Sunny day! I live on the hill and the most importantchurch of Kutaisi is just around the corner. This imposing building fm 11th century is overlooking the city. It is Sunday and I was lucky to listen inside to the lovely Georgian chorals. Then I went down to stroll around the city center, where the fountain on the main square in the main attraction.
Why the people do not return the smiles? On the city map (you can get it tn the tourist office near the river bridge) they printed “Kutaisi – city of smile” On the back side of the drama theatre you will find hidden stop of the minibuses going every 3 hours to Gelati Monastery – 7 kms out of the town. I boarded thd one departing at 2 pm. Georgia changes – 14 years ago people were honest. Today the driver is charging 1 lari from the locals, but 2 lari from thd foreigners. But Gelati Monastery is great with excellent frescos inside the main church. I was lucky to be there during the baptising ceremony – very, very interesting! Then I went down to the valley by foot and walk onward on the railway to reach another – more cozy monastery – Motsameta. It is located on the sheer cliff above the river – nice, but much smaller place. Shared taxi took me back to Kutaisi just before the sunset. What a great day!
