Alaverdi Monastery

Akhmeta, Georgia

Alaverdi Monastery is a Georgian Eastern Orthodox monastery located 25 km from Akhmeta. While parts of the monastery date back to 6th century, the present day cathedral was built in the 11th century by Kvirike III of Kakheti, replacing an older church of St. George.

The monastery was founded by the Assyrian monk Joseph Alaverdeli, who came from Antioch and settled in Alaverdi, then a small village and former pagan religious center dedicated to the Moon. At a height of over 55 m, Alaverdi Cathedral was the tallest religious building in Georgia, until the construction of the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, which was consecrated in 2004.

The monastery is the focus of the annual religious celebration Alaverdoba. Situated in the heart of the world's oldest wine region, the monks also make their own wine, known as Alaverdi Monastery Cellar.

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Details

Founded: 6th century AD
Category: Religious sites in Georgia

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.8/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Phil McC (3 months ago)
Currently under renovation, so many areas were closed offand the church tower and much of the walls are covered in scaffolding. Church itself is very impressive, as are the graves and the gardens. It's still well worth visiting.
-Rebecca's Crazy journey- REBE CHANNEL (旅するレベッカ) (3 months ago)
Under construction. Worst experience in Georgia. The monastery was under construction. There was nothing to see.
엘레네인데요 (4 months ago)
Post-Tornado Update: The roof is under construction. The lovely roses at the entrance are completely ruined. Even amidst this, it's still open from 8 AM. They still require strict rules for entering the cathedral. Ask for the clothing at the small shop on the right side of the entrance gate. Or, you don't even have to—the shop lady will stop you if you forget. No photos or videos are allowed inside the church. Hymns are played inside.
Jonathan Bennett (7 months ago)
Incredible fortress-monastery. Parts of the complex date to its 6th century founding by St Joseph of Alaverdi, one of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers. The cathedral church, dedicated to St George, is an 11th century construction and one of the Four Great Churches of Georgia. It was also the tallest church in Georgia until the completion of Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi in 2004.
Hisham WAKED (10 months ago)
What to rate about a cathedral, the house of God. Very nice surroundings and green areas, well maintained. Lots of parking spots. Recommend to visit, have some minutes of prayer, walk outside, praise the Lord.
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