Mtskheta, Georgia

Mtskheta is the old pre-christian capital of Georgia. Only half an hours drive from the current capital of Tbilisi it is seen as the spiritual heart of the country and the heart of the town is Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

Mtskheta seen from Jvari, with Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in the centre 

Widely seen as Georgias most beautiful cathedral it was the misfortune of the builder to have his arm cut off after completing it, so he couldn't build a finer one. His arm lives on in a carving set high on the cathedral wall.

Svetitkhovel Cathedral with Jvari on the hillside to the left

Some exterior details of the cathedral.

The unfortunate builders arm

Inside the cathedral.