The building is described as a basilica: a longitudinal church with an elongated hall rather than a cross-domed structure. This type has been widespread in Georgian architecture since the early Middle Ages, and the church is recognisable by it even before you enter.
Tsakhnistsqaro lies higher in the hills, north-west of Akhaltsikhe. The name translates as the spring by the ash tree: in Georgia such names are usually older than the settlements and hold on to a particular tree, spring or ford. A namesake of this church, also of St. Nino, stands further down the valley in the town of Vale.
The road here is a mountain one, climbing steadily, and the last kilometres call for attention. The age has to be judged by the masonry and proportions. Dress soberly, women bring a headscarf.
💡 Tip
- A basilica church in the name of St. Nino
- The mountain village of Tsakhnistsqaro north-west of Akhaltsikhe
- The name translates as the spring by the ash tree
🚗 Getting there
- Landmark: Tsakhnistsqaro village north-west of Akhaltsikhe; the last kilometres climb steadily
- For navigation tap Build Route
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