Nikortsminda Cathedral, Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti, Georgia.
Nikortsminda Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox church in Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti featuring a central dome resting on five interior apses. Twelve windows set in the dome drum allow natural light to flood the interior throughout the day.
Construction started in 1001 under the reign of King Bagrat III, a pivotal period for Georgian religious building. The structure faced significant deterioration over the following centuries and required substantial restoration work.
Stone carvings on the outer walls depict religious scenes such as the Transfiguration and the Last Judgment. These sculptures served as a visual way to teach spiritual stories to all visitors, regardless of their literacy.
The building sits at roughly 1217 meters elevation in a mountainous area, so expect some elevation gain when visiting. Regular visiting is permitted for both worship and those interested in the architecture and art within.
The interior space displays a rare six-conch layout within a rectangular structure, an unusual architectural choice for its era. This distinctive design makes it stand out from typical church plans seen elsewhere in the region.
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