Kintsvisi Monastery

About this place

Kintsvisi Monastery is a Georgian Orthodox monastery on a forested mountain slope in the Dzama valley, about 10 km from Kareli. Its main church is an exceptional example of brick architecture from the Georgian Golden Age, with one of the largest medieval mural ensembles. It stays quiet, suiting those who want a monastery away from crowds and coaches. The complex has three churches of uncertain origin. The central church of St Nicholas dates to the early 13th century, a date made possible by the figures of three Georgian kings in its murals. Beside it is a very small chapel of St George from about the same time, and an older church also stands on the site. You pass along a stone path between trees, then see a building with a conical dome and dark roofs, with walls of pink brick and stone. To one side stands a smaller building of rough reddish stone, with grass and big trees around them. Through the entrance arch the church looks like a picture framed by greenery, especially under a clear spring sky. It is about 23 km in a straight line from Gori and about 10 km from Kareli, so take a car, as transport may be limited. Dress modestly, women should cover their hair, keep quiet, respect the monks and do not take photos inside the church without permission. The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to nearby South Ossetia, so stay away from the administrative line and check official guidance.