Mtispiri Voyage Tips and guide

Mtispiri (მთისპირი) is a small rural village in the Guria region, 14 km southeast from region capital Ozurgeti. surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, the village is known for its medieval churches and fortress, beautiful nature and clay mining.

41°56′21″N 42°9′30″E

Map of Mtispiri

Gurians speak much more quickly than average Georgians from other regions, so it is more complicated to understand them. When in need for help, look for younger people; they are more likely to know some English.

Minibus from Ozurgeti and Batumi departs every day. Minibus from Ozurgeti costs 2 lari.

Mtispiri can be reached from Ozurgeti through local road Dvabzu-Pampaleti-Mtispiri and from Chokhatauri through Khidistavi-Basileti-Mtispiri. Roads are paved.

You can easily walk in Mtispiri.

• 41.93242.17391 Askana fortress (ასკანის ციხე). Askana Fortress is a little-known medieval stronghold set on a wooded hill, offering sweeping views over the surrounding Gurian landscape. It has partially preserved six-meter high stone walls, built in 4th century. The hike up adds to the experience, making it especially rewarding for history lovers and nature fans. On the way to the fortress you will find two small lakes  (updated Feb 2026)
• 41.942442.18732 Vaniskedi Church (ვანისქედის ეკლესია). Serene,well-preserved medieval church in peaceful rural setting. Built in XI century it offers panoramic view of the surrounding area.  (updated Jul 2015)
• 41.932642.16113 Clay mining (ბენტონიტური თიხების საბადო). The Mtispiri Bentonite Clay Mine has been in operation since the 1940s and gained international importance when its clay was used in the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Mining continues today, making it one of the few places in the region where visitors can observe an active industrial site with historical significance  (updated Feb 2026)
• 41.946942.14564 Maria Hill and church (მარიამას გორი). “A historic church where Mamia Gurieli, the last ruler of the local principality, was forced to forge an alliance with the Russian Empire in the early 19th century.  (updated Jul 2015)
• 41.93198642.1737835 Intskirveli's church (ინწკირველების ეკლესია).  (updated Jul 2015)

• Hike: there are several hiking paths going through forest to nearby villages or mountain resort Bakhmaro. [1]
• Attend local festival every 30 August in 41.951542.15361 village Askana 2 km east from Mtispiri
• Swim in river Bakhvistkali inht summer days

• Ozurgeti
• Khidistavi
• Bakhmaro