Monastery of the Martyrs in Gareji: History, Relics, Route

Did you know that Georgia's most beautiful places offer everyone the opportunity to experience the sacred? Yes, yes, and you'll see for yourself. Georgia's attractions include many interesting sites, among which the Monastery of the Martyrs holds a special place.

The Monastery of the Martyrs is a small ancient church, part of the David Gareji cave monastery complex in Georgia. The structure is located on a mountain ridge to the west, 300 meters from the desert.

To the south of the monastery entrance, a brick gate was built by order of Prince Archil of Kakheti (1664-1675). The eastern part of the building's wall is small, square, with a low ceiling and no apse. An altar made of undressed stone was later constructed in the center of the monastery.

Beyond the northern wall, another wall extends approximately 130-140 cm, essentially a sarcophagus containing the relics of martyred monks. The ceilings and walls of the building are covered in a painting technique reminiscent of 11th-century monuments.

This landmark is held in high esteem in Georgia, and a pilgrimage to Gareji is considered akin to a pilgrimage to the Promised Land.

It is truly worth a visit if you're wondering what to see in Georgia.