Ninotsminda Cathedral, Ancient Orthodox cathedral in Sagarejo Municipality, Georgia.
Ninotsminda Cathedral is an early medieval church in Sagarejo with portions of its eastern apse and western wall preserved, showing typical features of early Georgian religious architecture. The complex includes a three-story brick belltower from the 16th century that contained living quarters with fireplaces on each floor.
The cathedral was founded in 501 AD and underwent changes during the 10th and 11th centuries followed by restorations in 1671 and 1774. The fortified complex gained corner towers with crenellated machicolations and a crenellated wall during the 16th-17th centuries.
The remaining frescoes from the 18th century show the Mother of God, archangels, and apostles in the altar section, offering insight into religious imagery of that period. These works remain visible to visitors inside the structure today.
The site is located in a rural area, so it is best to arrive by car or organized transport since public transportation is limited. Visitors should plan to stay in nearby accommodations as the location is relatively remote.
The fortification features unusual corner towers with beehive-shaped machicolation projections, a rare architectural solution from military design. These details show how defensive structures were combined with organic forms in an inventive way.
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