Sapara Monastery
Ridge-top monastery near Akhaltsikhe, with a 10th-century church and the Jaqeli-era St Saba church full of 14th-century frescoes.
Sapara MonasteryPhoto: Claire à Taiwan, CC BY-SA 2.0Sapara is a working monastery high on a forested mountainside south-east of Akhaltsikhe, reached by a winding mountain road. It is one of the most atmospheric places in Meskheti, set on a ledge above a deep gorge with long views over the hills. The complex includes the small Dormition church, probably from the 10th century and the oldest building here, and the much larger church of St Saba, built in the 13th or 14th century under the Jaqeli princes of Samtskhe.
The interior of St Saba is the highlight. Its 14th-century frescoes include portraits of the ruling Jaqeli family on the southern wall: Sargis I, Beka I, Sargis II and Kvarkvare. The architect's name, Peresasdze, is carved on the western window arch. Monks live here, so visit quietly and dress modestly. The road is narrow and partly unsurfaced, so in wet weather a higher-clearance car is a good idea.
History
The Dormition church is thought to date from the 10th century, making it the oldest part of the complex. In the 13th and 14th centuries Sapara became the family monastery of the Jaqelis, the rulers of Samtskhe. Sargis Jaqeli took monastic vows here under the name Saba, and his son Beka I Jaqeli built the large church of St Saba. Its frescoes, painted in the 14th century, are some of the best of their time in southern Georgia.
What to see and do
- See the 14th-century Jaqeli family portraits in St Saba's church
- Visit the small 10th-century Dormition church
- Take in the views over the gorge from the monastery grounds
- Find the architect's inscription on the western window arch
How to visit
Getting there
Sapara is about 30 minutes by car or taxi south-east of Akhaltsikhe on a narrow mountain road. There is no regular public transport.
When to go
May to October. Plan 1-1.5 hours here.
- Dress modestly; women should bring a headscarf
- Check road conditions after rain or snow
- Combine with Rabati Castle for a half day from Akhaltsikhe
- Bring a warm layer, as the ridge is often breezy
Sapara Monastery: FAQ
How do you get to Sapara Monastery?
Take a taxi or drive from Akhaltsikhe; it is about 30 minutes each way on a narrow, winding road. Agree a waiting time with the driver, as there is no public transport back.
How old is Sapara Monastery?
Its oldest church, the Dormition, probably dates from the 10th century. The main church of St Saba was built by the Jaqeli princes in the 13th or 14th century, and its frescoes are from the 14th century.
Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Sapara Monastery.
