Tskhrakara monastery, Orthodox monastery in Kakheti, Georgia
Tskhrakara monastery is a complex of several churches and monastic buildings enclosed by a low wall in the mountains near Matani town. The main structure is a rectangular three-nave basilica with additional chapels that were built in different periods.
The monastery was built in the 5th century as the main church, while two additional churches were added in the 8th century. This expansion shows the growing importance of the site for the Orthodox community in the Kakheti region.
The monastery displays Georgian Orthodox building styles through its carefully cut stones and interior wall paintings from the 15th century. These frescoes and stonework give a sense of the craftsmanship that was common during that era.
The site lies about 3 to 5 kilometers west of Matani in the Akhmeta district and is under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Alaverdi. Access follows local mountain roads, so planning ahead with local guidance helps visitors find the way.
The eastern section of the complex has an apse with a distinctive sliding axial design that is uncommon in Georgian monastery architecture. This technical solution reflects local building traditions and shapes the interior of the structure in an unusual way.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
