Church of Gagra, Eastern Orthodox church in Gagra, Georgia.
The Church of Gagra is an Eastern Orthodox place of worship with three internal naves built from rough ashlar stone and arranged to allow light through multiple windows. The eastern doorway displays traditional Georgian crosses as decorative elements.
The building was founded in the 6th century by the Anchabadze dynasty and has been part of the region's story since then. Early in the 20th century it underwent major renovation work and was dedicated to Saint Hypatius.
The church is dedicated to Saint Hypatius; one tradition holds that the relics of Hypatius of Gagra rest here, another that the patron is Hypatius of Gangra. On the west facade, a Bolnisi cross in a circle is set into the masonry, the same motif found at Svetitskhoveli and Bolnisi Sioni. Since 2012 it has again served as an active Orthodox church.
The building stands near the Abaata Fortress ruins, making it easy to explore both sites during a single visit. Keep in mind this is an active place of worship, so visitors should dress appropriately and show respect for those present.
After serving as a weapons museum during the Soviet era, religious services resumed here in 2012. This shift marks the building's return to spiritual use following decades of a different purpose.
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