What to see in Georgia - Samtskhe-Javakheti, Tabatskuri Church
Ancient churches of Georgia leave unforgettable impressions. One of them is the Georgian landmark, the Red Church of Tabatskuri...
The Red Church of Tabatskuri is one of the priority structures of the 10th century that have survived to this day. It is located on the territory of present-day Georgia, more precisely in Samtskhe-Javakheti, in the Borjomi magistrate, in the village of Tabatskuri.
By appearance this construction does not resemble an ordinary temple. It is constructed of hewn blocks of red color. In appearance the building has a rectangular shape. This characteristic is not corrected from within. The upper part of the church consists of a projection in the form of an arch. The apse is laid out in the vault. Inside the building it is very dim and gloomy, as the whole church is illuminated only through one dome window.
In the center of the axial walls is placed a two-stepped column, on which is the arch of the dome. The arches are based on elementary styles. The most prominent part is the upper part of the temple corner. The voluminous shelf is behind the church at the edge of the dome. If you look closely, you can see the intricate ornaments and decorative inserts on the west side of the building.
On the upper part of the domed window the scene of hunting of holy hunters is personified, and close to this drawing, according to experts, Daniel in the den of lions and several compositions surrounded by bunches of grapes. At the apex is the cornice of the east window with the image of the cross, flanked by bunches of grapes.
The History of the Church as a Testimony of the Cultural Heritage of Georgia
On March 30, 2006, the Red Church of Tabatskuri was granted the status of cultural heritage monument and on November 7 of the same year it was granted the category of immovable cultural monument of national importance. Also in the village itself you can see the following landmarks: the 19th-century Armenian Church and the White Church of Tabatskuri.
How to get there
If you are already flattered by this structure, we hasten to share the ways of arrival. The church is only 60 kilometers from Borjomi. Because of this you will not have any difficulties. There are direct services of experienced guides with services, as well as centers where you can rent a car or take a cab. You can get there from Akhalkalaki and Bakuriani.
In winter and early spring it is impossible to go by car from Bakuriani to Tabatskuri, because the road is closed because of security. But don't get upset, because in winter you can get there only through Akhalkalaki. We recommend to visit the church in late spring, summer and early fall, when the blue sky above your head and green grass under your feet is the best time to travel through the ancient and wonderful Georgia.
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Photo source: georgiantravelguide.com
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