GeorgiaOfficial tourism
Armazi

Where pagan kings once ruled Iberia

Armazi

Why go

Armazi commands the heights above Mtskheta, the ancient capital of eastern Georgia's kingdom of Iberia. Here, archaeologists have unearthed the remains of a pagan temple complex and royal tombs dating from the 3rd century BC to the 4th century AD, when Iberian kings worshipped before Christianity arrived in 337 AD. The site preserves stone foundations of a citadel and temple terrace built by King Pharnavaz I, alongside richly furnished tombs that yielded gold, silver, and Roman glass—tangible proof of Iberia's wealth and Mediterranean connections. The location matters: Armazi guarded the strategic Aragvi River gorge where trade routes converged, making this not mere ruins but the political heart of early Georgia.

On the ground See

  • The exposed stone foundations of the Armazi citadel and pagan temple terrace on the ridge above the Mtkvari River
  • The remains of royal burial chambers where excavations in the 1940s-50s revealed gold jewelry, engraved gemstones, and imported Roman artifacts
  • The dramatic view from the ridge over the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, with Mtskheta's churches visible below

Practical Know before you go

Visit April-October; the unmarked trail climbs steeply from the Mtskheta-Armazi road about 2 km north of town—wear sturdy shoes and bring water as there are no facilities on site.

Last reviewed 25 August 2026 · reviewed quarterly