Gergeti Trinity Church

Gergeti Trinity Church (Georgian: წმინდა სამება - Tsminda Sameba) is a popular name for Holy Trinity Church near the village of Gergeti in Georgia. The church is situated on the right bank of the river Chkheri (the left tributary of the river Terek), at an elevation of 2170 meters (7120 feet), under Mount Kazbek.

Gergeti Trinity Church
Gergeti Trinity Church
Gergeti Trinity Church
The Trinity Church of Gergeti

The Gergeti Trinity Church was built in the 14th century, and is the only cross-cupola church in Khevi province. The separate belltower dates from the same period as the church itself. Its isolated location on top of a steep mountain surrounded by the vastness of nature has made it a symbol for Georgia. The 18th century Georgian author Vakhushti Batonishvili wrote that in times of danger, precious relics from Mtskheta, including Saint Nino's Cross were brought here for safekeeping. During the Soviet era, all religious services were prohibited, but the church remained a popular tourist destination. The church is now an active establishment of the Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church.

The church is a popular waypoint for trekkers in the area, and can be reached by a steep 1.5 hour climb up the mountain.

By December 2018 a paved/tarmac road has been laid up to the base of the church, accessible by any normal car.

View of Gerget church over Kazbegi/Stepantsminda.

References
  • Rosen, Roger. Georgia: A Sovereign Country of the Caucasus. Odyssey Publications: Hong Kong, 1999. ISBN 962-217-748-4

http://agenda.ge/en/news/2018/2536

Gergeti was reached by Germany and Turkey in World War 1

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