Ubisa Monastery - Image 1
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Ubisa Monastery Kutaisi Region

4.9
·173 reviews·Ubisa, Georgia

Discover Ubisa Monastery, a serene sanctuary in Georgia's Kutaisi region, famed for its stunning 14th-century frescoes by Damiane.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance

CrowdLow
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Ubisa Monastery - Image 1

Ubisa Monastery Kutaisi Region

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Ubisa Monastery, a serene sanctuary in Georgia's Kutaisi region, famed for its stunning 14th-century frescoes by Damiane.

4.9
(173 reviews)

"A beautiful, well-maintained historic church that is not overrun with many people. Highly recommended for its atmosphere and well-preserved beautiful frescoes."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:

Visit During Liturgy

Participate in a service for a deeply spiritual and authentic experience. :church:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

14th-Century Frescoes

14th-Century Frescoes

Interior of the church

Marvel at Damiane's masterpiece frescoes, renowned for their emotional depth and vibrant colors.

Serene Atmosphere

Serene Atmosphere

Monastery grounds

Experience profound peace amidst ancient walls and lush, natural surroundings.

Bat Sanctuary

Bat Sanctuary

Monastery interior (observed from a distance)

Witness a unique natural element with a colony of bats, adding a touch of wild charm.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To truly soak in the serene atmosphere of Ubisa Monastery, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist hours. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best chance for a peaceful experience, allowing you to appreciate the stunning frescoes without crowds.

Respectful Exploration

Ubisa Monastery is an active place of worship. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and be mindful of ongoing services. The presence of bats adds a unique charm, but observe them respectfully from a distance.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Golden hour light on frescoes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Church Saint George, Macedonia⛪️☦️☀️🇲🇰 The original Church of Saint George Monastery was built in 1071 by the Byzantine Emperor Roman IV Diogenes. As one of his many endowments, Serbian King Milutin restored thoroughtly the Nagoricane church in 1313 after the great victory against the Ottoman Turks. The church of Saint George Monastery in Staro Nagoricane features the base of elongated inscribed c...
@_marias111
54.9K likes • 419.8K views

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:

Visit During Liturgy

Participate in a service for a deeply spiritual and authentic experience. :church:

Faith 🤍☦️ - #orthodox #pravoslavlje #easternorthodox #Serbia #god #greece #beograd #jesus #cross #christ #church #christianity #fyp #icxcnika #religion #russia #stgeorge #sunday #monastery #svetog #religion
@eastern.orthodox_
44.9K likes • 216.2K views
St. George is a beloved saint to us all. His name brings joy to our hearts and a remembrance that ignites our souls. His life was anything but easy. His father, Anastasious, was martyred when St. George was still young. Yet this did not plant bitterness in his heart, in fact the opposite happened, it sparked fire within him to love Christ with all his heart.. even to death. When his mother passed,...
@rej0ice1
27.8K likes • 194.8K views

Appreciate the Art

Take time to study the incredible detail and emotion in the 14th-century frescoes. :art:

Observe Bats Respectfully

Enjoy the unique sight of bats, but keep a respectful distance. :bat:

Tips

from all over the internet

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:

Visit During Liturgy

Participate in a service for a deeply spiritual and authentic experience. :church:

Appreciate the Art

Take time to study the incredible detail and emotion in the 14th-century frescoes. :art:

Observe Bats Respectfully

Enjoy the unique sight of bats, but keep a respectful distance. :bat:

Easy Access

Getting to Ubisa Monastery is straightforward and hassle-free. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(173 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ubisa Monastery for its breathtaking 14th-century frescoes, which are considered masterpieces of Georgian art. The serene atmosphere and well-maintained grounds contribute to a peaceful and inspiring experience. Many find it a deeply spiritual and historically significant site, often noting the kindness of the resident monks.

"Ubisa Monastery is a beautiful and peaceful place, best known for its magnificent 14th-century frescoes painted by the artist Damiane. These frescoes are considered among the finest examples of Georgian monumental art, with incredible expression, emotion, and subtle use of color. The atmosphere here is truly serene, surrounded by ancient walls and lush greenery. A wonderful place to experience history, art, and peace all in one."

Николай Гвенетадзе

"What a magnificent place! Well taken care of and very special. Such an inspiration

And a sanctuary for bats (hope this won’t stop anyone from visiting) , I personally was very touched by seeing a hand full of tiny bats, it gives an extra special feeling."

Arina “Arina moves”

"Thanks to father byssee he is so kind and caring. We participated in his liturgy and I served the church."

Omid Abtahi (Daniel)

What People Like

Magnificent frescoes
Peaceful atmosphere
Well-maintained grounds

What People Dislike

Limited amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ubisa Monastery is easily accessible from Kutaisi by car, taking approximately 45-60 minutes. You can hire a taxi or rent a car for the most convenient journey. Public transport options are limited, so driving is highly recommended for a smooth trip. Reddit

Ubisa Monastery is often visited as part of a larger itinerary in the Imereti region, making it a convenient stop when exploring other nearby historical sites or natural attractions. Consider combining it with a visit to other monasteries or natural parks in the area.

