The best opportunity to discover Georgia differently, visit the Astronomy Observatory and explore the beauty of the Universe. We'll visit one of the world’s oldest observatories, founded in the early 30-ies, and see breathtaking landscapes and the crystal-clear night sky with its high mountains and super fresh air.
The history of Abastumani Observatory dates back to the 19th century. It is associated with a brother of Russian Emperor Nikolai II, Grand Duke Giorgi Alexandrovich, and a famous Russian astronomer Professor Sergei Glazenapp who set up a temporary observatory there, where in 1932, the Georgian National Astrophysical Observatory was founded as the first mountainous astrophysical observatory in the former Soviet Union. The observatory is located 250 km west of Tbilisi, on Mount Kanobili, at 1700 meters above sea level.
Town Abastumani is one of the best mountain resorts in Georgia; besides the observatory, it is famous for its balneology and climatic mountain resort features, with its thermal waters and surrounded by Pine forests.
Arrive at Tbilisi international airport and our driver will take you to the hotel in Tbilisi.
Overnight in Tbilisi
After breakfast start city tour. Sites to visit: Trinity Church in Avlabari district; Metekhi church with picturesque view on the old town and modern park with Bridge of Peace; Narikala fortress – the oldest defensive building from 4th century; Sulfur bathes district “Abanotubani” – the unique social meeting point from the past; Meidan square full by souvenir shops and cafes and restaurants; Chardeni street – small street full by cafes and restaurants, name in honor of famous French traveler Jean Chardin who traveled in Georgia in 17th century and described it in his book; Sioni and Anchiskhati churches; Liberty square and Rustaveli avenue - 19th century modern architecture; Visit Georgian Museum of Fine Arts. (The treasury preserves and presents works from the Bronze Age, Antic-Hellenistic, and medieval periods, as well as significant modern artifacts up through the 20th century).
Overnight in Tbilisi
After breakfast you will travel to ancient capital city Mtskheta, here you will visit UNESCO world heritage sites: Jvari monastery (VI century), where you will enjoy the view on the beautiful landscape from the top of the hill and Svetitskhoveli cathedral (XI century). You will continue the way till Akhaltsikhe city, here you will visit main historical attraction – Rabati fortress, huge places which is the mix of different culture and once it was Ottomans main city.
At last you will arrive at Abastumani and will visit Georgian National Astrophysical Observatory. At observatory, you will learn about its history and scientific achievements at the observatory museum and visit its professional telescopes such as 125-cm Reflector, 70-cm Meniscus Telescope, 40-cm Double Astrograph, 44-cm Schmidt Telescope, and 48-cm Reflector. Afterwards, before a dinner, you will have an opportunity to wander around the observatory territory with your guide to take photos and enjoy its picturesque landscape. Later, in the evening, a resident astronomer will give share with you basic concepts of the universe, the Milky Way, important stars, and solar system and explain what you will able to observe with the naked eye and through the telescope on that night. Later, at night, back to Akhaltsikhe and check in at the hotel.
Overnight in Akhaltsikhe
After breakfast our driver will take you to the airport at departure time
Location:
Accommodation in twin / double rooms
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