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Bagrati Cathedral: A Symbol of United Georgia

Explore Bagrati Cathedral in Kutaisi, a symbol of unified Georgia with stunning architecture and a rich, though turbulent, history.

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Perched atop Ukimerioni Hill in Kutaisi, Bagrati Cathedral is an 11th-century architectural marvel and a powerful symbol of Georgia's unified kingdom under King Bagrat III. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a must-see landmark, despite past destruction and controversial restoration.

A brief summary to Bagrati Cathedral

  • Monday 10 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-8 pm
  • Friday 10 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a Sunday between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to witness a traditional religious ceremony.
  • The cathedral is especially beautiful during sunset, offering stunning views of Kutaisi.
  • Admission is free, but a respectful dress code is required.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Kutaisi city center, the cathedral is a moderately steep uphill walk. Start from Rustaveli Avenue and head north, following signs for Bagrati Cathedral. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Local minibuses (Marshrutka) run from various points in Kutaisi to Bagrati Cathedral. Look for minibuses with signs indicating 'Bagrati'. A single fare costs approximately 0.5 GEL. The ride takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on the starting point and traffic.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Kutaisi. A short taxi ride from the city center to Bagrati Cathedral typically costs between 3-5 GEL, depending on the distance and traffic. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Yandex Taxi are also available.

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Discover more about Bagrati Cathedral

Bagrati Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Dormition, stands as a testament to Georgia's rich history and architectural prowess. Constructed in 1003 during the reign of King Bagrat III, it quickly became a symbol of a unified Georgia, a beacon of national pride and religious significance. The cathedral's location on Ukimerioni Hill offers stunning panoramic views of Kutaisi and the surrounding Imereti region. The cathedral's design marked a new era in medieval Georgian architecture, with its cruciform plan and four free-standing piers supporting a majestic dome. The interior was once adorned with intricate mosaics, and richly carved gates provided entry from the west and south. A three-story tower in the northwest corner likely served as the bishop's residence. Throughout its history, Bagrati Cathedral has faced numerous challenges. In 1692, invading Ottoman troops devastated the cathedral with cannon fire, causing the dome and ceiling to collapse. The cathedral was further damaged in the 18th century during battles between Georgian and Ottoman forces. Despite these trials, the cathedral remained an important symbol for the Georgian people. Restoration efforts began in the 1950s and continued for several decades, culminating in a controversial reconstruction in 2012. While the restoration aimed to preserve the cathedral's original image and style, the extent of the reconstruction led to UNESCO removing Bagrati Cathedral from its list of World Heritage sites. Today, Bagrati Cathedral remains a significant landmark in Kutaisi, attracting visitors with its historical importance and architectural grandeur. Regular religious services are held, and it is a popular location for weddings. Despite its complex history and the controversies surrounding its restoration, Bagrati Cathedral continues to be a powerful symbol of Georgian identity and a reminder of the nation's rich cultural heritage.

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