Tsurtavi Monastery of Queen St. Ketevan

17 August 2017

Historical eparchy of Tsurtavi which existed independently is near present Bolnisi Municipality. Historic events are depicted in a hagiographic novel by Jacob the Priest “Martyrdom of the Holy Queen Shushanik”. In Tsurtavi village there is a fortress with a church named after Queen Shushanik. The fortress itself was for fortification and defense.  The above mentioned complex is dated to the 90s of XVIII century, between 1788-1798.  The Monastery of Queen St. Ketevan is from the same period as the fortress. It’s a hall church type and is an interesting symbol of religious-defensive construction. Its walls are slashed by loopholes. Tsurtavi fortress was reniewed or built by the orders of Queen Darejan, wife of Heraclius II of Georgia, who sent a letter to Russia in 1801, writing: “I’ve built a high stone fortress and a fence in Qolagiri”. This complex was built by Stephan the Architect. Restoration Works began in 1979 by restorer Ira Mosulishvili. Abutments, stairs, roofs, fireplaces etc. were restored on the whole perimeter of the fortress. Gates were also restored. Floor was paved in the church.

Distance to the tourist attractions (from municipality center) – 16 km.