The most beautiful places of Georgia in Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti - a two-day route with a local guide

The next point of our walking route will be Mount Hihata. At the intersection of the roads leading to the village of Shkmeri and Uzunti, we need to choose the northern direction. After passing through the Ikat ridge with a height of more than 2200 meters above sea level and discovering many karst craters along the way, we will come to the village of Mravaldzali. St. George's Church is located here, which are not so few in Georgia, but this temple has its own long and rather interesting history.

It is believed that monks have lived in this area since ancient times, even before the appearance of the temple, why they left this territory is unknown. However, in the places where they stayed, there were buildings that have fallen into disrepair at this time.

The time of construction of the church of St. George is attributed to the 11th century, and its initiator was Tsar Bagrat III. Historians testify that the spiritual and cultural influence of the temple was very serious in these places.

Did the wars and various invasions affect the walls of the temple at that time? There is no documentary evidence of this. However, it is known that in its original form, this attraction of Georgia it existed until the end of the 19th century.

At the turn of the century, Archpriest Mikhail Skhirtladze decided to restore the temple and give its appearance a new shape. The building was turned into a dome, and only the eastern facade remained from the old building at all. It is likely that the temple passed all sorts of troubles in the Middle Ages, but he got it in the 20th century – in 1934 almost all the artifacts were stolen from the temple, and the thieves could not be found.

In the late 80s, an earthquake occurred that turned the building into ruins. The Church of St. George Mravaldzali was restored only in 2009.

In conclusion, it should be noted that an overnight stay is planned during the passage of the route. There may be difficulties with drinking water. It is necessary to bring a sufficient amount with you.

In general, any trip to Georgia will be bright and memorable. Each place has its own history, features and legends. This is a very ancient country and there are immensely many legends. Locals are always happy to tell interesting facts, and tourists note an incredible burst of energy from visiting attractions.

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