Pitareti Monastery

Pitareti Monastery is a stone complex positioned on elevated ground above the Kcia river gorge, featuring a central church, bell tower, and surrounding defensive walls. The site includes secondary structures that reflect the daily operations and needs of monastic life.

The monastery was founded between 1213 and 1222 during the reign of Lasha-George and houses tombstones of notable figures from that era. This period represented a flourishing time for Georgian kingdom's cultural development.

The main church displays intricate stone carvings and preserved frescoes from the 13th century, representing medieval Georgian artistic traditions. The walls record through their decorations the artistic skills and religious beliefs of the monks who lived here.

The monastery lies about 12 kilometers southwest of Tetritskaro and remains open year-round for visitors interested in religious architecture. The elevated location means visitors should expect some walking on uneven ground.

The monastery houses a medieval wine cellar and agricultural structures that show how monks produced their own food and drink. These facilities demonstrate that the community operated as a fully self-contained unit independent from the surrounding region.