Zarzma monastery, Medieval Orthodox monastery in Samtskhe-Javakheti, Georgia.
Zarzma monastery is a complex in Samtskhe-Javakheti featuring a central domed church, a bell tower, and several smaller churches arranged in a cross pattern. The layout reflects careful planning that developed over multiple centuries.
The monastery was founded in the 8th century by Monk Serapion and underwent major renovation during the 14th century under Prince Beka I. These two periods show how the site adapted to changing needs over time.
The monastery walls display frescoes with religious scenes and depictions of saints, reflecting artistic traditions from medieval Georgia. These wall paintings show how monks expressed their spiritual understanding through visual art.
The site is maintained by an active monastic community and welcomes visitors interested in religious architecture and medieval Georgian history. Allow time to explore the different structures and examine the religious artwork carefully.
The bell tower was converted into the Church of Saint John the Apostle in 1577, showing how monks flexibly repurposed structures as needs changed. This transformation reveals how the monastery continuously adapted to practical requirements.
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