Bagrati Cathedral, Eastern Orthodox cathedral on Ukimerioni Hill, Kutaisi, Georgia
Bagrati Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox cathedral on Ukimerioni Hill with a tall drum and pointed dome supported by four freestanding pillars. The structure is built from distinctive green-tinted stones that can be seen from across Kutaisi, making it highly visible from many angles.
The structure was built in 1003 under King Bagrat III of Georgia. It suffered severe damage in 1692 when Ottoman forces destroyed its dome and ceiling.
The cathedral remains the main religious center of Kutaisi, where visitors can observe faithful believers participating in services and prayer throughout the day. Its distinctive silhouette and green stone construction have made it a defining landmark that residents and travelers immediately recognize.
The cathedral is open to visitors at no cost and can be freely explored. Religious services take place regularly throughout the day, offering visitors a chance to observe living religious practice.
During the 2009-2012 renovation, workers mixed ancient stones with modern materials in ways that led to the loss of its UNESCO World Heritage status. This choice remains debated among experts because it changed how the building is perceived and preserved.
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