Gantiadi church

Gantiadi church is a three-nave basilica built in the 6th century using limestone blocks and bricks of varying sizes. The structure shows typical early Christian construction methods from this era with visible stone joints and thick walls.

The church was built in 543 under Emperor Justinian I during the Christianization of the local population. Later it was partially destroyed by Ottoman forces in 1576, though the original basilica foundations survived.

The name reflects local roots and the spiritual importance this place held for early inhabitants in the region. Visitors today can still sense this religious significance when walking among the stone remains.

The site is reachable through the road network of Gagra district and sits in an open landscape. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since the ruins sit on uneven ground and access paths are rustic.

Archaeologists discovered a tombstone with Greek inscriptions at this location, offering insights into the burial practices of early inhabitants. The find shows that a mixed population with different cultural backgrounds lived and worshipped here.

Location: Gantiadi

Inception: 6 century

GPS coordinates: 43.37917,40.07083

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:05