Bagrati Cathedral: the medieval symbol of Kutaisi
Atop a hill above Kutaisi, Bagrati Cathedral dominates the city with the authority of a thousand years of history. Built in the 11th century during the reign of King Bagrat III, it was once the largest and most majestic temple in all of Georgia. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 — together with Gelati Monastery — though it was removed from the list in 2017 due to the controversial restoration.
History: from glory to Ottoman cannon
The cathedral was built between 1003 and 1018 under King Bagrat III, who unified the western Georgian kingdoms. For centuries it was the symbol of the power and faith of western Georgia. In 1692, the Ottomans partially destroyed it with gunpowder during their conquest of Kutaisi: they blew up the roof and central columns, leaving the church in ruins for three centuries.
The 21st-century restorations rebuilt the roof and part of the interior, generating intense controversy between those who wanted to preserve the authentic ruins and those who preferred to restore the original splendour. UNESCO removed the site from its list in 2017 for precisely this reason.
Architecture: medieval Georgian style at its peak
Bagrati Cathedral is a masterful example of medieval Georgian architecture: inscribed-cross plan, central dome, decorated apses and facades with finely carved sculptural reliefs. The carved capitals that survived the Ottoman destruction reveal the mastery of 11th-century Georgian craftsmen.
How to visit Bagrati and combine it with Gelati
The cathedral is 10 minutes' walk from Kutaisi city centre. Climb Bagrati Street to the hill; from the top you have an exceptional panoramic view of the city and the Rioni River. Combine it with Gelati Monastery (11 km away) for a complete visit to Kutaisi's medieval heritage. Entry is free.
Frequently asked questions
Why was Bagrati removed from the UNESCO list?
In 2017, UNESCO removed Bagrati Cathedral from its World Heritage List due to the controversial restoration works carried out between 2009 and 2012, which rebuilt parts of the church using modern materials, altering its historical authenticity. Gelati Monastery remains on the list.
When was Bagrati Cathedral built?
Between 1003 and 1018 AD, during the reign of King Bagrat III of Georgia. It was one of the most ambitious architectural projects of early medieval Georgia.
Can Bagrati be combined with a visit to Prometheus Cave?
Yes, perfectly. From Kutaisi, Prometheus Cave is 20 km away. A taxi can cover the Bagrati → Gelati → Prometheus Cave route in a full day from Kutaisi.