Church of the Savior Zhabeshi, Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti, Georgia

The Zhabesh Church of the Savior in Svaneti, located in the village of Zhabesh, in the municipality of Mestia, is a magnificent structure surrounded by a mysterious atmosphere of history and architecture. Built in the 10th-11th centuries from cut stone, this church amazes with its slender proportions and exquisite design of the facade. The exterior of the building is decorated with a samtagedi composition, reflecting the characteristic features of the upper Svan towers, which gives it a unique look.

The interior of the Zhabesh Church delights with preserved fragments of wall paintings from the 12th century, transporting visitors to an era of antiquity and greatness. However, despite its beauty, the church was subjected to illegal architectural interference, as a result of which its original appearance was destroyed. The recently added vestibule and the moved-out extension on the southern façade introduce dissonance into the overall harmony of the architectural ensemble.

Despite this, the Zhabesh Church of Christ the Savior remains an important monument of national importance, attracting those interested in the history and culture of Georgia. Its visit will be a fascinating and educational journey into the world of ancient traditions and mastery of architecture.