Visit ancient monuments in Georgia. The Martville Monastery.

Martvilsky (Chkondidsky) monastery complex - one of the most significant monuments of Western Georgia. The complex is located in Samegrelo, in the town Martvili, on a high hill, offering a picturesque view of the Colchis lowland.

According to legend, in ancient times, Chkondidi was a hotbed of pagan and cult religion, where the local population worshiped the idol of Capunia - the patron saint of fertility, fertility and family welfare, sacrificing babies to him. Andrew the First-Called by a miracle destroyed the oak and the image of the idol. It was on the site of the oak that the first church was built, and in the VII century — the Martville-Chkondida Cathedral.

The monastery complex includes: a large domed church named after the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Chikovani Church, a column, a chapel, a fence and various buildings. For centuries, the monastery has been a significant religious and cultural center and played an important role in the life of the country. Since 1104, the Archbishop of Chkondida combined the post of Prime Minister (mtsignobartukhutsi).

The monastery translated books, created original works. At various times, well-known scribes John Minchkh (X century), Giorgi Chkondideli (XI century) and others conducted their activities here.

Martville Monastery it is the tomb of the sovereign princes (mtavari) Samegrelo and members of their surnames. Levan Dadiani, Ekaterina Chavchavadze-Dadiani, the last ruler of Samegrelo David Levanovich Dadiani and others are buried here. There is an assumption that the King of Georgia Bagrat IV is buried here, although his grave has not been found.

Today, the Martvil Monastery is the residence of the Georgian Patriarchate. A men's monastery functions here.