The salotsavi is set in the Atskuri cemetery. Cemetery places of prayer are ordinary in Georgia: people come to them on commemoration days, and they supplement rather than replace the parish church.
Atskuri stands at the southern entrance to the Borjomi gorge, beneath the rock with a fortress whose first written mentions are placed in the ninth century. The Atskuri icon of the Virgin is linked to the fortress: it was moved several times from here to Gelati and back. This Atskuri should not be confused with the village of the same name in Kakheti.
Agree any photography with locals if anyone is around. The site remains part of the everyday life of the area, and that deserves respect.
Tips
- Leave spare time for the climb.
- In summer bring a hat, as there is almost no shade.
- Leave offerings only according to local custom.
Getting there
- Leave the car at the nearest street and continue on foot.
- Navigate by the coordinates, as there may be no signs on the approach.
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