Gelati Monastery
გელათის მონასტერი
A medieval monastery and academy founded in 1106 by King David the Builder. It is a World Heritage Site famous for its gold mosaics and frescoes.
Gelati Monastery sits on a hillside about 11 km northeast of Kutaisi. It was founded by David IV of Georgia, known as David the Builder, a monarch of Georgia's Golden Age. The monastery once served as a center of learning, nicknamed the 'second Athens.' The 12th-century Virgin and Child mosaic in the apse of the main church, the Church of the Virgin Mary, and its frescoes covering the walls are the pinnacle of Georgian medieval art. King David himself is buried beneath the south entrance. Admission is free, but dress modestly: women should cover their heads, and shorts are not allowed. A round-trip taxi from the city costs about 20–30 lari. The monastery is often visited together with Motsameta Monastery.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–18:00 (religious site; hours may vary on site)
Nearby sights
- Motsameta Monastery
- Kutaisi Botanical Garden
- Bagrati Cathedral
- Colchis Fountain
- Kutaisi State Historical Museum
- Kutaisi Green Bazaar (Central Market)
- White Bridge
- Kutaisi Cable Car & Gabashvili Park