Sighnaghi Municipality
Sighnaghi in Kakheti: Erekle II’s town walls, Bodbe Monastery with St Nino’s grave, Alazani Valley views and wine. History and routes.
Sighnaghi Municipality — overview
MunicipalityHistory
Sighnaghi Municipality lies in south-eastern Kakheti, with the hilltop town of Sighnaghi as its administrative centre, about 113 km south-east of Tbilisi at roughly 790 m above sea level. The municipality covers about 1,250 km², from the Alazani Valley in the north-east, across the low Gombori Range, to the dry Iori Plateau in the south-west; floodplain forests line the Alazani. Sighnaghi borders Gurjaani, Sagarejo, Lagodekhi and Dedoplistskaro municipalities and Azerbaijan.
The area corresponds to the historic land of Kiziqi, and the town was known locally as Kambechovani and later Kisiki. A settlement here is recorded in the early 18th century, but Sighnaghi took shape in 1762, when King Erekle II sponsored the construction of a fortress to protect the population from raids. The town walls are about 4 km long, with 23 towers and six gates; many towers are named after nearby villages whose residents sheltered here. Under Russian rule Sighnaghi received town status in 1802, and in 1812 its people took part in the Kakheti uprising.
Just 2 km from the town stands Bodbe Monastery, one of Georgia’s most important pilgrimage sites. According to tradition, St Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity, died here in the 4th century and is buried in the monastery founded by King Mirian III. The present church dates from the 9th century and was rebuilt in the 17th; the bell tower was added in 1862–1885, and since 1991 Bodbe has been an active convent. The municipality also includes the Khirsa monastery and the church of St John the Baptist in Vakiri.
Since the restoration that began in 2007, Sighnaghi has become one of Kakheti’s most popular destinations, often called the “City of Love” for its romantic atmosphere and wedding registry. Its cobbled streets, balconied houses, museum and walls open onto sweeping views of the Alazani Valley and the Greater Caucasus. The municipality is also a wine area and includes the protected appellation Tibaani.
For travellers, Sighnaghi is perfect for a slow stay: walk along the walls and towers, visit Bodbe, enjoy local wine and Kakhetian food, and watch the sunset over the Alazani Valley. It also makes a convenient base for trips to Dedoplistskaro and Vashlovani, Gurjaani’s wineries and the David Gareja area.
FAQ
1) Where is Sighnaghi Municipality located?
In south-eastern Kakheti, about 113 km south-east of Tbilisi.
2) What is the administrative centre?
The hilltop town of Sighnaghi, at about 790 m above sea level.
3) When were the Sighnaghi walls built?
In 1762, under King Erekle II.
4) How long are the town walls?
About 4 km, with 23 towers and six gates.
5) Why is Sighnaghi called the City of Love?
For its romantic atmosphere and wedding registry, popular since the restoration that began in 2007.
6) What is Bodbe Monastery?
The monastery where, according to tradition, St Nino is buried; it is 2 km from Sighnaghi.
7) When did Sighnaghi become a town?
In 1802.
8) Which wine appellation is in Sighnaghi Municipality?
Tibaani.
9) What views can be seen from Sighnaghi?
Panoramic views of the Alazani Valley and the Greater Caucasus.
10) Where can I find official municipal information?
On the municipality’s official website.