Gelati

Gelati Monastery was and is one of the most important centers of Georgian spirituality and culture. It was founded in 1106 by King David IV the Builder, during a period when Georgia was gaining political strength and experiencing a cultural revival.

The monastery is located near Kutaisi, on a hill, from which beautiful views of the nature of Imereti open up. Gelati was not only a religious, but also an educational center - an academy functioned here, which was often called the “New Athens”. Famous Georgian scientists and philosophers studied and worked here.

Architecturally, Gelati is an outstanding example of medieval Georgian architecture. The interior of the temple is special with its unique frescoes and mosaics, especially the mosaic of the Virgin Mary, which dates back to the 12th century and is influenced by Byzantine art.

David the Builder himself is buried in the Gelati Monastery — his tomb is located at the main entrance to the monastery, symbolically expressing his modesty and spiritual attitude.

In 1994, the Gelati Monastery was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a monument of outstanding historical and cultural value.

Gelati remains a symbol of Georgian identity, spirituality, and education to this day — a place where history, architecture, and faith come together.