Samtavisi Cathedral

Why visit

Samtavisi was built in the 11th century, when Georgian church architecture was at its most decorative. It is a cross-in-square church with a tall dome, and it became a model for many later Georgian churches. The east façade is its glory: two deep niches, rows of slender columns and arches, and a great cross carved in relief, all in warm, golden stone. The cathedral has been damaged by earthquakes and repaired over the centuries, and parts of it have been rebuilt.

What to see

• The east façade: walk to the far end of the compound to see it in full. The morning light is best.
• The walls: the cathedral stands inside a medieval wall with towers, partly restored.
• The belfry and ruins: a bell tower and the excavated remains of older buildings lie inside the compound.

Getting there

Turn off the Tbilisi to Gori highway at Igoeti; the cathedral is a short drive away. Marshrutkas between Tbilisi and Gori can drop you on the highway, from where it is a walk of about 20 minutes.

Tips

• Dress modestly to go inside, and women should cover their hair.
• Nearby Kvatakhevi and Ertatsminda make a good half-day of churches on the way to Gori.
• Read our guide to the churches and monasteries of Shida Kartli.