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Kakheti, the heart of the wine region, has a rich history and is home to hundreds of historical and architectural monuments. Among these are the splendid Alaverdi Cathedral (11th Cent.), the Shuamta Monastery (7th Cent.), the Gremi Church (16th Cent.) and the medieval academy in Ikalto (13th Cent.), which was founded here to become a leading centre of enlightenment and scholarship in feudal Georgia. According to legend, Shota Rustaveli, the famous Georgian poet, studied here. Its centre Telavi, spread out over the foothills and along the wooded slopes of the Gomborsky Range, became the capital of Kakheti after Gremi was devastated by the Persians. To the north, situated in the eastern part of the Great Caucasus Range, Tusheti province with its forested and snow-capped mountains, charming historic villages and original architecture is among the top destinations for hikers and adventurers. |
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