Near Dedoplistskaro, in Kakheti, is the monastery of Elia, built in honor of the clairvoyant Saint Elijah.
The monastery of Elia Dedoplistskaro is mentioned not only in various documents and historical reference books. At one time, Alexander Dumas visited here. Being in awe of the beauties of the local nature, he left notes about this event in his writings.
Visit Eliya Monastery in Kakheti⬇️
- What to see and study?
- The legend of the sanctuary
- The Secret of Mount Elia
The sanctuary of Eliya is located in Kakheti, near Dedoplistskaro, on an amazing mountain with two peaks. Like all the sights of Georgia, Ilia is stunning with its beauty and sophistication.
This religious monument is of great importance for Georgians. Here it was built in the 6th century AD. Every year, every second day in August, parishioners visit the sanctuary. They come here for a reason, their goal is to honor the memory of the great clairvoyant Saint Elijah. The peculiarity of this rite is that on this day the visitors of the temple meet the dawn by climbing the mountain. And they go down to the foot of the cliff to pray.
What to see and study?
The sanctuary of St. Tezbiteli was built around the 4th century, as evidenced by archaeological excavations conducted by specialists. Unfortunately, the exact date and year of construction of the temple is unknown. The temple eventually lost its refined and attractive appearance, so a group of reenactors engaged in its restoration. The temple was completely restored by 2006.
The only written proof of the beauty and majesty of this place are the memoirs of A. Dumas, which have been published in many languages. During the trip, the French writer was amazed by the beauty of Mount Elia and captured his emotions on paper. Alexandre Dumas described in his diary that Mount Elia is located about six miles from the castle of Queen Tamara. The playwright also described that this majestic mountain is located next to a salt lake. Another great interest is that in a large cave in the center of the mountain there is a powerful bell tower, which is in great demand among local residents.
The legend of the sanctuary
If we turn to the features of the legend, then it tells about a magical crow who saved the clairvoyant Ilya by bringing him food. And he, in turn, threw off his cape and ascended to heaven.
The chapel is also among the attractions of this place. It is of great interest to study. The walls of the Chapel of St. Elijah have witnessed many different situations taking place in Georgia. If you decide to visit this religious and cultural monument today, then you will succeed. At the moment, the chapel has been reconstructed and is now ready to meet the flow of tourists. The residents still maintain the tradition of worship here, so you can witness one of the religious days.
The Secret of Mount Elia
The sights of Georgia are full of mysteries. Mount Elia has a secret. It has a secret tunnel. If you enter the tunnel from one side, you can exit right in front of the gates of Hornabuji Castle. According to local residents, there were several possible exits from the tunnel, but only one path leading to the castle is known. Since the tunnel is part of a cultural monument, it is of great value to the cultural heritage of Georgia.
But if you want to visit this tunnel right now, I hasten to upset you, at the moment the tunnel has collapsed, but perhaps it will be restored soon. But the most beautiful photos from the monastery of Elia are provided for you!
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Photos: Mariam Kvitsiani
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Загадки, легенды, потайные туннели и древность этого храма просто кладезь для любого туриста.
Надеюсь, разрушенный туннель уже восстановили.