Zedazeni Monastery in Georgia: history and views of Tbilisi and Mtskheta
In 1946, northeast of Mtskheta, on the Saguramo Ridge, the Saguramo Nature Reserve was established to protect, study, and disseminate the diverse flora of the Colchian family. The reserve is a significant recreational area, and several resorts are located in the surrounding area. These include Saguramo, Karsani, Zedazeni, Tsitsamuri, Tserovani, and others.
Zedazeni Monastery is located northwest of Mtskheta, on the left bank of the Aragvi River, on the Saguramo Ridge. This monument enjoys a unique location: from its high mountaintop, it offers endless vistas of the Greater Caucasus Range, Tbilisi, and Mtskheta.
The monastery was built in the third quarter of the 8th century. The complex comprises several structures: the three-aisled Basilica of St. John the Baptist, a gate with a bell tower, a fence, and the ruins of several outbuildings.
The three-aisled Basilica of St. John the Baptist is square in plan. The nave is narrow and fairly high. A semicircular apse is located on the eastern side of the basilica. Currently, the church has two entrances – one on the south and one on the east (the eastern entrance was added later). The interior features two pairs of massive supporting columns, dividing the structure into three naves. The central nave is significantly higher than the side naves. The facades are distinguished by their simple decoration. The windows are asymmetrical. The window in the altar is decorated with a simple cross.
Particularly noteworthy is the single-nave hall church from the 6th century, located in the eastern nave of the northern part of the cathedral, which culminates in a rectangular altar. This church is associated with the renowned cleric John Zedazeni, one of the Assyrian Fathers. His tomb is located in the northern part of the cathedral, partially recessed into the apse. The holy father served here with his disciples. Many miraculous events are associated with his name—through the power of his prayer, a spring of healing water gushed forth, wild animals were domesticated, and so on.
The Zedazeni Monastery has been restored and renovated several times and is currently active.
Tourists have fallen in love with this place, as it's rare to find a glimpse of ancient history at every resort. Georgia offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Middle Ages, as churches and fortresses from that era have been preserved throughout the country.
Explore the country's religious landmarks and popular tourist destinations at madloba.info. Here we publish useful links, detailed reviews, and much more to help you plan your perfect trip!
42 comments
Log in to leave a comment
Je me demande comment les restaurations ont changé l’endroit au fil des ans. Est-ce que le sentiment d'authenticité est toujours là, ou est-ce que ça commence à faire trop "touristique" ?
Кто-то говорит, что там чувствуешь спокойствие, но я, честно, думал о том, что за стенами системы и веков. И вот, когда стоишь на вершине и смотришь вниз, вспоминаешь, что за каждым цветком, каждым камнем стоит не просто история, а целая жизнь.
Кстати, как думаете, есть ли там места, где можно уединиться и просто помедитировать?