Tskaltsitela Gorge Natural Monument, Protected natural area in Imereti region, Georgia.
Tskaltsitela Gorge is a protected natural monument in the Imereti region featuring steep limestone cliffs that rise above a winding river, creating deep valleys within the karst landscape. The site contains a network of caves embedded in the rock walls, adding to the dramatic character of the terrain.
Human settlements in this area date back approximately 50,000 years, with archaeological findings showing sustained occupation across vast time periods. The caves served as dwelling spaces and left material traces from multiple cultures over thousands of years.
The caves in this gorge have been gathering places for human communities across many periods, with objects found inside telling stories of different times. For people in the region, these locations create a connection between the distant past and life today.
Access to the site is available from the village of Tsutskhvati, where marked trails lead into the gorge and guided walks are offered during daylight. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and prepare for uneven terrain, as paths cross through rocky karst landscape.
The caves are home to several bat species that hunt in darkness and rest in rock crevices during the day. These bats are specially adapted to underground conditions and play an important role in the local ecosystem.
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