Alaverdi Monastery
ალავერდის მონასტერი
The 11th-century Cathedral of St. George stands about 50 meters tall, and the monastery’s thousand-year-old cellar still makes qvevri wine. It is set against the Caucasus Mountains.
Alaverdi Monastery lies about 20 km north of Telavi, on the plain of the Alazani Valley. It was founded in the 6th century by Joseph of Alaverdi, one of the Assyrian Fathers. The surviving Cathedral of St. George was built in the early 11th century and is about 50 meters tall, long the tallest church in Georgia. Inside the church are remnants of medieval frescoes. The monks’ cellar in the complex continues the qvevri winemaking tradition, and tastings can be booked in advance. At the end of September each year, the traditional religious festival Alaverdoba is held. Dress modestly, with women wearing headscarves. Entry is free.
Opening hours
About 08:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Ikalto Monastery & Academy
- Old & New Shuamta Monasteries
- Twins Old Cellar & Qvevri Museum
- Batonis Tsikhe (King Erekle II Palace)
- Telavi Old Town & Giant Plane Tree
- Tsinandali Estate (Chavchavadze Museum)
- Gremi Citadel & Church of the Archangels
- Ninotsminda Cathedral