alaverdi st. george cathedral

If you want to know more about the orthodox religion and the history of Georgia, need to see this place.The monastery was founded by the Assyrian monk Joseph (Yoseb, Amba) Alaverdeli, who came from Antioch and settled in Alaverdi, then a small village and former pagan religious center dedicated to the Moon. At a height of over 55 meters, Alaverdi Cathedral is the second tallest religious building in Georgia, after Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, which was consecrated in 2004. Its overall size is also smaller than the cathedral of Svetitskhoveli in Mtskheta. The monastery is the focus of the annual religious celebration Alaverdoba. Situated in the heart of the world's oldest wine region, the monks also make their own wine, known as Alaverdi Monastery Cellar.[1](wikipedia)

Very old cathedral. Monks are very strict re enforcing "no photos", don't even try unless you don't mind being yelled at. Also if you are a female don't sit down and cross your legs, they really don't like that and will scold you vociferously. Frescos are nice, and very old and faded. There is a small coffee shop and we were fortunate to be there as the monks were pulling out fresh little baguettes, hot and delicious.

Alaverdi used to be the second highest cathedral in the USSR, although built in the 17th century, and since survived invasions, earthquakes and soviets. Lately the monastery established there, which closed much of the area to visitors, and this is disappointing indeed. the monks also built extra dwellings that damage overall view. Inside there is not much to see, but the building itself is quite impressive in its simplicity. Definitely a place to see. On the other hand, if interested one could get wine and honey made by monks - definitely overpriced, but presumably organic and made according to old receipts.

A great time to visit as it was the day of the wine festival which gave the cathedral a great atmosphere

The monastery area is closed for visitors, one can only enter the cathedral. No museum guide. The cathedral itself has some wall paintings in so-so condition.

The building is an imposing sight as you approach. We waited outside for a few minutes while the monks finished a ceremony, which was fine because it gave us a chance to study the beautiful frescoes outside. When we went in, the effect was magical. The monks were still chanting out of sight as the sun streamed in the slit windows in the central tower. I particularly want to acknowledge our English-speaking guide, Simon, who made our day of touring so meaningful. He can be reached at +(995) 557 07 00 99 Kakheti Simon Tours. He also speaks Russian.

Alaverdi Monastery is a Georgian Orthodox monastery located 20km northwest of Telavi in the Alazani-River valley in Kakheti region.The monastery, named after the founder, the Assyrian monk Joseph Alaverdeli, dates to the 6th century, but the present day cathedral replaces a smaller older church of St. George and was built in the 11th century by Kvirike III of Kakheti.At a height of over 55 meters, Alaverdi Cathedral is the second tallest religious building in Georgia, after the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) in Tbilisi.Inside of the cathedral one can mention light that streams in from the 16 windows in the cupola and frescoes from the 11th and 15th -16th centuries.Note the 16th-century St George and dragon over the west door. The Virgin and Child above the altar is from the 11th century.Mind the dress code as it’s an orthodox monastery – pants for men, skirts for woman (some covers provided at entrance).Very impressive and authentic religious complex!

It is one of the most important religious places in Georgia and a short visit is definately recommended. The monastery has been reconstructed already, some renovation works inside are still going on, but the location of the cathedral - among fields and wineyards with view of Caucasus behind is just awasome!!!!

Great location, stunning view to the mountains. Tall cathedral and beautiful monastery nearby. Garden with all sorts of grapes. Fantastic scenery. Must see in KakhetiShorts are not accepted even for men. Large trousers are provided at the gate. Ladies must also cover head.

Fantastic place, well worth a visit. Its only a short drive away from Telavi. Picturesque location, beautifully restored, uncovered frescoes from 11th - 12 th century.

Very quiet and peaceful. Has a winery but I didn't see any retail sales. Photos outside are ok but not inside. Too bad because I would have loved some of the frescoes. Too many tourists who are too stupid to turn off their flash.

Alaverdi Monastery is situated not far from Telavi in Kakheti Region, it has ancient history, atmosphere is really breathtaking, and the view on Caucasus Mountains is picturesque. Must see place in Kakheti. Worth to visit.

If you are in the Kakheti region, this has to be one of the places to see. The cathedral is beautiful inside and out. Being with a wine group, we were also given a wine tour and wine tasting. Excellent wines! It was definitely an experience to be there.

when i came i was surprised form this monastery.Located 20 km from Telavi is a Kakheti relic, one of the most well-known medieval temples in Georgia – Alaverdi cathedral (located in the settlement with the same name). It was built in the beginning of the 11 th century and was one of the tallest structures of the time. The temple was built on the site of a small church of St. George . The temple is still called St. George Cathedral (Tsminda Georgi).Alaverdi cathedral was repeatedly destroyed. Its first restoration was accomplished in the 15 th century. The second one was in the 18 th century after the disastrous earthquake. Restorations have changed the cathedral a little but nevertheless it remains the outstanding example of medieval Georgian architecture.

We enjoyed a tour of the grounds, the cathedral and wine cellar. It was truly fascinating to learn how these monks have maintained a wine making tradition since 1011. The wines spoke for themselves. Clean, pure and full of life. I highly suggest a visit here with a good guide like Georrge Dushenko.