Tsugrugasheni Monastery (Region of Kvemo Kartli)
Tsugrugasheni Monastery (Georg. წუღრუღაშენის მონასტერი), consecrated in honor of the Cross of St. George, is located at an altitude of 620 meters above sea level, above the small river Bolnisitskali (Georg. ბოლნისისწყალი) Poladauri (Georg. ფოლადაური).The area adjacent to the monastery can be considered one of the most beautiful places in Georgia – the river bank looks very picturesque in the rays of the setting sun.
Stylistically, the church resembles other Georgian medieval monuments. However, Tsugrugasheni has an unusually high dome. The church has a variety of complex stone ornaments on the outside, especially the dome. Previously, the interior was painted, but the frescoes suffered greatly over time. Three inscriptions were found on the walls of the church. Thanks to these inscriptions, scientists were able to conclude that the construction of the Tsugrugasheni temple took place during the reign of the Georgian king George IV, in 1212-1222.
In those days, this place was quite deserted, and today the picture has not changed much. This place remains quiet and secluded. There is a hiding place in the monastery: on the south side, next to the entrance door, there is a small fist-sized cavity where the Bolnisi cross is kept, surrounded by ornaments and a Georgian inscription. In addition to the hiding place, ornaments can be found on the interior walls; the interior of the monastery is also rich in religious subjects and icons.
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