Khotev Church of the Archangel, Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti, Georgia

The Khotev Church of the Archangel is a precious architectural ensemble, immersed in grandeur and history, which is located in the picturesque village of Khotevi, in the heart of the Ambrolauri municipality, near Racha. Its history goes back more than three centuries, starting from the 17th century, when this majestic temple was erected by order of tavad Merab Tsulukidze, a prince whose ancestral land was imbued with the spirit of faith and piety.

The majestic appearance of the Khotev Church impresses with its architectural solutions: a cruciform plan with a change of times and styles, a fancy bell tower on top of the western facade, topped with a light gazebo, and facades shrouded in the magic of paintings and ornaments.

Despite the difficult trials of times and ideologies, the Khotev Church not only managed to survive, but also to rise from the ruins, finding new life and the reverence of its admirers. Today its walls bear the imprint of centuries, recreating the atmosphere of centuries-old tradition and grandeur.

A visit to the Khotev Church of the Archangel is a fascinating journey into the history of Georgia, immersion in the atmosphere of ancient times and admiration for the greatness of the human spirit, capable of overcoming the trials of time and preserving cultural heritage for future generations.