Hidden in the forests near Telavi, Old Shuamta Monastery preserves a remarkable 5th-century basilica and two 7th-century domed churches from the formative period of Georgian Christian architecture
Nikortsminda Cathedral in Racha is one of Georgia’s outstanding medieval churches. Built in 1010–1014, it is famous for intricate stone carvings, biblical reliefs, colourful frescoes and its beautiful mountain setting near Ambrolauri.
New Shuamta Monastery near Telavi is a remarkable 16th-century royal foundation built by Queen Tinatin of Kakheti. Explore its tall brick architecture, historic frescoes, Khakhuli icon tradition and close connection with nearby Old Shuamta.
Martvili Monastery, also known as Chkondidi, is one of western Georgia’s most important medieval religious sites. Discover its 7th-century architecture, historic frescoes, Dadiani connections, Giorgi Chkondideli heritage and dramatic hilltop setting.
Built in 964 on Georgia’s high Javakheti Plateau, Kumurdo Cathedral is one of the country’s most important medieval architectural monuments. Explore its unusual polyapsidal design, ancient Georgian inscriptions, intricate stone carvings and centuries of restoration history.
Ikalto Monastery and Academy near Telavi is one of Kakheti’s most important medieval sites. Explore ancient churches, academy ruins, traditional qvevri, wine presses, and the fascinating connection between Georgian scholarship, religion and winemaking.
Gremi was once the royal capital of Kakheti. Explore its 16th-century Church of the Archangels, fortress, palace, museum, wine cellar, baths and ruins of the medieval trading city.
Dmanisi Sioni is the main medieval church of the ancient city of Dmanisi in southern Georgia. Known for its austere stone architecture, richly carved 13th-century porch, surviving fresco fragments, and setting within one of Georgia’s most important archaeological sites, it combines medieval history with extraordinary cultural significance.
Dartlo is one of Tusheti’s most remarkable mountain villages, known for its slate-roofed stone houses, defensive towers, ancient courthouse, and dramatic setting in the Pirikita Alazani Valley. This guide covers its architecture, history, restoration, access, and what to see nearby.
Bolnisi Sioni is one of Georgia’s oldest and most important surviving churches. Built between 478 and 493, this monumental basilica in Kvemo Kartli is celebrated for its turquoise-green tuff walls, early Christian reliefs, distinctive Bolnisi Cross, and some of the oldest securely dated Georgian inscriptions preserved in Georgia.
