Church of the Virgin Mary in Chikhareshi, Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti, Georgia

In the very heart of Svaneti, in the picturesque village of Chikhareshi, stands the Church of the Virgin Mary - a historical artifact that adorns the Lentekhi valley with its majestic presence. This ancient temple, dating back to the distant Middle Ages, is a striking example of the hall type of architecture, decorated with a majestic apse on the eastern side. Passing through its sacred thresholds, visitors will plunge into the world of ancient shrines, enlivened by stone iconostases and amazing frescoes dating back to the late Middle Ages.

Light enters the temple through two modest-sized windows - one in the eastern wall and the other in the western, adding mystery to this sanctuary. The facades of the church, although devoid of excessive decoration, impress with their austere beauty, and the relief cross decorating the entrance and pediment gives them a special symbolism. The structure, made of slate and shirimi, is like a keeper of time, transporting visitors to the distant past.

The Church of Our Lady of Chihareshi is not just a historical landmark, but also a spiritual oasis where anyone seeking inspiration and peace can find peace among the ancient walls filled with the wisdom of the ages. This location is worth visiting for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of ancient times and feel the breath of history for themselves.