The church is dedicated to Saint Shio, one of the thirteen Assyrian fathers who came to Georgia in the sixth century. The place is called both a church and a small monastery: both versions are in use, so come without fixed expectations.
One thing should be settled at once: the famous cave monastery of Shiomghvime, founded by this saint, lies near Mtskheta at quite the other end of the country. This church stands about seven kilometres west of Telavi, closer to Ikalto with its ancient academy and monastery; no village of its own is attached to it, so navigate by the coordinates.
The grounds are open around the clock and can be approached freely. The final stretch is unpaved and turns soft in rain. If this is an active community, monastic rules apply: covered clothing, quiet, photography by permission.
📌 In brief
- A church of Saint Shio, one of the thirteen Assyrian fathers
- The foothills west of Telavi towards Ikalto, about seven kilometres from the town
- The place is called both a church and a small monastery
🚗 Getting there
- Landmark - the foothills west of Telavi towards Ikalto; the last stretch is unpaved
- For navigation tap Build Route
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