🏛️8 architectural masterpieces of Racha-Lechkhumi 2025 that are worth visiting ✨

Racha-Lechkhumi is not only a land of stunning nature, but also a place where unique architectural monuments have been preserved. Here you will find 11th-century cathedrals, fortresses and towers that have protected local residents for centuries, as well as one of the oldest synagogues in the Caucasus. Unlike tourist routes in Tbilisi or Kakheti, these monuments stand apart - here is silence, authenticity and the real Georgian hinterland.

🏰Spiritual origins of the region

The temples and fortresses of Racha-Lechkhumi are real chronicles in stone. Nikortsminda is a pearl of the 11th century, its facades are covered with the finest carvings with biblical scenes and ornaments, and ancient frescoes have been preserved inside. The atmosphere of the cathedral amazes even experienced travelers. Barekoni, built in the 18th century, shows the further development of Georgian architecture: a strict but harmonious temple among the mountains.

The more modest Zemo Krikhis temple attracts with its simplicity and authenticity - here you can feel the faith and silence preserved for centuries. And the Muri fortress rises above the valley as a symbol of defense, reminding that this region has always been at the crossroads and needed protection.

💡 Tip: come to Nikortsminda in the morning - the sunlight especially beautifully emphasizes the carving of the facade.

Review from a reader of the catalogue

Erik, 38, Oslo:

“I have seen many churches in Europe, from Gothic cathedrals to small Romanesque churches, but Nikortsminda was truly special. The stone carvings here are so detailed that I spent a long time looking at each scene from the Bible and the ornament on the walls. The frescoes inside have been preserved, and in their semi-darkness you can feel the breath of centuries.

We found Barekoni on the advice of locals, and it was a real discovery: the temple seems to be hidden among the mountains, it is quiet and peaceful there, and it seems that time has stopped.

And the views from the Muri fortress are simply stunning - the setting sun illuminates the valley and the old walls, and at such moments you feel a connection with history and nature at the same time.”

🪨From towers to synagogues

The architectural monuments of Racha-Lechkhumi amaze with their diversity. The Gebi towers and the Kvaratsikhe fortress rise above the valleys and remind us of the military history of the region. Their severe appearance seems to convey the character of this region, where life has always been closely connected with nature and the need for protection.

The Ushgulat church has a completely different mood - a secluded temple where you can feel the silence of the mountains and tranquility.

A special place is occupied by the synagogue in Oni - a rare monument of Jewish culture. Built in the 19th century, it stands out for its majestic façade and rich interior with stained glass and carvings.

💡 Tip: in Oni, be sure to look inside the synagogue - its interior makes an unforgettable impression.