The small town of Sighnaghi (Georgia) with a population of just over two thousand people will not leave indifferent any traveler. This is such a picturesque area that causes only delight, admiration and the desire to always admire the splendor of nature and the creations of human hands.
Bodbe Monastery
The city of Sighnaghi (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 in two kilometers from the city Bodbe nunnery, built in the fourth century. It was built on the site of the grave of St. Nina, who preached Christianity in Georgia. She converted to the Christian faith of the ruling king in those years, Mirian and his wife Nana, as well as many other inhabitants. Therefore, Georgia is rightfully considered a country that was one of the first in the world to adopt Christianity. The monastery was founded by King Mirian. And several centuries later, in 1617, a school opened under him.
It was one of the best educational institutions of those times, where the richest library was located. Unfortunately, with the advent of Soviet power, the monastery was closed. But, fortunately, he did not suffer the fate of many magnificent ancient temples, barbarously destroyed during the reign of the Communists. And in 1995, the monastery reopened its doors.
Church of St. George
What is worth seeing for those who come to Sighnaghi (Georgia)? Another Orthodox shrine is the Church of St. George. Its locals call SurbGevorg. Initially, this church belonged to the Armenians who moved to these parts by order of Heraclius II. The stone temple is distinguished by severe beauty and durability. In the mid-nineteenth century, the cathedral was closed and gradually fell into decay. Only recently, an old building was transferred to the Georgian Orthodox Church. Inside the temple are not only icons, but also the rarest old books. They can be seen by those who visited Sighnaghi.
Georgia, Sighnaghi: Attractions
Citizens have the right to be proud of a well-preserved fortress. The construction of the most powerful citadel began during the reign of the legendary Queen Tamara, that is, the twelfth century.
And finally the fortress was completed during the reign of King Heraclius II in the eighteenth century. The grandiose building covers an area of forty hectares. And today, the bunk walls of the fortress impress with their power. Especially well preserved are the magnificent gates and twenty-eight watchtowers. The stone fortress framed by lush greenery looks luxurious and impressive. There are no words to describe this greatest creation of human hands and human genius against the backdrop of amazing nature.
Like many settlements in Georgia, this town is famous for its wine products. Tourists should definitely visit the Signagi wine cellar under the poetic name “Tears of the Pheasant”. In addition to tasting the finest varieties of wines, live music, a hospitable feast, visitors will find fascinating stories about the history of the creation of a life-giving and ancient drink.
Not far from Sighnaghi is the village of Mirzaani, in which the famous Georgian artist of the twentieth century, Nicolo Pirosmani, was born. Here is a museum dedicated to his life and work. It contains paintings by the great master of painting, a vivid representative of such an artistic style as primitivism.
Particularly impressive is the portrait of Queen Tamara and the painting dedicated to the collection of grapes. The museum has an archaeological exhibition. In addition, exhibitions are constantly held here. About seven years ago, the museum opened the country's first exhibition of works by Picasso.
City Hall
A magnificent example of architecture is the city hall building. 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 ordinary window grilles look impressive, as this is a beautifully crafted openwork forging. Built at the end of the twentieth century, the city hall building blends very organically with the architecture of the old town.
Park "April 9"
Those who came to Sighnaghi (Georgia) must take a photo in the city. And where better to take good pictures? In the center of Sighnaghi is located the park "April 9". It is named after the Independence Day of Georgia, which is celebrated on that day. In addition to luxurious trees, picturesque shrubs, exquisite flowers, emerald grass, the park is unique for its clean and healing alpine air.
City of love
Are you looking for a city of love in Georgia? Sighnaghi locals call it that. Perhaps because it is impossible not to fall in love with this city. It is here that the famous Wedding Palace is located, the orders in which are completely unlike those that exist in other settlements. The beautiful pink building with an open terrace and wide arches leads to a wide staircase surrounded by lanterns.
In this Wedding Palace, you can marry at any time of the day, any day. In addition, those who wish will get married immediately, without any pre-filed in a few days applications. 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 diverse sculptures of the city of Sighnaghi. For example, this is a sophisticated lady with a small child in her arms, an umbrella and a dog. Still interesting is the sculpture of a lanky doctor with an umbrella and a riding bag on a donkey.
Conclusion
Now you know what is interesting about the town of Sighnaghi, Georgia. Attractions deserve the attention of every tourist. There are a lot of them in the city, so you need to think through the travel route.