PROMETHEUS CAVE

A few days ago, while I was working at my desk and feeling quite tired, I decided to take a break. I found myself on Facebook, browsing the latest news when a photo captured by my colleague, Nadejda Javad, instantly caught my attention. The photo displayed a location with breathtaking colors and terrain that were nothing short of spectacular. I couldn't resist asking about the place's whereabouts, and Nadejda kindly shared a Google Maps link.

To my amazement, I discovered that this captivating place was the "Prometheus Cave" in Georgia. At that moment, I made a personal promise that if I ever found myself in Georgia, I would undoubtedly visit this remarkable cave.

About two hours later, I received a call from my bandmate. During our conversation, he mentioned, "There's a company car heading to Tbilisi, and we could stay for 2 days before I have to return to work." I was genuinely taken aback. It reminded me of Cem Yilmaz's joke about "sending billions of messages to the universe," and it struck me how sometimes, when you truly desire something, the universe conspires to make it happen.

Frankly, the situation was quite unusual. Spontaneous actions and decisions can be incredibly exciting. Leaving the comfort of my own country was an entirely different adventure. Suddenly finding myself in Tbilisi, a magnificent city steeped in history and filled with unique details, felt almost dreamlike. It was my first time in Tbilisi, and I was immediately captivated by its beauty, the warmth of its people, the curiosity of fellow tourists, the enchanting street music, and so much more. It was a city that never allowed a dull moment.

Due to time constraints, our initial plan to visit Kumistavi on the same day was postponed due to the scorching heat and fatigue. After spending the night at a motel, we set out for the cave early the next morning. Our journey included changing routes three times and traveling for approximately five hours. The cost of the trip was 20 Lari per person, with an additional 7 Lari entrance fee to the cave.

Now, we found ourselves in the courtyard of the cave, surrounded by a clean and bustling environment teeming with tourists. The cave, also known as Kumistavi Cave, is located in the settlement of Tskaltubo. Discovered in 1984, it stands as the largest cave in Georgia, spanning approximately 1600 meters in length with an internal temperature of around 14 degrees Celsius.

Visitors are greeted by an underground river, a lake, petrified waterfalls, and an enchanting display of stalagmites and stalactites. These natural wonders, illuminated by various shades of LED lights, create a harmonious and mesmerizing atmosphere. To enhance this already awe-inspiring experience, Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" fills the cave, making the beauty within even more profound. Working and creating amidst the music of Vivaldi is a truly indescribable sensation; it's something that must be felt.

I'm delighted to share with you the photos I captured in this magnificent cave. I hope that they evoke in you the same emotions and wonder that my colleague's photo did for me. I'm confident that if you ever find yourself in Georgia, a visit to this cave will be an experience you'll cherish forever.