The most significant medieval monastery in Georgia is located near Kutaisi. It was founded by the King David IV the Builder in 1106. In addition to the well-preserved temples, there is one more interesting place in the monastery. According to the will, King David was buried under the gate of the monastery. The gate is not in the best condition, but note that it is 900 years old. The tombstone is right in front of the gate.
Many kings are buried in the Gelati Monastery. It is believed that Queen Tamara, who built the small temples, was also buried here.
Since 1994, the Gelati Monastery is the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Church of Virgin the Blessed in the Gelati Monastery ©Yuriy Buriak
Church of Virgin the Blessed in the Gelati Monastery ©Yuriy Buriak
Church of Virgin the Blessed in the Gelati Monastery ©Yuriy Buriak
Church of Virgin the Blessed in the Gelati Monastery ©Yuriy Buriak
Tombstone near the gate of the Gelati Monastery ©Yuriy Buriak
Gate of the Gelati Monastery ©Yuriy Buriak
Beautiful view of the cliffs ©Yuriy Buriak
Near to the monastery we found interesting pigs with special devices that don't allow them to get under the fences.
Funny pig near the monastery ©Yuriy Buriak
Getting there: There are minibuses every 2 hours (from 8 am to 6 pm) from the Marie Brosse Street in Kutaisi (here) to the monastery. But you can also take a taxi.
