18. Shio– Mghvime limestone cave complex

Region 3: MTKVARI VALLEY

18. Shio– Mghvime limestone cave complex

Coordinates: 41 o53’ N, 44o40’ E

Altitude: 800– 1091 m. a.s.l.

Climate Mediterranean, reasonably dry. Summers are warm to hot, winters mild. Annual precipitation 800 mm (20 mm in January, 50 mm in April, 50 mm in July, 40 mm in October). Over 30 days with heavy rains per year. 20– 30 days with snow cover. Mean temperature: January/– 1, April/11, July/ 22, October/13. Mean maximum temperature (July) /32 o C.

This site is an old monastery located in a narrow limestone canyon on the northern bank of the river Mtkvari (Kura), about 30 km. from Tbilisi. A spectacular road goes up to an area of dry Mediterranean– type bush, surrounded by vertical limestone walls with caves built by medieval monks. The area has a number of interesting birds and reptiles. A single– day excursion is possible.

Birds There are important watch sites for Egyptian vulture. The vultures nest in ancient monk caves. Other birds to be seen include: A common set of forest bird species, among them are owls (long– eared, scops, and tawny), woodpeckers, wryneck, goshawk, wood pigeon, stock dove, various warblers and other passerine birds. Species typical for bushy Mediterranean landscapes are also common – hoopoe, European bee– eater, rose– coloured starling, various wheatears, shrikes, larks, and buntings.

Other wildlife The most common reptiles are Mediterranean tortoise, European glass lizard, striped and middle lizards, and Caucasian agama. Occasionally, one can see mottled racer, olive racer, four– striped racer, cat– eyed snake, calm eirenis, and blend snake. This is a bushy area with species such as Christ’ s thorn, pomegranate, celtis, oriental hornbeam, and rocky oak.

Other tourist attractions An important monument of VI century, the Shio– Mghvime monastery is an important architectural attraction in the area, along with medieval monk caves.