This Armenian Apostolic church dedicated to Surb Sarkis stands within the built-up area of Akhalkalaki. Saint Sarkis is one of the most venerated Armenian saints and a patron of the young, which is why churches bearing his name are found across the Armenian world.
Akhalkalaki is the centre of the municipality of the same name, where the overwhelming majority of residents are Armenian and Armenian parishes are the main ones. The town lies on the Javakheti plateau, at an altitude where winter is long and windy and summer is short. Roads run from here to Ninotsminda, Akhaltsikhe and Lake Paravani.
Photography inside is best agreed with whoever looks after the church. The site remains part of the everyday life of the area, and that deserves respect.
Tips
- Leave spare time for the climb.
- In summer bring a hat, as there is almost no shade.
- It is better to leave a dog outside.
Getting there
- Leave the car at the nearest street and continue on foot.
- Navigate by the coordinates, as there may be no signs on the approach.
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