The road leading to Ubisa Monastery is generally well-maintained, making for a pleasant drive. However, as with many rural roads, conditions can vary, so it's always good to be prepared for potential uneven patches. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically no entrance fee to visit Ubisa Monastery. Donations are always welcome and appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic site. Reddit

Ubisa Monastery is generally open daily from morning until evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to best appreciate the frescoes and surroundings. As an active monastery, it's best to avoid very early or late hours. Reddit

Photography inside the church, especially of the frescoes, may be restricted or discouraged to preserve the artwork. It's best to check with the monks or guides on site for specific photography rules. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The frescoes at Ubisa Monastery, painted by Damiane in the 14th century, are considered some of the finest examples of Georgian monumental art. They are celebrated for their expressive figures, emotional depth, and masterful use of color, offering a glimpse into medieval religious art. Reddit

Absolutely. Ubisa Monastery is renowned for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal location for quiet reflection, meditation, and spiritual contemplation. The lack of large crowds contributes to this tranquil environment. Reddit

Basic facilities might be available, but it's a monastic site, so don't expect extensive tourist amenities. It's wise to bring your own water and snacks. Restrooms may be available but could be very basic. Reddit

To truly appreciate the frescoes, take your time to observe the details, expressions, and colors. Consider visiting when the light is soft, such as in the morning or late afternoon, to enhance their visibility and impact. Reddit

While monks reside and worship at Ubisa Monastery, interactions may be limited. If you attend a liturgy or show genuine respect, you might have opportunities for brief, respectful exchanges. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture and the surrounding natural landscape offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Inside, focus on capturing the grandeur of the space if photography is permitted, but always prioritize respecting the sacred nature of the site. Reddit

Photography inside the church, especially of the frescoes, is often restricted to protect the delicate artwork. Always ask for permission from the monastery staff or monks before taking any photos inside. Reddit

Natural light is the primary source of illumination. Mornings and late afternoons offer softer, more atmospheric light that can beautifully highlight the frescoes and the monastery's architecture. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ubisa Monastery offers a unique educational and spiritual experience for families. While the focus is on the frescoes and the serene atmosphere, children can be engaged by the stories behind the art and the historical significance of the monastery. The relatively easy access and lack of overwhelming crowds make it manageable for families.

Encourage children to look for specific figures or colors in the frescoes, turning it into a visual scavenger hunt. The peaceful environment is also ideal for teaching children about respectful behavior in religious sites. The presence of bats can be a fascinating point of interest, sparking curiosity about nature. Reddit

🎨 Art and History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about art and history, Ubisa Monastery is a must-visit. The 14th-century frescoes by Damiane are a primary draw, offering a deep dive into Georgian medieval art. Take your time to study the techniques, symbolism, and emotional depth of these masterpieces.

Beyond the frescoes, the monastery itself is a historical artifact, representing centuries of religious and cultural heritage. Consider researching the history of the monastery and the artist beforehand to enhance your appreciation. The serene setting also allows for contemplative study of the site's historical context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Brilliance of Damiane's Frescoes

The frescoes adorning the interior of Ubisa Monastery are its crowning glory, painted by the renowned artist Damiane in the 14th century. These works are considered among the most significant examples of Georgian monumental art, celebrated for their profound emotional resonance and subtle, yet vibrant, color palette. Damiane's ability to capture the expressiveness and humanity of his subjects is truly remarkable, making each figure seem alive and relatable.

Visitors often describe being deeply moved by the artistry, noting the incredible detail in the faces and gestures of the saints and biblical figures. The frescoes depict various religious scenes and figures, offering a visual narrative that has endured for centuries. The preservation of these artworks is a testament to the monastery's care and the enduring power of faith and art.

Experiencing these frescoes is a highlight for many, providing a tangible connection to Georgia's rich artistic and spiritual heritage. The intimate scale of the monastery allows for a focused appreciation of Damiane's genius, making it a truly memorable encounter with medieval art. Reddit

A Sanctuary of Peace and Spirituality

Ubisa Monastery is more than just an art gallery; it's a living sanctuary that emanates a profound sense of peace and spirituality. The ancient stone walls, the quiet hum of devotion, and the surrounding natural beauty create an atmosphere conducive to reflection and inner calm. Many visitors report feeling a deep sense of tranquility upon arrival, a welcome respite from the bustle of everyday life.

The monastery's status as an active place of worship means that a genuine spiritual energy pervades the site. Visitors who have participated in the liturgy speak of a particularly moving and authentic experience, feeling connected to the community and the centuries of devotion that have taken place within these walls. This blend of historical significance, artistic splendor, and spiritual depth makes Ubisa Monastery a truly special destination.

The presence of bats, while unusual, adds another layer to the monastery's unique character, symbolizing a harmonious coexistence between human devotion and the natural world. This unexpected element often leaves visitors with a sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the monastery's holistic environment. Reddit

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