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Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church: A Medieval Georgian Treasure

Discover medieval Georgian art and spirituality at Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church, nestled in the scenic Borjomi Gorge near Tsaghveri.

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Nestled in the Borjomi Gorge near Tsaghveri, the Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church is a medieval Georgian Orthodox monastic complex dating back to the 11th-18th centuries. The Church of the Dormition, built during the Golden Age of Georgia under Queen Tamar, showcases exquisite architecture and well-preserved frescoes, offering a glimpse into the country's rich artistic and spiritual heritage.

A brief summary to Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church

  • Tsaghveri-Kimotesubani-Tadzari, GE
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting the church. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate frescoes inside the main church.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park for hiking and exploring nature.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Borjomi, take a marshrutka (minibus) towards Tsaghveri. From Tsaghveri, you can take a taxi to the Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church. The church is located a short distance from Tsaghveri. Minibus fare from Borjomi to Tsagveri is approximately 1-2 GEL. A taxi from Tsaghveri to the church should cost around 10-15 GEL.

  • Taxi

    From Borjomi, a taxi directly to Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church is the most convenient option. The journey is approximately 30-40 minutes. Expect to pay around 40-60 GEL for the ride.

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Discover more about Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church

The Timothesubani Holy Dormition Church, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin, is a captivating monastic complex located in the village of Timotesubani, within the scenic Borjomi Gorge. This medieval Georgian Orthodox site, dating from the 11th to 18th centuries, stands as a testament to Georgia's rich cultural and religious history. The Church of the Dormition, the largest and most artistically significant structure within the complex, was constructed during the Golden Age of Georgia under the reign of Queen Tamar (1184–1213). The church's architecture features a domed cross-in-square design, built with pink stone and adorned with three apses projecting on the east. The dome rests upon two free-standing pillars and ledges of the altar. Later additions include western and southern portals. Inside, the church boasts vibrant and complex frescoes dating back to the 1220s. These murals, noted for their iconographic detail, have been carefully studied and conserved. The interior showcases some of the best examples of Georgian mural painting from the 13th century. Originally, the church had a blue roof, a color highly valued in the Middle Ages. The monastery complex also includes a small, single-nave basilica dating from the 11th-12th centuries, located north of the main church. The basilica, constructed in typical Georgian style, features an inscription referencing Shalva Akhaltsikheli, a prince and general of Queen Tamara, who is considered the church's founder. The entrance gate to the monastery, built in the Persian style with brick, stands approximately 20 meters south of the main church. Reconsecrated in 1994, the monastery is once again home to monks. Visitors can explore the historical significance of the church, admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and greenery, and experience the tranquil atmosphere of this spiritual haven.

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