White Church Tabatskuri, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Georgia

The White Church of Tabatskuri is a cultural treasure standing on a beautiful peninsula in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of Georgia. This Armenian temple, nicknamed "Surb Carpet" in its passport, is a unique example of 19th-century architecture, decorated with intricate details and a majestic altar on the eastern façade.

Built in 1843, the temple attracts attention with its majestic hall, completed by a sublime altar and pastophores symmetrically decorating both sides. The facades of the temple, although plastered, retain their originality, made of multi-colored tuff and brick. A majestic arched portal adorns the west side, creating an impressive welcome to visitors.

The interior of the temple is impressive in its spaciousness, with altered and whitewashed walls emphasizing the beauty and grandeur of this historical place. The majestic bell tower, rising on the western facade, serves as a kind of bracket for this architectural work.

To get to Tabatskuri, you should travel 60 kilometers from Borjomi. The drive from Akhalkalaki and Bakuriani provides the opportunity to enjoy the views before crossing the border of this unique place. Although the dirt road from Bakuriani requires some caution, it opens the way to the secrets of Tabatskuri. In winter and early spring, the road from Bakuriani can be closed, so the best way to get here is through Akhalkalaki, enjoying the last part of the journey on a dirt road before immersing yourself in the atmosphere of this historical place.

Visiting the White Church of Tabatskuri is an opportunity to plunge into the atmosphere of ancient Armenian architecture and feel the greatness of the historical heritage of Georgia. For lovers of history, architecture and beautiful landscapes, this place is definitely worth a visit.