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Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church: A Georgian Architectural Gem

Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church, a historical treasure in the heart of Georgia.

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Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church, located in the village of Ertatsminda, is a stunning example of 13th-century Georgian Orthodox architecture. This cross-domed church, adorned with intricate carvings and frescoes, offers visitors a glimpse into Georgia's rich cultural and religious history.

A brief summary to Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church

  • Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary on different days.
  • Wear appropriate attire when visiting the church, as it is a place of worship.
  • Take your time to explore the grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church is located approximately 20 km from the city of Kaspi. From Kaspi, follow the road towards Ertatsminda village. The drive takes around 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the Georgian countryside. Taxis are available in Kaspi, with fares typically ranging from 20-30 GEL.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church via public transport, take a train or minibus from Tbilisi to Kaspi. From the Kaspi railway or bus station, hire a taxi to Ertatsminda village. Train tickets from Tbilisi to Kaspi cost approximately 4-9 GEL, and the journey takes around 1 hour. Minibus fares are around 2 GEL and take 1.5 hours. The taxi from Kaspi to Ertatsminda will cost approximately 20-30 GEL.

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Discover more about Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church

Nestled in the heart of Georgia's Shida Kartli region, the Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church stands as a remarkable testament to the country's medieval architectural prowess. Dating back to the 13th century, this Orthodox church, also known as the Cathedral of Eustathius of Mtskheta, is located in the village of Ertatsminda, Kaspi Municipality. The name "Ertatsminda" is derived from "Estatetsminda," meaning Saint Eustace in Georgian. The church's architecture is a prime example of the cross-domed style prevalent during Georgia's Golden Age. Built with carefully hewn blocks of yellow sandstone, the church features a dome resting on the corners of the apse wall projections to the east and two piers to the west. The facades are decorated with luxurious ornaments, including framed double windows with carved crosses. The eastern facade features niches adorned with trefoil scallops and a sculptural depiction of St. Eustace hunting. Inside, fragments of 17th-century murals depict scenes from the lives of St. Eustace and St. George. Throughout its history, Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church has undergone several restorations, reflecting its resilience in the face of earthquakes and invasions. The church served as a family burial place for the Saakadze family, including the head of Paata Saakadze, son of a controversial military commander. Today, the church welcomes visitors to admire its architectural beauty, explore its spiritual ambiance, and appreciate its historical significance.

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