Kumurdo Cathedral


Kumurdo Cathedral is a Georgian Orthodox Cathedral. It is situated on Javakheti Plateau, southwest from Akhalkalaki. According to the inscriptions on the walls, written with the ancient Georgian writing of Asomtavruli, the Kumurdo Cathedral was built by Ioane the Bishop during the reign of king of the Abkhazians Leon III in 964. During the Middle Ages, Kumurdo was an important cultural, educational and religious center. The cathedral was restored twice, but it stands without a dome. In 2015, a project for full reconstruction of the cathedral was developed.

Architecture

The domed building was constructed in stone and was decorated with fine engravings. The windows around the altar are decorated with replicas of bulls, eagles, lions and angels. The interior of the cathedral is decorated with mural paintings. Of special interest is a relief portrait of Queen Gurandukht, the mother of King Bagrat III.

Epigraphy of the church