Background

Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church: A Testament to Georgian Resilience

Discover the medieval Georgian architecture and serene atmosphere of Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church, a symbol of resilience and history.

4.9

Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church, located in the village of Ertatsminda, is a 13th-century Georgian Orthodox church showcasing cross-domed architecture and intricate stone carvings. The church has been rebuilt several times due to earthquakes and invasions, and it stands as a symbol of Georgian resilience.

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

  • Dress modestly when visiting the church to respect local customs.
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Take a walk around the gardens surrounding the church for reflection and relaxation.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already in the village of Ertatsminda, the church is located approximately 1 kilometer from the village center. Head northeast along the main road, and you will see the church on your right. The walk should take about 15-20 minutes.

  • Taxi

    From Tbilisi, a taxi to Ertatsminda costs approximately $62-121. Taxis can be found throughout Tbilisi, or pre-booked through services like GoTrip. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering scenic views of the Georgian countryside.

Unlock the Best of Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church

Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church, or the Cathedral of Eustathius of Mtskheta, is a remarkable example of medieval Georgian architecture, located in the Shida Kartli region. Situated in the heart of Ertatsminda village, Kaspi Municipality, this 13th-century church attracts visitors with its historical significance and architectural beauty. The name "Ertatsminda" is derived from "Estatetsminda," which means St. Eustace in Georgian. The church's architecture showcases a cross-domed design constructed with carefully hewn blocks of yellow sandstone. The dome rests on the corners of the apse wall projections on the east side and on two piers to the west. The facades are adorned with framed double windows and ornamented crosses, displaying intricate stone-carved ornaments. The eastern facade features two deep niches covered with conical vaults and decorated with trefoil scallops. A notable sculptural depiction of St. Eustace hunting can be seen on the impost of the left arch. Inside, fragments of murals painted in 1654 during the reign of King Rostom and Queen Mariam depict scenes from the lives of St. Eustace and St. George. The church also holds a relic of historical significance: the head of Paata Saakadze, son of the politician Giorgi Saakadze, who was beheaded in 1625. The church served as a burial place for the Saakadze family and their descendants. The complex includes the church, a wall, a bell tower, and remains of monastic buildings.

Popular Experiences near Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church

Popular Hotels near Ertatsminda Saint Estate Church

Select Currency