packing4two

During our journey from Tbilisi, we made a brief 15-minute stop at Zhinvali Reservoir in Georgia's Mtskheta-Mtianeti region. This popular tourist stop is about 70 kilometers from Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Road.

Even during our short visit, we appreciated the spectacular views of blue-green waters between mountain ridges. The reservoir is an artificial lake created by a dam built at the confluence of Pshavi's Aragvi and Mtiuleti's Aragvi (White Aragvi). The surrounding forests on the slopes of the Kartli, Alevi, and Gudamakari mountain ridges create a picturesque backdrop.

I was interested to learn that the dam's construction was completed in 1985, with the Zhinvali Hydroelectric Power Plant (130 MW total power) becoming operational that same year. Beyond its beauty, the reservoir serves an essential practical purpose, supplying drinking water to about half of Tbilisi's population.

One of the reservoir's most fascinating aspects is the submerged 12th-century Church of the Holy Cross. Due to changing water levels throughout the year, this ancient church remains underwater for 6 months and then emerges to be visible on the lake bed for the other 6 months—a haunting reminder of what was sacrificed for modern infrastructure.

The area had basic facilities, including toilets, which were convenient for our quick visit. Several merchant stalls lined the parking area selling clothes, food, and coffee. As expected, the site was busy with other tourists all pausing to take photos of the stunning landscape.