Otkhta Eklesia, Medieval monastery ruins in Artvin Province, Turkey.
Otkhta Eklesia is a medieval monastery in Artvin Province centered on a three-nave basilica. Auxiliary structures including a seminary and refectory remain visible around the main church building.
King David Kurapalat founded the monastery between 961 and 965 during a period of Georgian expansion in the region. The complex underwent major reconstruction work between 978 and 1001.
The monastery walls display faded frescoes that reveal how medieval Georgian artists decorated their sacred spaces. These painted surfaces offer visitors a glimpse into religious artistic traditions that were maintained across generations.
The site lies about 13 kilometers from Yusufeli and is reached via a partially unpaved road. Take the İspir road north from Tekkale village, so a vehicle with good ground clearance is advisable.
The complex features a two-level burial chapel in its southeast section, setting it apart from other religious structures in the region. This multi-story chamber allowed multiple burials to be housed in a compact space.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Deriner Dam
51.9 km
Oshki
23.1 km
Tortum Waterfall
23.9 km
Zilkale
45.7 km
Kaçkar Dağı
26.2 km
Ardanuç Castle
60.1 km
Atatürk Monument
49.8 km
Khakhuli Monastery
33.6 km
Çifte Bridge
52.1 km
Ishkhani
23.5 km
Şenyuva Bridge
46.5 km
Kaçkar Mountains National Park
31.6 km
Mençuna Waterfall
50 km
Parkhali
18.9 km
Doliskana
56.3 km
Fortress of Jikha
57.8 km
Palovit Waterfall
42.6 kmTar Deresi Bulut Waterfall
38.7 kmOltu Castle
53.4 km
Ağaran Waterfall
61.3 kmMikron Bridge
45.5 km
Gelintülü Waterfall
33.9 km
Ekeki Church
46.4 km
Mamatsminda Kilisesi
61.4 km
Çamlıhemşin Ham bridge
46.6 km
Çat Bridge
44.2 km
Tunca 2 bridge
45.1 km
Kafkasör
45.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes