Sometimes, the most memorable discoveries come when you least expect them. That’s exactly what happened when I stumbled upon the Kavtiskhevi Zoroastrian Temple, a site that left me in awe and filled me with a tinge of regret for not having my drone with me to capture its full grandeur from above.
The story of how I found this remarkable site began with a simple invitation. I had invited a German friend to a nearby fish restaurant, known for its fresh catch and serene atmosphere. After placing our order, we realized we had about 20-25 minutes before the food would be ready. My friend then mentioned a nearby spot—the Kavtiskhevi Zoroastrian Temple—that he thought might be worth a quick visit. With time to spare, we decided to explore the site while our meal was being prepared.
Reaching the Kavtiskhevi Temple was surprisingly easy. A short drive and a brief walk brought us to the ruins, where I was immediately struck by the aura of mystery that surrounded the place. The ruins themselves were more expansive than I had anticipated, with various structures and remnants that hinted at its historical significance. The experience reminded me of visiting the famous Erebuni Fortress in Yerevan, with its ancient stones and the sense of stepping back into a distant past.
However, it wasn’t until I later viewed the location on Google Maps that the true scale of the temple complex hit me. The satellite images revealed an expanse that I simply couldn’t appreciate from the ground. The intricate layout, the strategic positioning of the temple, and the surrounding landscape were all things that a bird’s-eye view could truly capture. It was at that moment I regretted not having my drone with me. Aerial photos would have provided a perspective that few could witness and truly highlighted the temple's grandeur.
The Kavtiskhevi Zoroastrian Temple is a testament to Georgia’s rich and diverse history. Thought to be a site of significant religious and cultural importance, the temple dates back to ancient times, serving as a place of worship for the followers of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions.
Exploring the site, I could see remnants of what was once a thriving temple complex. The main temple, with its solid stone foundations and partially standing walls, gave me a glimpse into the architectural prowess of its builders. Surrounding the temple were other structures, possibly used for religious ceremonies, storage, and communal gatherings. The craftsmanship evident in the stonework and the strategic location of the temple atop a hill spoke volumes about its importance in the past.
While the visit to the Kavtiskhevi Zoroastrian Temple was a spontaneous adventure, it left a lasting impression on me. I couldn't help but think of the photos I could have captured with my drone, images that would have done justice to the site's scale and beauty. Viewing the temple from Google Maps only deepened this regret, as it became clear just how much I missed by not seeing the site from above.
But even without the drone, the experience was invaluable. Discovering such a historical treasure in Georgia reminded me of the countless hidden gems waiting to be explored in this beautiful country. It also taught me a valuable lesson: always be prepared for the unexpected, especially when it comes to capturing the perfect shot.
If you ever find yourself near Kavtiskhevi, I highly recommend taking the time to visit the Zoroastrian Temple. It’s incredibly easy to reach, and the site offers a unique perspective on Georgia’s ancient history that’s reminiscent of the experience at Erebuni Fortress in Yerevan. And if you’re into photography or drone videography, don’t make the same mistake I did—bring your equipment along. The aerial views are sure to be nothing short of spectacular. Just be sure to order your food first at the nearby restaurant, and enjoy this ancient marvel while your meal is being prepared.