Kvatakhevi Monastery
12th to 13th century monastery at the head of a wooded gorge on the Trialeti range, about 55 km west of Tbilisi near Kavtiskhevi.
Kvatakhevi MonasteryPhoto: Paata Vardanashvili, CC BY 2.0Kvatakhevi Monastery sits at the end of a narrow gorge on the northern slopes of the Trialeti range, near the village of Kavtiskhevi in Kaspi municipality, about 55 km west of Tbilisi. Steep slopes protect it on three sides. The main church was built in the 12th to 13th centuries, during Georgia's Golden Age, and is a domed building with white stone facades, carved fretwork around the windows and dome, and a large ornate cross on the east facade.
The church resembles Betania, Pitareti and Timotesubani, other monasteries from the same period. Kvatakhevi is an active monastery and sees only a few visitors on most days. The drive up the gorge from the Tbilisi to Gori highway passes farmland and then forest, and the setting is a large part of the appeal. It makes a good detour on the way from Tbilisi to Gori, combined with Samtavisi Cathedral.
History
The church dates from the 12th to 13th centuries. It was badly damaged during Timur's invasions in the late 14th century, and some of its medieval treasures are now in the State Historical Museum in Moscow. Prince Ivane Tarkhan-Mouravi paid for a full repair in 1854, and a bell tower was added in 1872.
What to see and do
- Golden Age domed church with carved white stone facades
- Ornate cross on the east facade
- Setting at the head of a forested gorge
- Quiet active monastery
How to visit
Getting there
Kvatakhevi is about 55 km west of Tbilisi. Leave the E60 highway near Kavtiskhevi and drive south up the gorge; allow about 1 hour 15 minutes from Tbilisi.
When to go
May–October. Plan 45 minutes–1 hour here.
- Dress modestly; women should bring a headscarf.
- The last stretch of road is narrow; drive carefully after rain.
- Pair with Samtavisi Cathedral for a half-day church route from Tbilisi.
Kvatakhevi Monastery: FAQ
How do I get to Kvatakhevi Monastery?
Drive west from Tbilisi on the E60 highway toward Gori and turn south near Kavtiskhevi into the gorge. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, and there is no regular public transport to the monastery.
How old is Kvatakhevi Monastery?
The main church dates from the 12th to 13th centuries. It was damaged by Timur's armies in the 14th century and fully repaired in 1854.
Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Kvatakhevi Monastery.
