Mgvimevi in Imereti: Cave Monastery, History, Route

The village of Mgvimevi is located in the Chiatura Municipality. Situated 3 km from the administrative center of Chiatura, it rises 620 meters above sea level. One of the most interesting places in the village is the cave. A visit to this attraction is sure to be an unforgettable experience! This cave is a complex of two-story shelters and depressions carved into the rock.

The cave was fully explored in 1944. Remnants of material culture dating back to the middle of the Upper Paleolithic were found there. One of the depressions in the wall is particularly intriguing. It contains a linear geometric image carved by prehistoric humans, which has survived to this day.

In the village of Mgvimevi, you can also visit a stunningly beautiful convent located near the aforementioned cave. One of the churches located on the monastery grounds is the Cathedral of Christ the Savior.

It is a two-aisled basilica. The carved decorations that cover the building's façade and the preserved wall frescoes will leave a lasting impression. The wooden iconostasis, also completely covered in frescoes, is one of the church's most striking features. There are two churches on the monastery grounds.

The second is a small, hall-type church. An interesting feature of this building is that its ceiling and back wall are made of natural rock. You will also be amazed by the eastern and southern walls: a bas-relief of a ram's head is carved on the eastern wall, while the southern wall is adorned with frescoes.

After exploring the sights of Mgvimevi, you will remember them for a long time! This place simply cannot be erased from the memory of visitors.