Martvili Monastery (Chkondidi)
მარტვილის მონასტერი
The most important monastery in the Samegrelo region, built on the site of an ancient sacred oak on a hilltop, founded in the 7th century, with views over the plains and the Caucasus.
Martvili Monastery (Chkondidi) sits on a hilltop beside the town of Martvili. Legend says a giant oak once stood here and was revered by pagans; after Christianity arrived, the tree was felled and a church built in its place. The main church that survives was largely rebuilt in the 10th century and contains medieval frescoes. The setting is peaceful. Admission is free, but dress modestly. The monastery is about 6 km from the Martvili Canyon and is usually visited on the same trip.
Opening hours
Open daytime
Nearby sights
- Martvili Canyon
- Balda Canyon
- Okatse Canyon
- Nokalakevi
- Kinchkha Waterfall
- Prometheus Cave
- Tskaltubo
- Sataplia Nature Reserve