Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali

A Guide to the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali

Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali in Tbilisi

Standing beside Metekhi Church on a dramatic cliff above the Mtkvari River, the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Tbilisi.

The monument honours the fifth-century king traditionally credited with founding the Georgian capital. Its location also provides one of the best views across the river towards Old Tbilisi, the colourful houses of the historic centre, Narikala Hill and the Sulfur Baths district.

The monument is free to visit and can easily be included in a walking route through Old Tbilisi and Avlabari.

Who Was King Vakhtang Gorgasali?

Vakhtang I Gorgasali was a fifth-century king of Iberia, also known as Kartli—an ancient Georgian kingdom centred in the eastern part of present-day Georgia.

He is remembered as a warrior king, a supporter of Christianity and one of the most important rulers in early Georgian history. Georgian tradition connects his name particularly closely with the foundation and development of Tbilisi.

The exact dates of his reign remain debated among historians, but his importance in Georgian national memory is unquestioned.

The Legend of Tbilisi’s Foundation

According to Tbilisi’s most famous founding legend, King Vakhtang was hunting in a forest when his falcon chased a pheasant. The birds fell near—or, in some versions, directly into—a hot spring.

After discovering the naturally warm sulfur water, the king decided to establish a city in the area. The name “Tbilisi” comes from the Georgian word “tbili,” meaning “warm.”

Archaeological evidence shows that people lived in the area long before the fifth century, so the story should be understood as Tbilisi’s traditional founding legend rather than a literal account of the city’s earliest settlement.

The naturally hot springs still flow beneath the historic Tbilisi Sulfur Baths in Abanotubani.

About the Monument

The equestrian monument depicts King Vakhtang Gorgasali seated on horseback and looking across the Mtkvari River towards the historic city.

It was created by prominent Georgian sculptor Elguja Amashukeli and erected in 1967. Architects T. Kandelaki and D. Morbedadze worked on the monument’s setting.

Amashukeli also created the famous Mother of Georgia statue, which stands on the opposite hill above Old Tbilisi.

The monument’s elevated position is an important part of its design. Rather than standing in an ordinary city square, the king appears to watch over the capital traditionally associated with his name.

Visitors interested in the sculptor and the artistic history of the monument can read this detailed article about Elguja Amashukeli and Tbilisi.

Views from the Statue

The courtyard around the monument offers excellent views across the Mtkvari River.

From this viewpoint, you can see:

The traditional houses and balconies of Old Tbilisi
Narikala Fortress
The Abanotubani Sulfur Baths district
Meidan Square
The Mtkvari River and Metekhi Bridge
Rike Park
The Bridge of Peace

Morning usually offers clear light across the river towards Old Tbilisi, while late afternoon and sunset create a more atmospheric view of the city. The area is also attractive after dark, when many surrounding landmarks are illuminated.

Visit the Statue on the Old Tbilisi Free Tour

The Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali is one of the route highlights of the Old Tbilisi Free Tour operated by Tbilisi Free Walking Tours.

The tour connects the monument and the legend of Tbilisi’s foundation with the wider history of the city. Its route also includes Freedom Square, traditional Tbilisian courtyards, the Clock Tower, Bridge of Peace, Rike Park and the Abanotubani Sulfur Baths district.

Visiting independently is easy, but exploring the area with a local guide provides more context about King Vakhtang, the hot-spring legend and the development of Old Tbilisi.

How to Get There

From Avlabari Metro Station

Avlabari is the nearest metro station. From the station, walk downhill towards Europe Square and Metekhi Church. The journey normally takes approximately 8–10 minutes.

From Old Tbilisi

From Meidan Square or the Sulfur Baths, walk towards Metekhi Bridge, cross the Mtkvari River and follow the uphill path towards Metekhi Church.

Rike Park

Walk towards Europe Square and Metekhi Bridge. The monument is visible above the river and can be reached by following the road up to the church courtyard.

Accessibility

The monument can be approached by road without using the long staircase from the riverside. However, the surrounding area includes slopes, stone paving and some uneven surfaces.

Visitors using wheelchairs or travelling with someone who has limited mobility may find the road approach easier but could still require assistance.

Practical Information

Location: Beside Metekhi Church, Metekhi Rise, Tbilisi
Georgian name: ვახტანგ გორგასლის ძეგლი
Type: Equestrian monument
Sculptor: Elguja Amashukeli
Erected: 1967
Entrance fee: Free
Usual opening hours: Daily, approximately 9:00–19:00
Nearest metro station: Avlabari
Recommended visit time: 15–30 minutes
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon

The monument stands within the grounds of Metekhi Church. Although it is an outdoor monument, access is limited to the opening hours of the church grounds, and the gates are closed in the evening.

Opening hours may occasionally change because of religious services, holidays or decisions made by the church administration.

There is no separate dress code for viewing the monument. Modest clothing is recommended if you also plan to enter Metekhi Church, which is an active Georgian Orthodox place of worship.

What to See Nearby

The statue’s central location makes it easy to combine with:

FAQ

Is the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali free to visit?

Yes. The monument is located in an outdoor public area and there is no entrance fee.

Is the monument open at night?

No. Although the statue is outdoors, it stands within the grounds of Metekhi Church, and the gates are normally closed in the evening. Plan your visit during the daytime, preferably before 19:00.

Why is King Vakhtang Gorgasali important?

He was an influential fifth-century Georgian king and is traditionally credited with founding Tbilisi. He also played an important role in Georgia’s political and religious history.

How much time should I spend here?

Allow approximately 15–30 minutes for the statue and panoramic views. Plan up to 45 minutes if you also want to visit Metekhi Church and explore the surrounding area.

Is the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali worth visiting?

Yes. The monument itself is an important symbol of Tbilisi, while its cliff-top location offers one of the finest views of Old Tbilisi, the Mtkvari River and Narikala Hill.