Bagrati Cathedral

Kutaisi, Georgia

Bagrati Cathedral is an 11th-century cathedral church in the city of Kutaisi. A masterpiece of the medieval Georgian architecture, the cathedral suffered heavy damage throughout centuries and was reconstructed to its present state through a gradual process starting in the 1950s, with major conservation works concluding in 2012. A distinct landmark in the scenery of central Kutaisi, the cathedral rests on the Ukimerioni Hill.

Bagrati Cathedral was built in the early years of the 11th century, during the reign of King Bagrat III. An inscription on the north wall reveals that the floor was laid in 'chronicon 223', i.e., 1003. In 1692, it was devastated in an explosion by Ottoman troops who had invaded the Kingdom of Imereti. The incident caused the cupola and ceiling to collapse.

Conservation and restoration works, as well as archaeological studies at the Cathedral began in the 1950s under the leadership of a Georgian architect Vakhtang Tsintsadze. The restoration works headed by Tsintsadze were divided into six stages and continued for several decades through 1994. That same year in 1994 Bagrati Cathedral, together with the Gelati Monastery, was included in UNESCO's World Heritage Site list as a single entity. In 2001, ownership of the cathedral was transferred from the Georgian state to the Georgian Orthodox Church. It is presently of limited use for religious services, but attracts many pilgrims and tourists. It is also frequently used as a symbol of the city of Kutaisi, being one of its main tourist attractions.

In 2010, under the leadership of an Italian architect Andrea Bruno, Georgia commenced reconstruction works aimed at returning Bagrati Cathedral to its original state as a religious space. In July 2010 UNESCO added Bagratli cathedral to its list of endangered world heritage sites in part because of the continuing reconstruction, which it feared would affect the structural integrity and authenticity of the site. Even before the reconstruction works, in 2008 ICOMOS was concerned about the deteriorating state of Bagrati, but it commended that any conservation efforts by the Government should not include a type of reconstruction which would affect the site's historical value. In 2011 UNESCO urged the Georgian government authorities to develop a rehabilitation strategy that would reverse some of the changes made to the site in recent years, but it acknowledged that these alterations may be 'almost irreversible'. In 2013, architect Andrea Bruno was awarded a Georgian state gold medal for his role in the Bagrati Cathedral reconstruction and was subsequently recognized for this project with the University of Ferrara Domus International Prize for Restoration and Conservation. UNESCO removed Bagrati Cathedral from its World Heritage sites in 2017, considering its major reconstruction detrimental to its integrity and authenticity.

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Details

Founded: c. 1003
Category: Religious sites in Georgia

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Jiranuwat Sapudom (5 months ago)
Nice cathedral in Kutaisi with a beautiful view of the city. The cathedral can be accessed by walking from the city center. Don't forget to bring your camera, as the views from the cathedral are perfect for capturing memorable photos of your visit.
Annie B (5 months ago)
The view of Kutaisi is worth the walk up (believe me, it's UP) but the cathedral is not much to look at due to having been recently built. There were two Georgian singers outside who were nice to listen to and the priests were doing a service so that was interesting to hear. A steep walk down the other side to the botanical gardens makes for a lovely couple hours. If you're rushed for time, I'd give it a miss.
Prashant Gupta (6 months ago)
Beautiful church. Great view points. Also there are a few people singing folk songs. Must visit if you're in town.
Akhunzada zubair (khan) (6 months ago)
Georgia ?? Bagrati Cathedral Bagrati Cathedral was built in the early years of the 11th century, during the reign of King Bagrat III, due to which it was called "Bagrati", i.e., Bagrat's cathedral. An inscription on the north wall reveals that the floor was laid in "chronicon 223", i.e., 1003. In 1692, it was devastated by a cannonball shot by Ottoman troops who had invaded the Kingdom of Imereti. The incident caused the cupola and ceiling to collapse. William Lethaby called it "the finest of Georgian monuments".[1] Conservation and restoration works, as well as archaeological studies at the cathedral began in the 1950s under the leadership of a Georgian architect Vakhtang Tsintsadze. The restoration works headed by Tsintsadze were divided into six stages and continued for several decades through 1994.[2] That same year in 1994 Bagrati Cathedral, together with the Gelati Monastery, was included in UNESCO's World Heritage Site list as a single entity. In 2001, ownership of the cathedral was transferred from the Georgian state to the Georgian Orthodox Church. Officially, the cathedral is dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God and holds its main feast day on Mariamoba. It is currently the cathedral seat of the Metropolitan of Kutaisi. There are regular religious services. There is a monastery on the grounds, and the hieromonks serve as cathedral clergy. It is a very popular location for weddings among the locals. It is also frequently used as a symbol of the city of Kutaisi, being one of its main tourist attractions. #georgia #Kutaisi #atlanta #atl #tbilisi #florida #texas #newyork #love #travel #california #photography #usa #alabama #batumi #miami #explorepage #nature #tennessee #instagram #football #explore #instagood #like #art #russia #follow #fashion #BagratiCathedral #AKHUNZADA
DIY by D (6 months ago)
Bagrati Cathedral, situated in the historic city of Kutaisi, Georgia, is a marvel of medieval architecture and a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Built in the 11th century by King Bagrat III, after whom it is named, the cathedral stands as a symbol of the Golden Age of the Georgian Kingdom. Its imposing structure dominates the skyline of Kutaisi, with its striking domes and intricate stone carvings drawing visitors from around the world. Stepping inside the cathedral, one is immediately struck by the grandeur of its interior. The high vaulted ceilings, adorned with magnificent frescoes depicting scenes from religious history, create an atmosphere of reverence and awe. The play of light and shadow through the stained glass windows adds to the ethereal beauty of the space, inviting contemplation and reflection. The architectural details of Bagrati Cathedral are equally impressive. The exterior is characterized by its sturdy stone walls and towering bell towers, while the interior features finely crafted columns and arches, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the medieval artisans who built it. Every corner of the cathedral is adorned with intricate designs, from the intricately carved doorways to the elaborate patterns etched into the walls. Bagrati Cathedral holds significant historical and cultural importance for the people of Georgia. It has witnessed centuries of triumphs and tribulations, surviving invasions and political upheavals to emerge as a symbol of resilience and spiritual strength. Today, it remains an active religious site, attracting pilgrims and worshippers who come to pay homage to the saints and martyrs interred within its hallowed walls. Visiting Bagrati Cathedral is not just a journey through history, but a spiritual experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who enter its sacred halls. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility in a hectic world, a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Georgia.
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