Nekresi Monastery: A Kakhetian Sanctuary Through the Ages

Discover Nekresi Monastery: An ancient Georgian monastic complex with stunning views and a rich history dating back to the 4th century.

4.9

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Nestled in the eastern Kakheti region of Georgia, the Nekresi Monastery is a captivating complex with roots stretching back to the 4th century. Founded by St. Abibos Nekreseli, one of the thirteen Assyrian Fathers, it stands as a testament to Georgia's enduring Christian heritage and offers stunning views of the Alazani Valley.

A brief summary to Nekresi

Nekresi Monastery Road, GE
Visit website

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 3 pm-5:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes as the monastery is located on a hilltop and involves some walking.
Bring a scarf or shawl to cover your head when entering the churches.
Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Allow at least 1.5 hours for a thorough visit to appreciate the history and surroundings.
From mid-April to mid-December, take advantage of the shuttle (marshrutka) service from the parking area to the monastery entrance.

Getting There

Car

The most convenient way to reach Nekresi Monastery is by car. From Tbilisi, take the Kakheti Highway to Telavi, then follow signs to Kvareli and Nekresi. Be aware that roadworks on the Gombori Pass may add 30-45 minutes to the journey. Once you arrive at the designated parking area (approximately 1.5km from the monastery), you can either walk uphill or take a shuttle bus (marshrutka) for a small fee (1 GEL round trip, available from mid-April to mid-December).
Public Transport

Take a minibus from Tbilisi's Ortachala Bus Station to Kvareli. The journey takes approximately 2h 40m and costs $4. From Kvareli, you can hire a taxi to the monastery or take a local bus towards Shilda village and walk the remaining distance. From the parking lot below the monastery, a shuttle bus (marshrutka) is available for the final ascent (1 GEL round trip, available from mid-April to mid-December).
Walking

From the parking area, a steep path leads up to the monastery complex. The walk takes around 20 minutes. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.

Discover more about Nekresi

The Nekresi Monastery, perched on a wooded hillside in Kakheti, is a remarkable journey through Georgian history and faith. Established in the 6th century by St. Abibos Nekreseli, the complex evolved from an ancient city dating back to the 2nd century BC. The site's strategic location offered panoramic views and a spiritual haven for monks and pilgrims alike. Nekresi's story is interwoven with Georgia's conversion to Christianity. The monastery played a pivotal role in spreading the faith to the mountainous regions of the Eastern Caucasus, becoming a center of learning and manuscript preservation. Architectural highlights include the Small Basilica, one of Georgia's oldest churches (4th century), a three-church basilica (6th-7th centuries), and a domed church (9th century). Over the centuries, Nekresi faced numerous invasions, including partial destruction during the Arab invasions. However, it was later restored and continued to be a vital religious and cultural hub. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, churches adorned with medieval frescoes, and the Bishop's Palace with its wine cellar. Nekresi offers a unique glimpse into Georgia's past, where ancient traditions blend with breathtaking natural beauty.