⛪ Gelati Monastery
Georgia
About This Sacred Site
Gelati Monastery, founded in 1106 by King David IV (David the Builder), was the premier intellectual center of medieval Georgia. The monastery complex includes the Church of the Virgin, the Church of St. George, and the Church of St. Nicholas, all adorned with stunning mosaics and frescoes. The Gelati Academy attached to the monastery was one of the most important centers of learning in the medieval Orthodox world, often called the 'Second Athens.' King David is buried in the entrance gateway so that all who enter walk over his tomb.
Key Facts
- •Founded in 1106 by King David IV 'the Builder'
- •UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994
- •The Gelati Academy was called the 'Second Athens'
- •King David is buried in the entrance gateway
- •Contains magnificent 12th-century mosaics and frescoes
Location
Coordinates: 42.2967, 42.7681
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