Stunning Georgian Monasteries

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is located in the historic town of Mtskheta, Georgia, to the northwest of the Georgian capital Tbilisi. A masterpiece of the Early Middle Ages, Svetitskhoveli is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It is currently the second largest church building in Georgia, after the Holy Trinity Cathedral The present structure of the cathedral was completed in the 11th century, the golden age of Georgian church architecture. However, the site itself dates back to the 4th century. Christ’s robe is believed to lie beneath the cathedral.

Martkopi Monastery

The monastery is situated on the most beautiful forest-covered slope of Mount Ialno, near the village of Martkopi 25-27 kilometers from Tbilisi. It was founded by father Anton of Martkopi, one of the 13 Assyrian fathers in the 6th century. The Monastery was functional until 1934 when the communists closed it down. It served as a shelter for homeless children in the 1950s and 1960s. Later in the 80s, the monastery was restored by Georgian Patriarch Ilia II.

Gergeti Trinity Church

The ancient church, dating from the 14th century, stands at an elevation of 2170 meters, overlooking the small town of Stephantsminda, also referred to as Kazbegi, in the North of the country. Apart from its religious purpose, the medieval church used to serve as a hiding place. During invasions, at different times in Georgia's history, the national treasure was hidden there, since it was hardly reachable for enemies. During Soviet rule in Georgia, religious services were banned, but now many couples, including foreigners, ascend the mountain specifically to hold their wedding ceremonies there.

Martvili Monastery

Martvili is a small town in Samegrelo. There is a monastery situated upon its highest hill constructed in the 7th century. It was named after Saint Andrew who preached Christianity and converted the pagans across the Samegrelo region. Its construction is related to an oak tree worshipped as an idol of fertility. In the 10th century, the monastery was reconstructed and at present, it preserves frescos of the 14th, 16th and 17th centuries.