Davati

Davati — Secrets of History on the Slopes of the Gudamaqari Range

Davati is one of the most important historical villages in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, Dusheti municipality. It is located at an elevation of 1160 meters above sea level, on the eastern slope of the Gudamaqari Range. The village is known for its ancient past and an archaeological discovery of world importance.

Davati Stela and Historical Significance

The village of Davati came to the attention of the world scientific community in the 1980s, when a 4th-century stone stela was discovered in the local church. The Davati Stela depicts a sequence of the alphabet, which is one of the oldest examples of Georgian writing. The village itself is mentioned in historical documents as early as 1170, indicating its centuries-old existence.

Geography and Today

Davati is built on mountainous terrain, on the right side of the Datvisiskhevi River. The nature here is distinguished by its tranquility and fresh air. Although the permanent population in the village is small today (about 10 people), it still retains its cultural importance. To the south-east of the village lies the Davati Church of the Virgin, an important monument of Georgian architecture.

Highlights:

• Davati Church of the Virgin — A historical temple where the stela was discovered.
• Davati Stela — The oldest example of the Georgian alphabet (the original is preserved in the National Museum).
• Gudamaqari Range Views — Beautiful mountain landscapes.
• Authentic Mountain Village — A quiet and historical atmosphere.

Davati is a place for those interested in the history of Georgia, the secrets of writing, and the peace of mountain nature.