Betlemi
Betlemi is an ancient cave shrine with monastic cells, cut high on the slope of Kazbek, at an altitude of about 4100 meters. That is, a Christian temple where ordinary pilgrims simply cannot reach without cats and ropes.
The complex dates back to the VI-VII centuries, one of the oldest high-altitude sanctuaries of the Caucasus. According to Georgian chronicles, it was here that the Khevsuras allegedly hid the treasures of Queen Tamara from Tamerlane's army, and once descended to the cave with an iron chain.
In 1948, climbers found a church throne, dishes, a banner of the X-XI centuries and coins of later eras inside. You can get here only within the limits of climbing Kazbek, so without mountaineering training and a guide to Bethlehem again.
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Bethlehem and where is it?
This is an ancient cave-shrine with monastic cells on the slope of the Georgian mountain Kazbek, at an altitude of about 4100 meters. That is, a Christian temple where ordinary pilgrims cannot reach without cats and a rope.
How old is this place?
The cave complex belongs to the VI-VII centuries, and the entrance to the rock is located 350-400 meters from its foot. One of the oldest high mountain sanctuaries of the Caucasus.
What is interesting about it?
According to the Georgian chronicle of Kartlis Tskhovreba, the Khevsuras hid the treasures of Queen Tamara here from Tamerlane's army. In the 18th century, the historian Vakhushti Bagrationi wrote that an iron chain was used to descend to the sanctuary.
What did the researchers find there?
In January 1948, climbers under the leadership of Oleksandra Japaridze discovered a church throne, utensils, a church banner of the X-XI centuries and coins of the XV-XVIII centuries. Nearby - monks' cells and a tombstone.
How to get there?
It's not on the way: it's actually part of the climb to Kazbek, so you shouldn't go there without mountaineering training, equipment and a guide. Rather, it is an object for those who are going to the top anyway.