Jvari Church Guide
Jvari Church: A Masterpiece of Early Georgian Architecture Guide
Standing proudly on a mountaintop overlooking Mtskheta, Jvari Church is a breathtaking example of early Georgian Orthodox architecture. Its simple yet elegant design, combined with its stunning location, makes it one of the most iconic and visited landmarks in Georgia. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jvari Church offers not only a glimpse into Georgia's religious history but also unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Jvari Church, meaning "Church of the Holy Cross," dates back to the 6th century. Legend has it that St. Nino, a female evangelist credited with converting Georgia to Christianity, erected a large wooden cross on this very spot. The church was built to commemorate this event and became a significant pilgrimage site. Its architectural style is considered a pivotal point in the development of Georgian church design, influencing many subsequent structures. Visitors can explore the interior of the church, admiring its simple yet powerful architecture and the ancient inscriptions on its walls. The real highlight, however, is the breathtaking view from the church's courtyard. From here, you can see the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, as well as the ancient city of Mtskheta spread out below. While there are no specific culinary traditions associated with the church itself, Mtskheta offers a variety of traditional Georgian restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Transportation
From Tbilisi, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Mtskheta from Didube bus station. Once in Mtskheta, you can take a taxi to Jvari Church. Taxis are readily available in the town center.