Bodbe Monastery
Working convent 2 km from Sighnaghi, built over the grave of St Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century.
Bodbe MonasteryPhoto: Supanut Arunoprayote, CC BY 4.0Bodbe Monastery is one of Georgia's most important pilgrimage sites, because St Nino, the woman credited with converting Georgia to Christianity in the 4th century, is buried here. The convent sits on a steep hillside among tall cypress trees, about 2 km from Sighnaghi, with gardens and terraces looking over the Alazani Valley to the Caucasus. Her tomb lies under the apse of a small three-nave basilica, and a free-standing three-storey bell tower from the 19th century stands nearby. Nuns live and work here, and the atmosphere is calm and devotional.
From the monastery a long path and staircase lead down the hillside to St Nino's spring, which pilgrims believe has healing powers; many bathe in the small chapel there. The climb back up is steep, so allow time and carry water. Inside the church visitors are expected to keep quiet, and photography may be restricted. Entry is free, and Bodbe pairs naturally with an afternoon or overnight stay in Sighnaghi.
History
According to Georgian tradition, St Nino died in the Bodbe gorge around 338 to 340, and King Mirian III had a small monastery built over her grave. The present basilica dates from the 9th to 11th centuries, with later changes. The monastery was pillaged in 1615 and restored by King Teimuraz I, and the kings of Kakheti were crowned here. A nunnery opened in 1889; the Soviets closed it in 1924, and it reopened as a convent in 1991.
What to see and do
- St Nino's tomb in the 9th–11th-century basilica
- Cypress-lined gardens with valley views
- Path down to St Nino's spring
- 19th-century three-storey bell tower
How to visit
Getting there
Bodbe is 2 km from Sighnaghi, about 5 minutes by car or a 30-minute walk. From Tbilisi it is about 115 km, roughly 2 hours by car.
When to go
Early morning, before tour groups. Plan 1 hour; 2 hours with the spring here.
- Women should cover their heads and wear a skirt; wraps are usually available at the entrance. Men need long trousers.
- The steps down to the spring are steep, and the climb back is hard work in summer heat.
- Bring a bottle if you want to collect spring water.
- Combine with Sighnaghi on the same day.
Bodbe Monastery: FAQ
Who is buried at Bodbe Monastery?
St Nino, the 4th-century evangelist who converted the Georgian royal court to Christianity. Her tomb is inside the church, under the apse.
Is there a dress code at Bodbe Monastery?
Yes. Women should cover their heads and shoulders and wear a skirt, and men should wear long trousers. Wraps are usually provided at the entrance.
Tours that include Bodbe Monastery
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Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Bodbe Monastery.
