Natakhtari means the place where a throne once stood. The link with the name of Queen Tamar comes from tradition: Georgia knows a good many such places bound to her by popular memory, from mountain passes to roadside stones. No dedication is given for this site; it is venerated in its own right.
Lalisquri lies in the foothills between Akhmeta and Telavi, above the plain, and the site stands on a rise over the village. It should not be confused with the village of Natakhtari near Mtskheta: only the word coincides, the places differ and lie in different regions. The same Lalisquri holds a church of the apostle John, a little to the south.
No regular services are held here, the site is open, and it can be approached at any time. The climb is short but unpaved, and turns to mud after rain. If you come, allow time for the second sanctuary of the village as well: less than half an hour on foot separates them.
๐ In brief
- A revered site; natakhtari means the place where a throne stood
- A rise above Lalisquri, foothills between Akhmeta and Telavi
- The village of Natakhtari near Mtskheta is a different place
๐ Getting there
- Landmark: Lalisquri village, Akhmeta municipality; about sixteen kilometres to Akhmeta
- A route is built with the Build Route button
โ๏ธ If you have made it here, tell about it in a review - your experience will help others.
