Despite its modesty, the Kortskheli Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary is an architectural miracle, immersed in centuries-old history and spirituality. Lost in the picturesque expanses of Samegrelo, in the village of Kortskheli, Zugdidi municipality, this church is not only a monument of the 10th century, but also a witness to many historical vicissitudes.
Founded in the first half of the 17th century, thanks to the efforts of the Mingrelian mtavar (ruler) Levan II Dadiani, the temple inspires respect with its grandeur. Legend has it that Levan II himself and his queen Nestan-Darejan personally observed the process of restoration of the church, as evidenced by the fresco in the Tsalenjikha Church.
In 1815, the temple was renovated again by order of Didi Niko Dadiani, known as “Big Niko”, the chief judge of his time, whose burial took place right within the walls of the Kortskheli church.
Passing through centuries and experiencing a changing history, the temple has retained its soul and rich heritage, reflected in the unique minted icons of different eras. Part of this wealth can be seen in the Dadiani Museum, and the other three icons are presented in the Tbilisi Museum of Art.
However, it is not only the historical significance that makes a visit to the Kortskheli Church unforgettable. From here, magnificent panoramas of the surrounding area open up, where you can see the Svaneti mountain ranges, the small fertile plains of Abkhazia and the endless expanses of the Black Sea.
The temple itself, with its stone domed structure, protruding apses and facades lined with small stone squares, is an architectural work that reflects the spirit of the times and the faith of its creators. And even though the interior has lost many of its decorative elements, the frescoes on the altar and the western wall remind of the richness of the spiritual heritage.
Whoever sets foot on this land will be surrounded by the majestic beauty of nature and spiritual splendor, which have merged into one unique whole - the Kortskhel Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary.






















