Shio's cave
A sixth-century hermit.
Alexey Komarov — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Alexey Komarov — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Alexey Komarov — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Iza turqadze — CC BY-SA 4.0 · This work is created by George Melashvili. You can redistribute it or modify it under the terms of the terms of Cc-by-sa-3.0 (See below) — CC BY-SA 3.0
An old monastery in a narrow rocky gorge west of Mtskheta, founded in the sixth century by the monk Shio, one of the thirteen Syrian fathers who came from Antioch and spread monasticism in Georgia, living as a hermit in a cave in the cliff. Its name means Shio's cave, and the first monks' caves are still carved into the rocks above it. The monastery nestles against a towering limestone cliff; its highlights are the sixth-century stone Church of St John the Baptist, the larger twelfth-century Church of the Virgin, an old monks' refectory, a bell tower and a stone stair climbing to the cave cells. It is quiet and away from the crowds, and monks live here to this day. Entry is free. Modest dress is expected at monasteries: shoulders and knees covered, and women cover their hair; scarves and wraps are usually lent at the gate. Monks may close some areas, so respect the signs. The last stretch of road is narrow through the gorge, so a car or driver is best. It is about a quarter of an hour by car from Mtskheta, so pair it with Samtavro and Svetitskhoveli in one day from Tbilisi.
A sixth-century hermit.
In a quiet gorge.
Sixth and twelfth centuries.
A rocky gorge about 10 km west of Mtskheta
Usually yes: the last stretch is a narrow gorge road without regular public transport.