The Jvarpatiosani church stands by Ujarma. The name means the precious cross and is linked to one of the crosses said to have been raised when Christianity was established in Kartli: the fourth of them was set in Ujarma.
In antiquity Ujarma was a town on the border of Kakheti, and at the turn of the fifth and sixth centuries it became the residence of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, who fortified it substantially. He died of his wounds here in the year five hundred and two. The fortress with its towers and walls occupies a rocky ridge above the bed of the Iori; an Arab governor destroyed it in the tenth century and the upper part was restored under George the Third.
Modest clothing is expected, with shoulders and knees covered. The site remains part of the everyday life of the area, and that deserves respect.
Tips
- Drop by on a weekday, when there are fewer people.
- Keep your phone charged, as reception comes and goes.
- There is no need to touch candles or icons.
Getting there
- Plan the visit together with nearby stops, as there is no dedicated transport here.
- Leave the car at the nearest street and continue on foot.
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