Motsameta Monastery: A Cliffside Sanctuary

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Discover Motsameta Monastery: A serene Georgian sanctuary with stunning views, rich history, and the legendary crypt of wish fulfillment.

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Motsameta Monastery

Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Tskaltsitela River, Motsameta Monastery is a serene and historically significant site near Kutaisi, Georgia. Known as the 'Place of the Martyrs,' it honors the noble brothers David and Constantine Mkheidze, who were martyred in the 8th century for refusing to convert to Islam. The monastery offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Motsameta Monastery

7QJ5+WJ4, Motsameta, GE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Motsameta Monastery.

Dress modestly when visiting, as Motsameta is an active religious site.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Gelati Monastery via a scenic forest trail.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photography.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Kutaisi city center, a taxi is a convenient way to reach Motsameta Monastery. The ride typically takes around 15 minutes. Taxis are readily available throughout Kutaisi, and the fare to Motsameta is approximately 20-30 GEL. Be sure to negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey.
Public Transport

Alternatively, you can take a marshrutka (minibus) from Kutaisi to Motsameta. The marshrutka to Gelati Monastery passes near Motsameta, and you can get off at the main road and walk up the hill to the monastery. The marshrutka fare is around 3 GEL. From the main road, it's about a 20-30 minute walk uphill to the monastery. Check local transport schedules as they can be limited in rural areas.

Discover more about Motsameta Monastery

Motsameta Monastery, located 6 kilometers northeast of Kutaisi in the Imereti region, is a captivating monument to Georgian history and religious devotion. The monastery's name, meaning 'Place of the Martyrs,' stems from the tragic story of David and Constantine Mkheidze, two brothers who bravely resisted Arab invaders in the 8th century. They were tortured and killed for their faith, their bodies thrown into the Tskaltsitela River, which is said to have turned red with their blood. King Bagrat IV commissioned the construction of the present church in the 11th century on the site of an earlier church destroyed by Arab forces. The monastery is dedicated to the martyred brothers, who are now venerated as saints in the Georgian Orthodox Church. The monastery's architecture features a cross-dome structure, a bell tower, remnants of defensive towers, and a stone wall. One of the most intriguing aspects of Motsameta is the legend surrounding the crypt housing the relics of David and Constantine. It is believed that crawling under the crypt three times while making a wish will lead to its fulfillment. The monastery's location on a cliff promontory offers breathtaking views of the Tskaltsitela River and the surrounding Colchic forest. The journey to Motsameta is itself an experience, with the dense forest providing a beautiful backdrop regardless of the season. Today, Motsameta Monastery remains an active religious site, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The monastery commemorates the martyrdom of David and Constantine every year on October 15, drawing many believers to the site. Visitors are welcome to explore the monastery and its grounds, taking in the serene atmosphere and panoramic views.