Skhaltsi Church is a unique monument of medieval Georgian architecture, located in the valley of the Skhalta (Khikhani) River in the village of Kinchauri, Khulo Municipality, in the heart of Mountainous Adjara. This ancient temple, built in the 12th century, occupies a special place among other religious buildings in Georgia. The Skhalta Church is the only surviving example of medieval religious architecture with elements of monumental wall painting in the region.
Skhaltsi Church is of the hall type, with dimensions of approximately 25 steps in length and 12 steps in width and height. Initially, there were vestibules on the southern and western sides of the church, but only one arch has survived to this day. There was also an extension on the northern side, as evidenced by traces on the walls. Despite significant damage, many elements of the building have survived. Of particular interest is the eastern façade, on which you can see three beautiful ornaments in the shape of a cross.
Before the restoration, the building was in a dilapidated state and did not even have a roof. During the restoration work carried out in 1957 and 1989, the church was restored, and since 1990 it has again become the active cathedral of the Skhalta diocese. The interior walls of the church also retain traces of frescoes, which emphasizes the artistic and cultural significance of this place.
Determining the exact age of the Skhalta Church has become the subject of research by many scientists. For a long time, there were different opinions about the time of its construction. Some researchers dated it to the 10th-12th centuries, while others dated its construction to the 13th century. Local legends associate the construction of the temple with the name of the great Georgian queen Tamara.
Modern research confirms that the Skhaltskaya Church was built in the middle of the 12th century on the initiative of the influential Abuseridze family, who at that time occupied significant positions in the political and social life of the region. The construction of this temple became an important milestone in the history of Adjara and its spiritual life.
In addition to the temple, the Skhaltskaya Monastery Complex includes a wine cellar and tombs, which makes this place not only a religious, but also a cultural and historical center. There is also a medieval bridge in the Skhalta River Valley, which adds even more charm to this ancient place.
We invite you to visit the Skalta Church as part of the excursions in Mountainous Adjara with Travel Batumi. This trip will be an unforgettable immersion in the ancient history and culture of Georgia, where every corner keeps its unique past. Excursions include a tour of the church, wine cellar and tombs, as well as the opportunity to see the picturesque landscapes of the Skhalta River Valley.
With Travel Batumi you can not only learn about the history of this amazing place, but also enjoy its atmosphere and unique architecture, which will forever remain in your memory.