Gergeti Trinity Church
A medieval church on a cliff at 2,170 metres, framed by the Kazbek snow peak — the most striking landmark in the Caucasus.
Overview
Gergeti Trinity Church was built in the 14th century on a cliff at about 2,170 metres beneath Mount Kazbek, which rises to 5,047 metres in the Greater Caucasus. The walk up crosses beautiful alpine meadows, and on a clear day the combination of snow peak and church is the most iconic image of the Caucasus and a place of pilgrimage for photographers.
History
The church was built in the 14th century as a monastery and became an important spiritual centre for the mountain communities of the Caucasus. During the Soviet era religious activity was suppressed and the church was used for other purposes, but it returned to religious use after Georgian independence and remains an active place of worship.
Highlights
- •The church framed by the snow peak
- •Alpine hiking
- •The village of Kazbegi below
Practical tips
- •A four-wheel drive is needed for the upper track
- •Bring warm clothing for the altitude
Practical information
- Best time
- June to September
- Tickets
- Free
- Opening hours
- Open all day
- Local food
- Georgian dumplings, grilled meat and wine
- Getting around
- Mtskheta is about 30 minutes from Tbilisi by bus or hired car
- Visa
- Chinese citizens may enter visa-free for stays of up to 30 days with a passport valid for at least six months.
Traveller reviews
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