Imereti

Imereti is a west-Georgian region, where the witty and optimistic people, the Imeretians live. Khachapuri (cheese pie), a staple of Georgian cuisine which is like an Italian pizza, is very tasty. Kutaisi is the principle and oldest city of Imereti. The second city of Georgia has been mentioned since the 6th century B.C. After Tbilisi was invaded by Arabs, Kutaisi became the capital of a newly strong and united Georgia. Kutaisi citizens have maintained their ambitions (in the positive sense of the word) the since that time.

Kutaisi was one of the greatest cultural centers of Georgia and the Kutaisian sense of humor is universally recognized. The most interesting monuments of Imereti are Bagrati Cathedral built in 1005, during the reign of King Bagrat III, the king who united Georgia. Bagrati Cathedral is one of the most remarkable sights in Kutaisi. It is built near the walls of the old city stone wall Ukimerioni. It is considered to be the basis of the Baroque style.

There is also Gelati Monastery, where, in the 12th century, the Gelati Academy was founded by King David Aghmashenebeli (the Builder). The Gelati Academy is known in the civilized world as a second Athens. David Aghmashenebeli is buried in Gelati monastery, as a sign of humility at its entrance, according to his will. Near Kutaisi, there is Motsameta Monastery, which witnesses various pages in the history of Georgia. Here, David and Konstantine Eristavi refused to adopt Mohammedanism, preferring to die as martyrs in 735-737 AD, during the raids headed by the Arab commander, Murvan the Deaf. The cathedral of that period did not survive. The church of the Monastery was built in the late middle ages. To the South of Kutaisi, there is Vani. During the excavations, ruins were discovered of ancient cathedrals and palaces and even some treasure! The population of Imereti is cheerful, industrious and creative. While driving to Imereti, at the village of Shrosha, you can see people along the motorway selling beautiful articles made of clay. This is one of the oldest and most popular handicrafts in Georgia.
Kumistavi cave, also known as the cave of Prometheus, is located near the Georgian town of Tskhaltubo, 20 km away from Kutaisi in Imereti region. The cave was discovered in 1984 and was almost immediately developed as a show cave. Kumistavi is the biggest cave in Georgia. Although only one tenth is open for tourists, it takes about an hour to explore it. Inside there are underground lakes and rivers. Also There is possibility to visit Okatse Canyon and Kinchkha waterfall where tourist will have breathtaking memories.
Katskhis sveti is also very popular and well known architectural  monastery in the Imereti region.