Martvili Monastery, Martvili, Georgia

Martvili Monastery sits upon the highest hill in the vicinity and was of strategic importance. The site upon the hill where the monastery stands today was used in ancient times as a pagan cultural center and was a sacred site. There once stood an ancient and enormous oak tree that was worshipped as an idol of fertility and prosperity. Infants were once sacrificed here as well. After the conversion of the native population to Christianity, the ancient tree was cut down so as not to worship it anymore. A church was originally constructed in the late 7th century upon the roots of the old oak tree and was named in honor of Saint Andrew who preached Christianity and converted the pagans across the Samegrelo region.

The main Martvili-Chkondidi Cathedral (Chkoni translates to 'oak') was reconstructed in the 10th century after invasions that destroyed the prior church. Preserved in the church are frescoes of the 14th to 17th centuries.

References:

Wikipedia

Address

Martvili, Georgia

See all sites in Martvili

Details

Founded: 10th century
Category: Religious sites in Georgia

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.8/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby

Gelati Monastery (34,4 km)
Bagrati Cathedral (30,4 km)
Shemokmedi Monastery (61,2 km)
Tsalenjikha Cathedral (32,5 km)

User Reviews

Rico Schiekel (2 years ago)
A wonderful and amazing place. A very beautiful church, a great view and a relaxing garden area. A place worth a visit.

Arabic With Gehan (2 years ago)
One of the most amazing monasteries in Georgia. Martvili village, even the Experience with the only very old cable car . But once you reach you will be fascinated with the view & sure the nature and the great history & architecture

Astaticas (2 years ago)
Magnificent monastery with calming atmosphere in the yard. Inside the church you will find beautiful ancient paintings under the dome

anna mory (2 years ago)
The locals say that the Megrelian kings were fasting here, I saw many similar tombs in the church, it is an amazing place, very beautiful.

overdose (2 years ago)
Ancient place. You shouldn't leave without seeing this. Good place for taking beautiful pictures. Little shop up there to buy candles. No restaurants or hotels. There is parking and smoking places.

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Martvili Monastery