Martvili Monastery

Nestled just 50 kilometers northwest of Kutaisi, the charming town of Martvili offers travelers a captivating blend of natural beauty and spiritual history. It is home to two prominent landmarks that define the town’s cultural identity: the serene Martvili Monastery and the awe-inspiring Martvili Canyons. Perched atop a gentle hill, the monastery is visible from the town’s entrance, its silhouette quietly dominating the landscape.

Locally known as Chkondidi—a Mingrelian term meaning “Great Oak” (chkoni meaning “oak” and didi meaning “big”)—Martvili Monastery carries with it a rich and dramatic past. According to local legend, the very hill on which the monastery now rests was once a pagan sacred site. A colossal oak tree stood here, revered as a symbol of prosperity and fertility. Rituals, including human sacrifices, were said to have taken place beneath its branches in ancient times.

The arrival of Christianity in Georgia marked a profound transformation of this space. The sacred oak was felled, and a church was built in its place to honor Saint Andrew, who is believed to have preached Christianity in the region. Thus began a new chapter in the spiritual life of the area.

The first church on this hill dates back to the 7th century, though it suffered considerable damage during repeated foreign invasions. In the 11th century, King George II ordered its reconstruction, and it was significantly expanded. Over time, the monastery complex grew to include a chapel, the Church of Mtsire Chikvana, and a modest scriptorium where monks engaged in the writing and translation of sacred texts. For centuries, the clergy of Martvili Monastery held considerable influence over the region’s social and political affairs, with abbots often playing key roles in the courts of Georgian monarchs.

While the monastery shares many characteristics with other traditional Georgian churches, it also boasts distinct architectural features that set it apart. These can be seen in the shape of its domes, the unique layout of the complex, and even the design of its windows. Inside, the church is adorned with towering columns, soaring vaulted ceilings, and layers of frescoes. The interior murals, many of which depict saints, span from the 14th to the 17th centuries, offering a vivid glimpse into Georgia’s religious art over the ages.

The grounds of the monastery resemble a tranquil park, complete with manicured lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and inviting benches where visitors can sit and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. The site is accessible by car, on foot, or via a funicular from the town below