For centuries, Akhaltsikhe has been a place of cultural intersection, where East and West met. For centuries, this city was considered the “heart of the Samtskhe Kingdom”, because the Georgian kingdom, Armenian communities, Muslim settlements and Jewish quarters all stood together here. It is this diversity that created the city’s current spirit – tolerance, friendship and mutual respect. Even today, if you walk through the historical district of Akhaltsikhe, you will see an amazing picture: a church, a mosque and a synagogue stand side by side, as if they have been guarding the peace of the city for centuries. Each of them has its own history – stone ornaments of old Meskhetian churches, architectural features of the Turkish period and a unique synagogue, which has been operating since the 19th century. The people of Akhaltsikhe are proud of this cultural diversity. Here, visitors will feel warmth and openness everywhere — locals are happy to tell visitors about their traditions, holidays, and stories that have survived for centuries.
Diversity is not only history, but also a part of today’s life. You will feel the aroma of different cultures in the city — anyone who has been to Akhaltsikhe at least once often says that this city is a testament to how different religions and traditions can create history together. Akhaltsikhe is an example of how diversity is the charm of Georgia.
