population: 0.147 million
extension: 47.6 square kilometers
If you're in Kutaisi and interested in museums, one great option is the Kutaisi State Historical Museum. This museum features exhibits on local history and culture, including artifacts from ancient Georgian civilizations. Another nearby option is the Bagrati Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that also serves as a museum with exhibits on Georgian architecture and religious art. Additionally, the Sataplia Nature Reserve, located just outside of Kutaisi, includes a museum dedicated to paleontology and geology.
Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Kutaisi, Georgia according to local people are:
1. Khachapuri - a traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread that is a staple of Georgian cuisine.
2. Mtsvadi - grilled meat skewers typically made with pork or beef, seasoned with salt, pepper, and onions.
3. Lobio - a bean stew made with kidney beans, onions, tomatoes, and flavored with coriander, chili peppers, and other spices.
4. Chakhokhbili - a chicken stew made with tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs such as cilantro and dill.
5. Ojakhuri - a dish made with fried potatoes and either pork or beef, served with a side of salad or pickled vegetables.
6. Badrijani - slices of eggplant filled with a mixture of ground walnuts, garlic, and herbs, then rolled up and served cold.
7. Churchkhela - a traditional Georgian candy made from grape must (juice), nuts, and flour, rolled into a sausage shape and dried.
8. Tkemali - a sour plum sauce used as a condiment with many Georgian dishes, including grilled meats and dumplings.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique dishes you can enjoy in Kutaisi, Georgia!
Here are a few fun activities that locals enjoy in Kutaisi:
1. Visit the local market: The Central Market of Kutaisi is a bustling bazaar where you can find fresh produce, spices, souvenirs, and more.
2. Take a walk along the Rioni River: The river runs through the heart of the city, and there are several parks and pathways along its banks where locals like to stroll and relax.
3. Explore the Gelati Monastery: This 12th-century monastery complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It's located about 10 km from Kutaisi.
4. Enjoy Georgian cuisine: Head to a local restaurant or cafe and try some of the delicious traditional dishes that Georgia is known for, such as khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings).
5. Attend a performance at the Kutaisi Opera House: This beautiful theater hosts regular operas, ballets, and classical music concerts, and is a beloved cultural institution in the city.