New Shuamta: Church of Virgin Mary — History & Architecture

The Monastery of the Holy Virgin Mary is a medieval church belonging to the Georgian Orthodox Church, located in Kakheti, near Telavi, at the foot of Mount Tsivgombori. This area is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in Georgia.

The church was founded in the second half of the 16th century on the site of an abandoned monastery. New construction was begun by the wife of the King of Katekhia, Tinatin, who later became a nun and was buried in the monastery.

One of the most important icons on the iconostasis was the icon of Saint Mary. It was located on the right side of the iconostasis. The saint's face is surrounded by gold and multicolored precious stones. Today, this unique icon has been transported to the State Museum of Georgia, where it is carefully preserved in the treasury.

History

Georgia's landmarks boast a rich history, and the monastery complex in Shuamta is a fine example.

The name of the Church of the Virgin Mary, New Shuamta, derives from its location. The church stands in a flat valley surrounded by mountains.

After Tinatin's funeral, the church was not forgotten. In the late 16th century, it was completed with the Archangel Chapel, a project undertaken by the late queen's daughter, Tekla, who also became a nun. Monarchs devoted considerable attention to the monastery and donated considerable sums for its construction. For example, King Teimuraz donated a large portion of his tribute in 1637 for the preservation and maintenance of the monastery. More than a century later, in the 17th century, King Erekle II undertook the church's reconstruction.

In the 19th century, monastic life in Georgia declined, and its restoration was undertaken by Alaverdi-Kirion, who later became known as the Patriarch of All Georgia. In 1899, he restored the church walls and liturgical life within the church. However, his work was undone, as soon, under Soviet rule, the monastery ceased to fulfill its original function until 1990, when an orphanage was established in its place.

The monastery is important not only for its architecture and rich history, but also as an ancient library and a unique treasury. Precious items donated by generations of monarchs are kept here, making it a truly remarkable place to visit in Georgia.

In addition to the royal sarcophagi, the monastery's main cathedral houses the tombs of the Makashvili, Chavchavadze, and Andronikashvili families, who made enormous contributions to Georgia's development.

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