In the picturesque area of Kakheti, on the lands of the village of Vakiri in the Sighnagi municipality, stands the Church of St. John the Baptist. It buried its roots in the late 12th century, and acquired its present appearance thanks to the majestic creation of the Kakheti king Levan in 1550. The temple attracts attention with its architecture - a three-church basilica, in which traces of late reconstruction are clearly visible. On the western side there is a three-story bell tower, rising above the surrounding landscape and decorated with characteristic arches.
The architectural marvel is characterized by a clear horizontal line, while the side halls, although slightly shorter than the central nave, do not lose their size and importance. Entrance to the temple is possible from two sides - from the west and from the south, creating a feeling of invitation and goodwill.
Made of stone and brick, each stone wall testifies to the centuries-old history of this place, which has experienced much in its life. This is a place where each stone keeps the secrets of the past and transmits the energy of prayer and repentance to the future.
A visit to the Church of St. John the Baptist is worth it for anyone who wants to feel the breath of centuries, plunge into an atmosphere of mystery and inspiration, and also appreciate the skill of ancient architects invested in the creation of this amazing place.
