In 1814, after a monumental staircase was built connecting the Schlossplatz with the terrace, the gardens were opened to the public. The staircase is flanked by four bronze sculptures, each symbolizing one season. READ MORE ->

Originally built in 1841, this hall was rebuilt by the original architect after a fire in 1869. -Google.

Dresden’s Semper Opera House is the most famous opera house in Germany; it houses the Saxon State Orchestra, one of the world’s oldest and best-known orchestras.

Built by Gottfried Semper between 1838 and 1841, the Semper Opera House was closed in August 1944 and was destroyed six months later by the Allied air attacks.

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Large, 14th-century city defensive wall with towers-turned-museums offering scenic views. -Google. Portion of the wall connecting Nunna, Sauna and Kuldjala towers. Work on the town's defences first began in 1265, but the current outline of the wall dates to the 14th century. By its heyday in the 16th century, the wall was 2.4 km long, 14 to 16 metres high, up to three metres thick, and included 46 towers. Today roughly half of the original towers still loom over Old Town. READ MORE ->

This beach on Graciosa is home to the only red sand on the island. It’s nearby to the famous black and white striped lighthouse of Graciosa.

The natural pools of Carapacho are located in the southeast of the island of Graciosa, among black basalt rocks whose beautiful shapes are in sharp contrast with the blue of the sea. With good support facilities, it is a greatly appreciated recreation area, right next to the Carapacho Thermal Spa. READ MORE ->

The beautiful Almoxarife Beach is located on the small rural village with the same name. Gray volcanic sands offer with fantastic view of Pico Volcano across the water.

Porto Pim is Horta’s second bay, formed when the lava from Monte da Guia volcano created a land bridge to Faial Island. The bay has a fine-sand beach, and is home to an 18th-century military fort and many excellent waterfront restaurants and bars. The curved south-facing shape of the bay guarantees warm and windless summer afternoons. READ MORE ->

Dramatic, 14th-century castle, former royal residence & alleged legend of Count Dracula inspiration. -Google. Surrounded by an aura of mystery and legend and perched high atop a 200-foot-high rock, Bran Castle owes its fame to its imposing towers and turrets as well as to the myth created around Bram Stocker's Dracula. Built on the site of a Teutonic Knights stronghold dating from 1212, the castle was first documented in an act issued by Louis I of Hungary on November 19, 1377, giving the Saxons of Kronstadt (Brasov) the privilege to build the Citadel. Bran (Dracula Castle) RomaniaAlthough Stoker never visited Transylvania, the Irish author relied on research and his vivid imagination to create the dark and intimidating stomping ground of Count Dracula, leading to persistent myths that it was once the home of Vlad Tepes, ruler of Walachia. While the association with Dracula is sketchy at best, the castle continues to hold a strong attraction for all fans of the Count. READ MORE ->

It is a natural impounded lake and it is situated in the foothills of Murovdag, not far from Ganja. Due to an earthquake which hit the area on 25 September 1139, parts of the Kapaz Mount collapsed and blocked the path of the Kür?kçay River. As a result of the diversion of water flow, a lake with pure mountain water was created, hence the name given signifying the pureness of the water. READ MORE ->

A 10-meter long wall of fire continuously burns alongside the edge of the hill. This makes for the most spectacular view, especially at night. The air around this open fireplace is always thick with the smell of gas. The heavy Absheron wind, twisting the flames into bizarre shapes, adds to the mystery of the region. Tongues of fire also rise from the surface of the streams located around the hill. These streams are called Yanar Bulaq, or ‘Burning Spring’. READ MORE ->

It is the first largest Urartian military-strategic center, which occupied the territory of Aza land of Ararat valley. Until the first half of the 20th century the territory of Erebuni was not known. Only in 1950 during the exploration of Arin Berd monument, a constructing inscription of Argishti the First was found. After deciphering it turned out to be the confirmation of the construction of Erebuni fortress. The inscription says: «To (God) Haldie, the Lord, this house, did Argishti, son of Menua, built this splendid fortress and named it Erebini, Strength to Biainili (country), Obedience to enemy (country). With the greatness of Haldie (God), Argishti, son of Menua, powerful king, king of Biainili (country), ruler of Tushpa city». As it is illustrated in the inscription, Yerevan used to be called Erebuni, which later transformed into Irpuni, Erivuni, Erivan and Yerevan. READ MORE ->

