Parekhi, Orthodox monastery and castle in Ortaköy, Turkey.
Parekhi is a monastery and castle standing at about 780 meters elevation in a mountainous setting, featuring medieval stone structures with Georgian architectural elements. The site combines religious and military building forms within a single complex.
The site emerged in the early Middle Ages as a center of Orthodox Christianity in the eastern region and was connected to Georgian cultural development. Over time, changing political control and regional conflicts shaped the history of this place.
The monastery displays Georgian Orthodox building methods that reflect the religious beliefs and craftsmanship of medieval Christian communities in this region. The stonework and layout tell of a place where faith and defense existed together.
The mountainous setting requires sturdy footwear and adjusted hiking gear for exploring the terrain. Travel by local transport from nearby urban centers is possible, with enough time needed for access and walking through the site.
The complex shows a rare pairing of religious spaces and military installations, both anchored in the same stonework. This side-by-side arrangement illustrates how places of faith also served as fortifications in uncertain times.
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