The domed church dedicated to Saint George stands in Matani. A domed plan is rarer than a hall plan in a village church, so such buildings usually turn out older and more significant than their neighbours.
Matani lies north of Akhmeta in the foothills and neighbours Kvareltskali, Shakhvetila, Khorbalo and Koreti. Kakutsa Cholokashvili, one of the leaders of the armed resistance in the nineteen twenties, was born in the village. In the Matani burial grounds archaeologists found graves of both Christian and pagan tradition, which speaks of a gradual Christianisation of the foothills.
Photography inside is best agreed with whoever looks after the church. The site remains part of the everyday life of the area, and that deserves respect.
Tips
- Leave spare time for the climb.
- In summer bring a hat, as there is almost no shade.
- It is better to leave a dog outside.
Getting there
- Leave the car at the nearest street and continue on foot.
- Navigate by the coordinates, as there may be no signs on the approach.
Have you been here? Leave a review on Madloba and help other travellers.
