Ruisi cathedral, Orthodox cathedral in Kareli Municipality, Georgia
Ruisi cathedral is an Orthodox church building with a cross-in-square design built from sandstone, basalt, limestone, and brick. The structure measures approximately 27.3 by 19.6 meters and features three rectangular doorways on its western, southern, and northern sides.
The oldest portions date to the 8th century, underwent major changes in the 11th century, and was rebuilt following Timur's invasion in 1400. These events shaped how the building was repeatedly adapted and recovered across the centuries.
The cathedral displays surviving medieval frescoes and a hand-carved iconostasis from 1781 that reflect traditional Georgian Orthodox artistic practices. These works show how much this place meant to local religious and artistic life.
The building is visible from the Gori-Khashuri highway, making it easy to spot when traveling through the area. You can approach from different directions and enter through one of the three doorways depending on where you arrive from.
The cathedral hosted the coronation ceremony of King George II in 1055 and later held a major church council convened by King David IV in 1103. These two key events linked this location to the highest levels of Georgian royal and ecclesiastical authority.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
