Skhalta Monastery

Skhalta Monastery is an essential cultural and historical monument of Adjara, a true mystical example of medieval Christianity. It is located in the picturesque settlement of Kinchauri, approximately 100 kilometers from Batumi along the Skhalta River valley. The surviving church dates to the mid-13th–14th centuries, presumably constructed with the involvement of Queen Tamar or the noble Abuseridze clan. The monastery endured Ottoman and Soviet periods, and since 1990 has actively functioned again as the Nativity of the Mother of God men’s monastery and serves as a cathedral church.

The Skhalta complex includes not only the main hall church, but also a small roadside chapel, an ancient marani (wine cellar with traditional kvevri jars and a wine press), a medieval bridge across the Skhalta River, and burials of early monks. Surrounded by the scenic Khulo valley with mountains and a river, this place possesses a powerful spiritual atmosphere and a sense of serenity.

Skhalta Monastery is a large hall church. It features a protruding semi-circular apse with seven facets. Entry into the church is possible through two primary portals on the south and west, as well as an additional northern door. The church is constructed of grayish-white stone. Inside, the spacious hall features arches and a barrel vault supported on pillars. The hall's flanking walls are likewise adorned with arches.

The interior walls were finished with hewn blocks of white stone and were once decorated with frescoes. In 1997, Georgian scholars found small remains of original 14th-15th century frescoes with subjects from the New Testament; these are examples of Byzantine art. The exterior walls are also made of hewn stone blocks, and the windows are richly decorated.

The best time to visit the monastery is from May to October, when dry weather prevails. The road to Kinchauri is paved, after which you need to drive about 10 km on a dirt road. Touring the entire complex will take 1–2 hours. Skhalta Monastery is a unique point where history, art, spirituality, and nature meet, ideal for those seeking ancient sacred places away from standard tourist routes.