Kartlis Deda, Tbilisi

Perched on the hillside above the vibrant city of Tbilisi, the statue of Kartlis Deda stands as a protective symbol and a welcoming beacon to both residents and visitors. The monument, which translates to "Mother of Georgia," is an iconic figure that embodies the spirit and values of the Georgian people.

This aluminum statue, rising to a height of 20 meters, was erected in 1958 to mark the 1500th anniversary of the city of Tbilisi. Kartlis Deda is depicted as a stately woman in Georgian national dress, holding a bowl of wine in her left hand to greet those who come as friends, and a sword in her right hand for those who come as enemies. This duality represents the Georgian national character, known for its warm hospitality and fierce independence.

The statue occupies a prominent position atop Sololaki Hill, overlooking the city from the east. It is accessible by a winding uphill path, which offers a gradual reveal of the stunning view, or by a cable car that ascends from Rike Park. The journey to Kartlis Deda is as much a part of the experience as the statue itself, providing panoramic vistas of Tbilisi's old town, the flowing Kura River, and the modern cityscape.

As a popular tourist destination, Kartlis Deda is open to the public throughout the year. Visitors are encouraged to climb to the base of the statue to fully appreciate its grandeur and the sweeping views of the city below. In the evening, the figure is illuminated, creating a striking silhouette against the night sky and serving as a reminder of Georgia's enduring strength and hospitality.