Otkhta Monastery Complex (Region of Klarjeti)
The monastery complex (four) (Geor. ოთხთას სამონასტრო კომპლექსი, Tur. Dört kilise manastıri) is located in the Geogian historical region – Klarjeti (Georg. კლარჯეთი), in the province of Artvin (Georg. ართვინი) of modern Turkey. The monastery complex, in fact, consisted of four churches. The ruins of one of them have been preserved in the center of modern village – Tekkale (Tur. Tekkale). The remains of other churches, including the main cathedral, the three-aisled basilica – Othta Church (Georg. ოთხთას ეკლესია, Tur. Othta Eklesia), are built on the hills to the west of the village. According to historical sources, the basilica was built by the Georgian king David III (Kuropalati, Georg. კუროპალატი), in 961-965. By his own efforts, in 987-1001, the temple was rebuilt and finished.
Church of Otkhta is built of large square bricks and worked stone. The central nave, enlarged by narrowed side naves, is the dominant element. The facades are decorated with decorative arches. The temple was painted at a very high level and from this point of view, it was the most important monument of Georgian monumental art painting. The painting is distinguished by solemnity, outstanding craftsmanship, expression of line and color. Unfortunately, today the frescoes are badly damaged. Over the years, water has brought a large amount of earth and small stones into the temple. Around the altar, the earth was dug up. There is an opinion in Turkey that huge riches are buried in Georgian temples, and people are still trying to find it.
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