The monastic complex of the 11 th – 13 th centuries, Haghartsin. It is the canyon's jewel, one of the most mysterious places in Armenia , buried in the verdure of mountain woods. The territory of the medieval monastery is vast and is occupied by St. Gregory church (11 th century), St. Astvatsatsin church (1281), St. Stepanos church (1244), the 13 th – century chapel, the tomb of Bagratids (12 th century), the refectory (1248) and various premises built in the 12 th – 13 th centuries. READ MORE ->

The mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Etchmiadzin Cathedral is one of the most significant and breathtaking pieces of Armenian architecture. The church was built in 301-303, by the Armenian king Tiridates III (Ardaxiad or Artashesyan dynasty of Armenia). The Cathedral was founded near the Artashesyans’ royal palace, in the capital city of Vagharshapat. Armenia, under the reign of Tiridates, became the first country, adopting Christianity as a state religion in 301. According to the 5th century’s Armenian historians, Saint Gregory the Illuminator had a vision of Jesus Christ, descending from heaven and striking the earth with a golden hammer to show where the cathedral should be built. Gregory the Illuminator named the church ”Etchmiadzin” which means “the Descent of the Only-Begotten”. After that, Armenian people continued to call the Etchmiadzin Cathedral “Cathedral of Vagarshapat” or “Katoghike”. Since the 15th century, the name ”Etchmiadzin” has been used more frequently. READ MORE ->

Expansive, freshwater lake offering sand beaches, a medieval monastery & lots of outdoor recreation.-Google. The lake consists of Minor Sevan and Major Sevan. Minor Sevan is deeper, while Major Sevan is shallower. There is an apparent age difference between the two; the first is only 100,000 years old, while the second is one million years old.

Gonio fortress is a well preserved Roman fortification in Ajara, on the Black sea coast. Located on the left bank of the River Chorokhi - the fortress is 12 km south of Batumi and just 4 km from the border with Turkey. The site is believed to hold the tomb of the Apostle Mathew – one of Christ’s disciples – but has yet to be fully excavated. READ MORE ->

Expansive botanical subtropical garden, founded in 1912. The Batumi Botanical Garden overlooks the Black Sea and is one the largest and richest botanical gardens in the world.

The conversion of Georgia (Iberia) is closely connected with the Cappadocian virgin and Equal-to-the-Apostles St. Nina, who brought together the Georgian people and led them to God. The blackberry bush where St. Nina preached Christianity leading to Christianity being declared the state religion in 324 in the days of the holy King Mirian and Queen Nana, is located in this place. READ MORE ->

Alaverdi St. George Cathedral (first half of the 11th century) is located 18 km from the town of Telavi in the Alazani-River valley. Earliest structures of Alaverdi Monastery date back to 6th century. The present day Cathedral is part of an 11th century Georgian Orthodox monastery. The Monastery was founded by the monk Joseph [Abba] Alaverdeli, who came from Antioch and settled in Alaverdi, then a small village and the former pagan religious centre dedicated to Moon. At the beginning of 11th century, Kakhetian King Kvirike the Great built a cathedral in the place of a small church of St. George.

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It is one of the most important and largest religious complexes in the country and holds great historical and cultural significance.

History:

The Alaverdi Monastery was founded in the 6th century by the Assyrian monk Joseph Alaverdeli, who arrived in Georgia to spread Christianity. The original church, dedicated to St. George, was constructed on the site of a pagan temple. Over the centuries, the monastery went through several phases of expansion and renovations.

The monastery played a crucial role in the spiritual and cultural life of Georgia. It served as the residence of the Kakhetian bishops and was a center for religious education, manuscript copying, and artistic activities. The complex also provided shelter for travelers and pilgrims, offering a place of rest and spiritual guidance.

