Kvemo Kartli

The cuisine of the Kartli region is characterized by an abundance of rich dishes and the widespread use of wheat bread, baked in large cylindrical clay jugs. The baker lights a fire in the bottom of the jug and quickly arranges flat yeast-dough flatbreads on the sides, creating a crispy crust. The following dishes are a must-try in Kartli:

• Vegetable dishes: fresh and prepared with local spices and herbs.
• Creamy dogwood soup with spices: a light and aromatic soup that is an excellent example of local culinary sophistication.
• Kharcho soup: a rich and spicy soup that is one of the most famous Georgian dishes.
• Chakapuli: a spring dish of lamb with various greens that perfectly captures the freshness and flavor of local ingredients.

Kvemo Kartli is a region in eastern Georgia, centered on the city of Rustavi. Rustavi is one of Georgia's newest cities, founded in 1948. The city is renowned for its heavy industry, green parks, and welcoming atmosphere. Kvemo Kartli borders Samtskhe-Javakheti, Shida Kartli, Mtskheta-Mtianeti, Kakheti, and Tbilisi. To the southeast, the region borders Azerbaijan and to the south, Armenia. The region encompasses the historical and geographical provinces of Kvemo Kartli and Trialeti, which are rich in cultural and natural attractions.

Kvemo Kartli comprises six administrative units: Bolnisi, Gardabani, Dmanisi, Tetritskaro, Marneuli, and Tsalka.

The region boasts a diverse landscape, ranging from semi-desert steppes to forests and lakes. The largest rivers in the region are the Mtkvari, Khrami and Algeti.

Kvemo Kartli is a region rich in cultural and natural attractions, offering unique opportunities for travel and discovery.

Begin your journey with a visit to the archaeological site of Dmanisi, where you can immerse yourself in centuries of history and see cultural layers from different eras. Head to the ancient fortified settlement of Samshvilde, an ancient fortress town that impresses with its historical significance and architecture. Don't miss Sioni Bolnisi, one of Georgia's oldest churches, and the Birtvisi Fortress, perched on a rocky cliff.

Kvemo Kartli's natural beauty is also striking. Explore Algeti National Park and Gardabani Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy hiking and magnificent views. Inspiring canyons like Dashbashi are captivating in their beauty, and the multicolored desert of Mravaltskaro is a unique natural phenomenon worth experiencing with your own eyes. For lovers of mountain scenery, Mount Samsar and the Kabeni Waterfalls are ideal, as is Lake Bareti, which enchants with its tranquility and beauty. While traveling through the Khrami Valley, be sure to visit the Khorkhebi Cave, hidden among the mountains and forests.

Each of these places offers unique experiences and opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich culture and nature of Kvemo Kartli.