Didbatoni translates literally as great lord. In the Georgian tradition such names belong to revered places linked not to a particular saint but to local tradition, and no dedication is usually given for them. A site of the same name exists at Matani to the west, but these are different churches in different villages.
Sabue lies in north-eastern Kakheti at the foot of the mountains and stretches along the foothills for several kilometres. The same village holds a church of John the Baptist, though it stands considerably further north, closer to the mountains. Kvareli is about twelve kilometres away, Telavi twice as far.
What lies behind the name at Sabue is not explained by local tradition, and guessing is pointless. There are no regular services, the site is open, and it can be approached at any time. The road into the upper village is worse than into the lower part, and after rain it is best not to climb it.
📍 In brief
- A revered site; the name translates as great lord and no dedication is given
- North-eastern Kakheti, the village stretched along the foothills
- The same village holds a church of John the Baptist, further north
🚗 Getting there
- Landmark: Sabue village, Kvareli municipality; about twelve kilometres to Kvareli
- The Build Route button will take you to the spot
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