David Gareji Monastery Complex

David Gareja unique complex of cave monasteries is situated on the border between Georgia and Azerbaijan. Georgian Orthodox monastery complex located in the Kakheti region of Eastern Georgia, on the half-desert slopes of Mount Gareja, some 60–70 km southeast of Georgia's capital Tbilisi. The complex includes hundreds of cells, churches, chapels, refectories and living quarters hollowed out of the rock face. The complex was founded in the 6th century by David (St. David Garejeli), one of the thirteen Assyrian monks. 
Despite the harsh environment, the monastery remained an important centre of religious and cultural activity for many centuries. The monastery remains active today and serves as a popular destination of tourism and pilgrimage. The area is also home to protected animal species and evidence of some of the oldest human habitations in the region.