Brilliant spot, the Monastery is all refurbished and beautiful, the grave of the two Georgian princes killed by the Arabs is quite shocking but a must see. Down the cliff, there is a canyon both sides, wonderful scenery!
Not so historically interesting as the Gelati Monastery across the valley but in more spectacular setting. See the recovered skulls of the saints David and Constantine Mkheidze, brothers killed by Arabs for refusing to convert to Islam in the 720s, their bodies thrown into the gorge below.
It is a small and cousy monastery, which is worth to visiting as Gelati Monastery. The Landscape from the monastery are breathtaking. Definitely it is a place which all must to see in Kutaisi.
Motsameta is a must if you visit Kutaisi. Without judging its historical importance or architectural value, the setting itself makes the trip worth - the panorama over the surrounding mountains and the river flowing around the hill is simply spectacular.
Real treasure hidden in the mountains. Definetely worth visiting. Just taka a cab, negotiate the price and go:)
Different from Gelati, but still worth visiting. Views from path leading to monastery are breathtaking. It's definitely a must in Kutaisi.
If you are going out of Kutaisi to Gelati or somewhere else around, it is worth making a little detour to Motsameta. We did it on the way home when our driver asked 'would you like to see one more?' and we almost declined the offer through tiredness, but we're really glad we didn't - lovely little place, spectacular scenery from there - it will take you about 20 minutes to see everything, it's not big but we reallt enjoyed seeing it!
We visited this monastery as part of an organised tour and I must say I found it the most charming we saw whilst we were in Georgia. It's small but charming and in a very scenic location with great views over the Red River and the surrounding gorges. Its a small but still active monastic community.The monastery and church itself are very pretty but I was very struck by the story of the martyrdom at the hands I believe of the Persians of the brothers who were canonised and gave their lives here. Their skulls still reside in the church and are the subject of much devotion. They were tied and thrown to their deaths from the clifftop after they refused to convert to islam after many years of struggle against the Persians who attacked this area many times during their reign.I found it the most charming of the monasterys we visited, and left feeling quite at peace. it's a good walk from the road though so wear sturdy shoes.
Very nice place close to Kutaisi. The landscape and church are very beautiful. it isn/t far from main road and railway station is close to complex, where twice a day run kutaisi-tkibuli train
I loved this monastery because it was nestled in a forrest on a hillside with splendid natural views and loads of history hidden in it. It takes some walk to get to the monastery from the gates, but it's a lovely walk and you'll definitely enjoy it!