Bagrati Cathedral

Location

Bagrati Cathedral, found in western Georgia in the city of Kutaisi and is the hallmark of the city. The cathedral is located on a hill, on the mountain Ukmerioni, so it can be seen from anywhere in the city. In order to get to the temple, one must climb the winding streets of cobbled granite. Already at the entrance are visible the remains of the city walls and towers. The courtyard is covered with a pleasant green grass carpet cut by white sandy paths. In the middle of the courtyard there is a huge cathedral building that impresses with its size and architecture. In front of the temple there is a large Christian cross. On one side of the courtyard offers a beautiful view of the city. Tourists in large quantities visit the cathedral.

Construction history

Bagrati Cathedral began to build in the X century under the leadership of King Bagrati III Bagrationi and finished 1003 year. It was the “golden age” of Georgia, the country was strong, rich and had recognition. The cathedral was the personification of power. King Bagrati, whose name is named cathedral, five years after the end of construction began the struggle for the unification of Georgia. Later his work was continued by David the Builder, who was crowned in this cathedral. Bagrati Cathedral stands out among other Georgian churches. This is the only cathedral of this size built on a mountain. Stucco molding and carving in the temple, as well as the remains of a mosaic on the floor give an idea of ​​the skill of Georgian architects and artists of the golden age. Bagrati Cathedral as well as other churches of Georgia was a cultural and religious center, here young people were taught the Georgian language, as well as various sciences. In addition, in times of enemy raids, people were hiding here. It was also the place where the dead were buried, crowned kings were crowned, celebrations were held and married, in other words, all important events took place within these walls. The Christian faith rallied people and strengthened the state, which King Bagrat was so eager for.

Newest history

Not many frescoes have survived to the present day, especially it is possible to note the mural depicting the Virgin Mary, on it is well preserved the inscription, which indicates the date of construction of the temple. Bagrati Cathedral stood for a long time, for five centuries, in its original form, only in the XVII century it received significant damage when Kutaisi captured the Ottomans, the roof collapsed from an explosion of gunpowder and of course the entire temple was greatly damaged. A few years later, the entire eastern part of the defensive fortress was destroyed. 1994 Bagrati Temple entered the UNESCO World Heritage List. In 2010, restoration work began on the restoration of the temple and today it has regained its original appearance. 2012 on the dome erected a cross. The church returned to the church and there are already held worship services.