Gori Packages/Deals & Travel Agents Near Me

Overview

Introduction

An ancient historical site that was besieged by Pompey the Great in 65 BC, Gori is better known in modern times as the birthplace of Josef Stalin. It is located 55 mi/85 km west of Tbilisi.

The town is dominated by the Goris-Tsikhe Fortress (the present structure was rebuilt in medieval times) and by an enormous statue of Stalin in the town square. Climb the hill to the fortress for a good view of the surrounding river valleys. Afterward, be sure to visit Stalin's house, where the dictator was born, and the Stalin Museum behind the house—highlights include his death mask and handwoven carpets with kitschy portraits of the general.

Just southeast of Gori is the abandoned town of Uplis-Tsikhe, carved into the solid stone of a mountainside. Tour the Hall of Queen Tamara and the Three-Naved Cave Basilica.

Another cave complex, located 70 mi/115 km south of Gori (and well worth the drive), is Vardzia, a monastery that originally was made up of more than 3,000 chambers. Nearly 550 have survived wars and earthquakes and can be visited today. Nearby is the convent of Vanis Kvabebi, also housed in caves.

Overview

Introduction

Overview

Introduction

Podgorica, Montenegro, is the capital city as well as a modern metropolis and business center. It is also known for its imports; shopping for Italian goods is a common activity.

Interesting sites in Podgorica include the 16th-century Church of St. George, the 18th-century clock tower, two Roman-era bridges that cross the Ribnica River, the sixth-century Osmanagic's Mosque and numerous monuments. It is also home to many cultural institutions, including the National Theatre of Montenegro, the City Theatre and the Public Institution Museum and Galleries.

South of the city is Skadar Lake, the largest lake in the Balkans and a national park. Northwest of Podgorica, between Danilovgrad and Niksic, you can visit the ancient Ostrog Monastery built into the rocks.

Niksic, which has a Byzantine church and a ruined Turkish fortress, is also an interesting town to visit. Besides cultural attractions, it is home to the Onogost brewery, which has been brewing its Niksicko beer since 1896.

The railroad route northeast from Podgorica to Kolasin passes through the magnificent canyon of Moraca (and a number of tunnels, as well). Kolasin is a popular skiing spot and has a few cultural sites to see, including the Moraca Monastery, famous for its frescoes.