Tskhrajvari, meaning "nine crosses," is a revered shrine of St. George situated in the Imereti region near the Nakerala Pass, at an elevation of about 1500 to 1569 meters (4921 to 5148 feet) above sea level, on the border of Imereti and Racha regions. Overlooking western Georgia, it offers sweeping views of the Black Sea, Colchic lowlands, and the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus on clear days. The site is steeped in local legend and history, marked by a dramatic landscape and stories that connect deeply with the cultural fabric of the region.
The shrine's origin is tied to a tale of faith and endurance. One legend recounts how a father, desperate for the safe return of his nine sons sent to war, carried nine crosses up the mountain, establishing a shrine in their honor. Miraculously, his sons returned home unharmed. Another legend tells of the Sopromian brothers, who, after fleeing Svaneti due to a murder, sought divine favor by releasing a pigeon that led them to this mountain peak. They constructed the shrine at great personal cost, losing many in the effort, and vowed to honor the Lord annually. Even today, the Sopromadze family upholds this tradition, gathering every last Saturday of May to celebrate "Tskhrajvaroba" and abstaining from meat in a display of reverence.
Near the shrine lies a unique cave, adding another layer of intrigue to the site. The journey to Tskhrajvari begins near the Nakerala Pass, where the road connecting Tkibuli and Ambrolauri passes. From the pass, the site is a 3-kilometer (1.9 miles) journey involving a 1-kilometer (0.6 miles) stretch of dirt road followed by a medium-difficulty hiking trail of about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles). The trail, which winds along a cliff edge, demands caution and is best undertaken with hiking gear. Summer temperatures average 18.5°C (65.3°F), making it a relatively pleasant hike, though the path's challenges necessitate careful preparation.
Tskhrajvari is not just a destination but a cultural touchstone, its shrine a testament to enduring beliefs and the profound human need to seek solace and hope in the divine. Its annual festival and the legends that breathe life into the stones of the shrine resonate with visitors who come to pay homage, reflect on its storied past, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramas that span across Georgia.
