Sitting on the side of a mountain a few kilometers from Kutaisi, is the Motsameta Monastery.  It was built by King Bagrati in the 11th century on the site of an old

church that had been destroyed by Arabs in the 8th century. Two brothers, Konstantine and David, the lords of the region,were murdered for refusing to convert to Islam..Their bodies were then thrown into the valley below.

Their recovered remains are interred here.. and are considered sacred..The name Motsameta means “martyr”..

It’s a pretty place to visit..but be aware that most of the church is off-limits to foreigners, so other than the grounds and a few exteriors, there isn’t much to see..  It makes for a good side trip from the Gelati Monastery .. and the views from the parapets are awesome..

Travel with Steve                         Photography as Art

 Prints from Fine Art America

HAPPY TRAVELS!!