Nestled in the village of Bodbe, just a stone’s throw from the charming town of Sighnaghi in the Kakheti region, lies the Bodbe Monastery, located 95 kilometers from Tbilisi. This sacred site houses the relics of Saint Nino, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all corners of the globe each year who come to pay their respects. The picturesque walk from Sighnaghi to Bodbe Monastery takes about half an hour to an hour, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Georgia, a land steeped in rich history, is renowned for its multitude of churches, monasteries, and Orthodox sacred sites. Among the most revered historical locations in the country is the Bodbe Monastery, a female monastery closely associated with the name of Saint Nino, the Equal-to-the-Apostles who brought Christianity to this land. Many consider Bodbe to be a place of great spiritual significance.
Bodbe Monastery is a female monastery under the jurisdiction of the Georgian Orthodox Church. It was founded in the 6th century on the site of the former Temple of Saint Nino, the revered figure who played a pivotal role in Georgia’s conversion to Christianity. Saint Nino (circa 280 – January 14, 335/347) is celebrated as the Christian enlightener of Georgia, and her memory is honored on January 14, attracting a particularly large number of pilgrims during this time.
In the 9th to 11th centuries, a church was constructed at the site where Saint Nino was buried, although that building has not survived. In 850, a brick cathedral was erected on this site, notable for its use of brick, which was not a common material for church construction in Georgia at that time. The truncated dome is a traditional feature of Georgian churches. This cathedral was dedicated to Saint George, the heavenly patron of Georgia, and its walls were adorned with frescoes depicting scenes from both the Old and New Testaments. Some of these frescoes have survived to this day. In the southern part of the Cathedral of Saint George lies the burial site of Saint Nino.
Adjacent to the cathedral, a monastery was established, flourishing by the 15th century and becoming a center of ecclesiastical culture, particularly revered by the kings of Kakheti. However, in the early 17th century, the monastery was ravaged by Persian forces, and in the latter half of the century, it was restored by King Teimuraz I of Kakheti.
Later, a theological seminary was opened here, accumulating a vast collection of religious publications. In the 18th century, a male monastery operated on the premises. The cathedral underwent restoration in the second half of the 19th century, during which a new iconostasis was installed, which still stands today.
During this period, a separate three-story bell tower was constructed. Although a later addition, it harmonizes beautifully with the overall architectural ensemble of the monastery.
Over time, the monastery lost its status as a local church and fell into decline. Restoration efforts began in the latter half of the 19th century. In 1889, the monastery was visited by Tsar Alexander III, leading to the decision to open the monastery for women.
From 1924 to 1991, during the Soviet regime, the monastery was closed, and the building functioned as a hospital. Restoration of the monastery only began between 1990 and 2000, initiated by a graduate of the Bodbe School, and was completed in 2003.
The grave of Saint Nino is a national treasure of Georgia, located in the southern chapel of the Cathedral of Saint George. Many believe in her healing powers, which are said to help with both physical and spiritual ailments. Photography is strictly prohibited in this sacred area.
The monastery is also home to the miraculous Iverian Icon of the Mother of God, known for its myrrh-streaming properties. Commonly referred to as the “Gatekeeper,” the original of this icon is housed in Mount Athos. This icon holds great reverence in Georgia. During the years when the cathedral housed a hospital, the icon was occasionally used as an operating table, as evidenced by numerous cuts on the fabric right over the face of the Virgin Mary.
Perched in the mountains, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the Alazani Valley. Behind the observation platform, a trail leads down to a healing spring (3 km away), accessible by descending 643 hand-crafted steps.
It is believed that the water from the Spring of Saint Nino has healing properties, and that immersing oneself in it cleanses the soul of sins. As a result, the area around the spring is always bustling with tourists. To enter the spring, visitors must wear a white shirt (which can be purchased on-site, borrowed for free, or brought from home) and wait in line. Only five people are allowed in at a time. Men and women undergo the ritual of immersion separately.
Adjacent to the sacred spring stands a small church dedicated to the parents of Saint Nino, Zevulon and Sosana, built in the 1990s.
To the right of the Cathedral of Saint George is the Church of Saint Nino. Although this structure was erected relatively recently, it blends seamlessly with the entire monastery complex, maintaining the architectural harmony of the site.
The monastery grounds are beautifully landscaped, featuring flower beds, lush lawns, and vineyards, along with numerous auxiliary buildings. The surroundings are picturesque, inviting visitors to leisurely stroll along the stone-paved paths, admire the well-maintained park, and take in the ivy-clad stone walls and towering cypress trees.
Visiting the monastery and cathedral grounds is free of charge, with opening hours from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The site includes a dining hall and a souvenir shop. However, entry into the Bodbe Monastery itself is restricted, as it remains an active place of worship.