Uplistsikhe (‘the Lord’s citadel’) is a cave town hewn into the living rock, 8km south-east of Gori. The citadel dates back to the 7th century BC. It served as a strategic point on the ancient Silk Road from ancient times until the 15th century AD. It contains a large central hall for pagan rituals, living rooms and a 9th century church. The picturesque Ateni Church (7th c) also near Gori is yet another classic architectural representation of the Georgian church, as are its impressive interior murals.
