Tsaishi Cathedral

One of the oldest cathedrals in Georgia is the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. Today, it serves as the main cathedral of the Zugdidi and Tsaishi Diocese and is home to one of the country’s most ancient episcopal sees. The episcopal seat on the grounds of this church existed as early as the 6th-7th centuries. Furthermore, the Tsaishi Diocese is mentioned among the bishoprics of Lazica in the official lists dating back to 602-610 AD. The oldest known reference to the Tsaishi Episcopate is preserved in the inscription on a stone cross from the 10th-11th centuries, where, alongside the name of King Bagrat, a mention is made of Ephraim, Bishop of Tsaishi.

The domed Tsaishi Cathedral, which has survived to this day, was erected at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries. Before its construction, the site was occupied by a dome-less basilica, built in the 10th-11th centuries. From the 11th century until 1823, Tsaishi was served by only 20 bishops. Among them, the figures of Malachi Gurieli and Grigol Chikovani stand out in particular. Bishop Malachi is remembered for having completely restored the cathedral after a devastating earthquake in the early 17th century. Bishop Grigol’s legacy lies in his efforts to return lands, unlawfully seized by feudal lords, to the church.

In 1823, after Georgia was incorporated into the Russian Empire, the Tsaishi Episcopate was abolished. By 1879, a monastery was established on the site, complete with an educational school. However, following the Soviet takeover, the monastery was abandoned and fell into ruin. Restoration efforts only began in 1989. Today, aside from the main cathedral building, the bell tower, surrounding walls, and gate have also been preserved. Beyond the church’s enclosure, visitors will find a garden adorned with graceful palm trees.

The architectural plan of the present-day cathedral is characterized by its simplicity. The structure is rectangular, featuring a semicircular apse. Inside, there is a choir balcony, yet notably, no stone staircase leads to it. It is therefore assumed that clergy would ascend to the balcony using a temporary wooden ladder. For centuries, Tsaishi Cathedral served as an important center of education and enlightenment in Georgia. One of the oldest surviving structures here is the palati — a building located east of the cathedral wall, dating back to the 11th century.

Reaching the cathedral is a challenging journey. The route winds through bridges and mountains along a gravel path. From the main road towards Zugdidi, one must travel to the village of Tsatskhvi and cross the river beyond. Perched on a hill, the cathedral immediately comes into view upon approach.

Address:
Georgia, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Region,
Village of Tsaishi, 16 Iona Meunargia Street.