In Georgia, one of the main attractions that entices travelers to the country is its vast array of monasteries. These sacred and ancient structures cover the span of the country, with locations on the precipices of mountains and on the borders in arid regions of Georgia. I have had the privilege of visiting many in my time here and will outline some of the must-see locations for those wishing to travel here.
Jvari Monastery – This beautiful structure stands at the top of a rock mountain overlooking the convergence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, overlooking the town of Mtskheta. According to historical accounts, in the 4th century, Saint Nino, a female evangelical, placed a cross at the site of the monastery when she came to bring Christianity to the region of Georgia. She took two sticks and tied them together with a lock of her hair and placed it at the top of the mountain, facing the former capital of Mtskheta. The structure was built at the end of the sixth century to protect the cross from the elements. While the cross is no longer at the site (it was moved to Tbilisi), the monastery remains as a memory, paying homage to the actions of Saint Nino and attracting many tourists and pilgrims to the holy site.
David Gareja Monastery Complex – Completely different in structure, this monastery is one of the oldest in the country of Georgia. Built into the side of a mountain that defines the Georgia-Azerbaijan border in the Khaketi region, this holy site consists of small cave complexes in which the holy people of the church used to reside. The complex was founded in the early 6th century by David (St. David Garejeli), one of the thirteen Assyrian monks who arrived in the country at the same time. Despite the harsh environment in which the structure resides, one can still see the intricacies of their way of life, with many of the rooms on the lower levels of the complex still intact. Many of the upper levels have been subject to weathering and are now not accessible by tourists. One of the main elements of the structure is the fresco that adorns all of the walls in every cave. Holy icons and scene depictions from the bible can still be seen by tourists and pilgrims who travel there. One recommendation: do not go in the summer months if possible due to extreme heat. If unavoidable, make sure to have a large quantity of water prior to making the two-hour hike in the heat of the day.
Monastery of St. Nino at Bodbe – Perhaps one of the prettiest monasteries in the country, the Monastery of St. Nino at Bodbe was built in the 9th century about 2 km from the town of Sighnaghi in the Khaketi region of Georgia. The monastery has undergone significant renovations since its construction and now serves as a nunnery and pilgrimage site for many orthodox believers. The landscaping surrounding the structure, view from the monastery, and the architecture of the church and bell tower comprise the beauty of this site. Here many relics from St. Nino, the evangelical who inspired Jvari, are enshrined.
Gergeti Trinity Church – Gergeti Trinity Church was built in the 14th century and is the only cross-cupola church in Khevi province. Its isolated location at the top of a mountain, with Mt. Kazbek in the back ground has become an iconic symbol for the country of Georgia and is one of the most popular travel sites in the region. Previously, the church was used as a place for safe keeping of precious relics during the time of danger. It has always remained a popular destination in Georgia, even during the time of the Soviet Union. Tourists and pilgrims can choose to take a car with a skilled driver up the rocky mountain path to the site or can take on the mildly strenuous hike up hill. Regardless the view from the top is spectacular and well worth whatever chosen means to get to the top.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral – Translated literally at the Cathedral of the Living Pillar, this historical orthodox cathedral is located in the eastern portion of the old Georgian capital of Mtskheta. Considered a masterpiece of the Early Middle Ages, Svetitskhoveli is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is presently the second largest church building in Georgia, after the Holy Trinity Cathedral which is located in Tbilisi. In the cathedral are many traditional relics and icons of the orthodox church. This cathedral is also located next to a fun bazaar where tourists and pilgrims can obtain traditional souvenirs.
This list is by no means exhaustive. It is only a small taste of what this country holds as far as historical sites, and it would probably take three months for someone to visit all of them. Regardless of whether or not an individual is religious, these churches and monasteries are essential to a Georgian travel itinerary. All provide distinct aspects of the culture and history of the country and comprise some of the most beautiful architecture and scenery one can find here. It is important to note, that though one may not be a participant in the religion, one must still be respectful of the customs of the church. This includes wearing headscarves and long skirts for women, and occasionally even the men need to wear skirts. Do not worry if you are not prepared, all of the sites have extras on hand just in case. Ultimately, if one really wants to understand Georgian culture, a visit to the many churches and monasteries is a must.
Program: Overseas Professional and Intercultural Training Program
Term: Summer 2018