The church is dedicated to the Cross of the Lord. Jvari, the Cross, is among the most frequent dedications in the Georgian tradition, and the feast of the Elevation falls in autumn and remains the chief day of the year here.
Abatkhevi lies between Akhaltsikhe and Vale in southern Samtskhe-Javakheti. The road runs past orchards and fields, and the church becomes the main vertical line in a flat rural landscape. The Rabati fortress in Akhaltsikhe is a quarter of an hour away by car, while the border villages begin further south along the same road.
The parish is small and services are held on certain days of the week rather than daily. Arriving at a closed gate is a disappointment, so plan the visit in advance or ask the neighbours. Dress soberly, women bring a headscarf.
๐ In brief
- A village church in the name of the Cross of the Lord, Jvari in Georgian
- Abatkhevi village between Akhaltsikhe and Vale, Akhaltsikhe Municipality
- The feast of the Elevation of the Cross gathers the village in autumn
๐ Getting there
- Landmark: Abatkhevi village on the road from Akhaltsikhe to Vale; the church stands deeper in, away from the road
- For navigation tap Build Route
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