St. Mary's Church, Tskhinvali

St. Mary's Church is an Armenian-style church building in Tskhinvali with a prominent dome and walls constructed from dressed stone blocks. The facade features carved crosses and arched openings characteristic of Armenian religious architecture from the 18th century.

This structure was built in 1718, establishing an important place of worship in the city. The building sustained significant damage during armed conflict in the region during August 2008.

The religious structure incorporates Armenian architectural elements, reflecting the presence and influence of Armenian traditions in the South Ossetia region.

The church is located in the city center and can be reached on foot from main streets, though access to the broader region can be challenging. It is advisable to check local conditions before visiting and observe any guidance from local authorities.

A large stone block near the entrance bears carved inscriptions that record the founding and its connection to Armenian religious traditions. This inscription offers visitors direct insight into the documentation practices and beliefs that mattered to the original builders.

Location: Tskhinvali

Inception: 1718

Architectural style: Armenian architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.21861,43.96694

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:20