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Church of Kala 'Lagurka': Svaneti's Sacred Shrine

Discover Lagurka, the Church of Kala: a sacred Svaneti shrine with medieval frescoes, rich history, and stunning mountain views.

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The Church of Kala, also known as Lagurka, is a revered medieval church in the village of Vichnashi, nestled in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region of Georgia. Dedicated to Saints Cyricus and Julitta, it stands as a principal Christian shrine in Upper Svaneti, celebrated for its stunning frescoes and historical significance.

A brief summary to Church of Kala - 'Lagurka'

  • WWQ4+JPH, Vichnashi, GE

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for a tranquil experience and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Dress modestly to respect local customs when entering the church.
  • Check for available guided tours to gain deeper insights into the church's history and artwork.
  • Explore the surrounding nature trails for breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Church of Kala 'Lagurka' via public transport, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Mestia to the village of Vichnashi. This service runs regularly throughout the day, with a typical fare of around 2-3 GEL. Upon arriving in Vichnashi, the church is within walking distance; ask the driver or locals for directions.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Vichnashi, the Church of Kala 'Lagurka' is easily accessible on foot. From the village center, head towards the main road. The church is located at WWQ4+JPH, a short distance from the main thoroughfare. Look for a path leading to the church; if uncertain, ask locals for guidance.

  • Car

    When driving to the Church of Kala 'Lagurka', head towards Mestia in Svaneti. From Mestia, take the road towards Vichnashi. The church is located just off the main road in Vichnashi at coordinates 42.939067, 42.9068679. Once in Vichnashi, follow signs for the church or ask locals for directions. Parking may be available near the church.

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Discover more about Church of Kala - 'Lagurka'

Nestled high above the village of Khe, in the Kala territorial unit of Mestia Municipality, the Church of Kala, or 'Lagurka,' is a testament to Georgia's rich religious and cultural heritage. Perched on the left bank of the upper Enguri River at approximately 2200 meters above sea level, this sacred site is dedicated to the early Christian martyrs Cyricus and Julitta, who are venerated as the patron saints of the Kala community. Lagurka is considered the holiest shrine by the Svans, with their most binding oaths taken on the icons preserved within its walls. The church hosts an annual all-Svan festival and pilgrimage, Kvirikoba, held every July 28th. According to historian Ekvtime Taqaishvili, Lagurka holds a similar significance for the Svans as Delphi did for the ancient Greeks, symbolizing their unity. The church's architecture dates back to sometime between the late 10th and early 12th centuries. Constructed from yellowish limestone blocks, the hall church measures 5 x 2.70 meters. Annexes were added to the south and north at a later date, along with a two-story bell tower that also serves as the narthex. Originally, the church had three entrances, but today it can only be accessed through a doorway cut in the south annex. The interior features a semicircular apse separated from the nave by a stone tripartite iconostasis. Lagurka is adorned with frescoes painted by Tevdore in 1111/1112, representing a high point of medieval Georgian monumental art. These frescoes, commissioned during the reign of King David the Builder, depict scenes such as the martyrdom of St. Cyricus and St. Julitta, as well as scenes from the gospels. The church also houses valuable icons of Kvirike and Ivlita from the 10th and 11th centuries, considered to be of great religious, material, historical, and cultural importance.

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