Located 20 km from Telavi is a Kakheti relic, one of the most well-known medieval temples in Georgia – Alaverdi cathedral (located in the settlement with the same name). It was built in the beginning of the 11 th century and was one of the tallest structures of the time. The temple was built on the site of a small church of St. George . The temple is still called St. George Cathedral (Tsminda Georgi).
Alaverdi cathedral was repeatedly destroyed. Its first restoration was accomplished in the 15 th century. The second one was in the 18 th century after the disastrous earthquake. Restorations have changed the cathedral a little but nevertheless it remains the outstanding example of medieval Georgian architecture. The cathedral is n architectural complex surrounded by a fortification. The complex includes medieval refectory, the bell tower with fencing and the summer palace. The main building of the cathedral is of rectangular form. Its center is crowned with the dome resting on a high drum. But in fact the most amazing is its interior . The high dome increases the feeling of space infinity . Alaverdi Cathedral has the fragments of wall paintings of the 9 th , 15 th and 17 th centuries. From the 17 th to the 18 th centuries there was the dwelling for women of imperial descent who took the veil.
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