The church forms part of the Kvakhvreli rock complex: the chambers here are cut straight into sandstone rather than built of stone. That type makes the site noticeably more interesting than an ordinary village building.
Kvakhvreli stands on the left bank of the Mtkvari, almost opposite Uplistsikhe. The rock architecture of Shida Kartli is a large subject in itself: the soft sandstone of these banks allowed whole quarters to be carved out, and Uplistsikhe is only the best-known example. Kvakhvreli remains in its shadow, and the tourist flow barely reaches it.
Rock chambers call for care: the floor is uneven and crumbles in places, so wear closed shoes. Treat the walls and carvings gently and scratch nothing. Uplistsikhe across the river makes a logical pair for one trip.
๐ Of interest
- A church within a rock complex, its chambers cut into sandstone
- Kvakhvreli village on the left bank of the Mtkvari, Gori Municipality
- Uplistsikhe stands across the river, opposite
๐ Getting there
- Landmark: the road along the Mtkvari between Gori and Mtskheta; the turning to Kvakhvreli
- A route is built with the Build Route button
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