In Gurjaani, near the village of Vejini hides the church of Gurgval or Lomis Church, in one of the most beautiful places in Georgia.
We can say that the ancient Gurgval Church has not been spared by time. But more accurately, this sight of Georgia was not spared by people - someone ordered to dismantle it and build a house out of the church stones. The second name is the church of Lomis.
Georgia's sights are very diverse in terms of historical periods, architectural features and degree of preservation. Gurgval Church in Vedjini is one of those monuments that have survived only partially, but this was its distinctive feature.
The church is located in the wine region of Kakheti, Gurjaani municipality, near the village of Vejini. Since it is impossible to see a part of the structure, for everyone this place looks differently - because it is possible to finish the ruined parts with the help of imagination.
Someone will see here a small church with a sloping roof. Someone imagines a huge dome. If you look at the building from above, you can assume that the semi-circular wall passed into a round observation tower. This seems reasonable, given the view from the high ground.
What is certain is that the church did not collapse by itself. It was caused by foolish orders, after which the stones from which it was built were dismantled to build a house. By the way, Gurgwal is not the only name, the second is the church of Lomis.
There is a legend that explains the name. It tells of a bogatyr Lomisi, who with an icon of St. George tied to the horns, led 7,000 Mtiuli (one of the Georgian subethnoses) out of captivity. After that the bogatyr was canonized. Since then they began to address to him with requests for children, return of sight and a rich harvest.
Besides, the saint is the patron saint of families, and on the Lomisoba holiday, devoted to the salvation of the Mtulians, many young parents baptize their children.
Now, of course, the church does not operate, but occasionally there are believers or fans of photo shoots. After all, nowadays, few people will refuse artistic photos on the background of half-destroyed antiquity and mountains.
By the way, those who like peace and quiet, this place should be to their liking. It is difficult to choose and name the most beautiful places in Georgia, because tastes are different, and there are many interesting places in the country. But if you answer the question of what to see in Georgia, Lomis Church should be on the list.
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Photo by: georgiantravelguide.com
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