Description:

The Alaverdi Monastery is a magnificent example of medieval Georgian architecture, combining elements of Byzantine, Persian, and Armenian styles. The complex is surrounded by high walls and includes several structures of religious and secular importance.

The main attraction of the monastery is the Alaverdi Cathedral, which dominates the complex with its grandeur. The cathedral, constructed in the 11th century, is one of the tallest religious buildings in Georgia, reaching a height of about 50 meters (165 feet). It features intricate stone carvings, beautiful frescoes, and a dome that is visible from afar.

Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire the medieval religious art and the stunning iconostasis, a decorative screen adorned with religious icons. The cathedral also houses the tomb of St. Joseph Alaverdeli, the founder of the monastery.

Apart from the cathedral, the Alaverdi Monastery complex includes a bell tower, a bishop's residence, a refectory, and other auxiliary buildings. The exterior walls are fortified, reflecting the need for protection during turbulent times.

The surrounding landscape adds to the beauty and tranquility of the monastery. It is situated in the Alazani Valley, surrounded by lush vineyards and picturesque mountains, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Today, the Alaverdi Monastery continues to serve as a functioning religious institution, attracting both pilgrims and tourists alike. It is considered a must-visit destination for its historical, architectural, and spiritual significance, offering visitors a glimpse into Georgia's rich cultural heritage.

Medieval Capital of the Kingdom of Kakheti.

Grand 16th-century church & castle complex with a museum in its bell tower & scenic views.-Google.

Standing above the green valley of Alazan, Gremi attracts travelers whose road goes between Telavi and Kvareli. Gloomy and monumental, the castle is the one of the most visited tourist points in Georgia. The architectural ensemble of Gremi in the look that it has up to present day was built in the 16th century in the times of King Levan of Kakheti, who announced Gremi the capital of the Kingdom of Kakheti. By order of Levan, a castle and churches were constructed on a small mountain and a rich trading town appeared at the foot of the mountain with a population of over 100 000 people.

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The Gremi Citadel and Church, located in the Kakheti region of Georgia, is a historic site that dates back to the 16th century. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Kakheti and played a significant role in the region's history.

The construction of the Gremi Citadel began in the 1560s under the rule of King Levan of Kakheti. It was designed as a defensive fortress to protect the kingdom from invasions. The citadel was built on a hill overlooking the surrounding plains, providing a strategic advantage in terms of defense.

The complex of Gremi Citadel consisted of several structures, including a tower, a palace, a bathhouse, and the Church of the Archangels. The tower, known as the 'Shekvetili,' was the tallest structure in the citadel and served as a lookout point and a symbol of power.

The Church of the Archangels, located within the citadel, is a notable architectural masterpiece. It features intricate stone carvings, vibrant frescoes, and a distinctive bell tower. The church served as the main place of worship for the residents of Gremi.

During its heyday, Gremi was a flourishing trade and cultural center, attracting merchants and travelers from all over the region. However, the city faced numerous invasions and attacks throughout its history. In the early 17th century (in 1614), Gremi was devastated by the armies of Shah Abbas I of Persia, leading to the decline of the kingdom.

Today, the Gremi Citadel and Church stand as a testament to Georgia's rich history. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the citadel, including the church, tower, and other structures. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, providing a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.

The oldest church in Tbilisi, dating back to the sixth century. Dating from the 6th century by the king of Iberia, Dachi Ujarmeli, the church stands proudly as a testament to Georgia’s long history. READ MORE -> Its design differs from the typical later temples. There are magnificent frescoes inside, some dating back almost 400 years. According to the historical sources it was constructed by Dachi Ujarmeli ( from Ujarma) and it was bearing the name of the Virgin Mary’s birth. The name Anchiskhati was given to it a little bit later, when Peter Meskhi moved the image of Christ not made by hand from the Anchi church to this one in 1675, Peter was granted the position of a pastor by the Catholicon Domenti. From this day on the Meskhishvilis were pastors of the church. The son of Peter- Alex is the founder of the calligraphers’ dynasty called the Aleximaskhishvilis. READ MORE ->