Gergeti Trinity Church
Mtskheta-Mtianeti
Gergeti Trinity Church, located near the village of Stepantsminda in Georgia's Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, is a remarkable 14th-century Georgian Orthodox church. Sitting at an elevation of 2,170 meters under the imposing Mount Kazbek, it is the only cross-cupola church in the Khevi province. The church ensemble includes the main cross-in-square temple, a separate belltower, and a surrounding wall. Architecturally, the church features three rectangular arms and one rounded arm containing the apse, with multiple windows providing natural illumination. The facades are clad in dark-grey stone with intricate decorations mainly around doors and windows, including crosses and ornamented quadrangles. Historically, it served as a safe haven for precious relics such as Saint Nino's Cross during times of danger. Despite religious services being prohibited during the Soviet era, it remained a popular tourist destination and is now an active church. Its isolated mountain location, accessible by a steep 1.5-hour climb, makes it a symbolic and breathtaking site for visitors and trekkers alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Gergeti Trinity Church is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is favorable for the steep 1.5-hour hike up the mountain. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear and bring water. Tickets are not typically required as it is an open religious site, but donations are welcomed. Booking guided trekking tours can enhance the experience, and early morning visits offer spectacular views with fewer crowds.
Interesting facts
- •The church is situated at a high elevation of 2,170 meters (7,120 feet) under Mount Kazbek, offering panoramic mountain views.
- •It is the only cross-cupola church in the Khevi province, making it architecturally unique in the region.
- •During times of danger, relics such as Saint Nino's Cross were historically kept here for safekeeping.
- •The belltower features a figure of an unknown person carved on its western side.
- •Despite Soviet-era bans on religious services, the church remained a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims.
History
Gergeti Trinity Church was constructed in the 14th century by an unknown architect as the only cross-cupola church in the Khevi province.
The belltower, built slightly later, dates from the same period.
In the 18th century, it was noted by Georgian author Vakhushti Batonishvili that the church served as a refuge for precious relics like Saint Nino's Cross during times of danger.
During the Soviet era, religious services were banned, but the church remained a significant cultural and tourist site.
Today, it functions as an active Georgian Orthodox church and a symbol of Georgian heritage.
Place Guide
Main Church Building14th century
The cross-in-square temple with three rectangular arms and a rounded apse features dark-grey stone facades with intricate decorations around doors and windows, including crosses and ornamented quadrangles. The dome has ten windows framed with arches providing natural light.
Belltower14th century (slightly later than the church)
Located south of the church, the belltower stands on a cubic base that also serves as the entrance to the church ensemble. It features various small ornaments and a carved figure of an unknown person on its western wall.
Contact
Phone: 598 97 89 98
