Ubisa Monastery: 14th-century Byzantine art in the heart of Imereti

Between Tbilisi and Kutaisi, almost on the road, a treasure of medieval Georgian art hides that few travellers visit: Ubisa Monastery, in the village of Ubisi (Imereti). Its main hall preserves 14th-century frescoes of Byzantine influence that are among the best preserved in Georgia.

Monasterio Ubisa Imereti Georgia — iglesia medieval siglo IX frescos bizantinos
Ubisa Monastery in Imereti, with its small 9th-century church and 14th-century frescoes

History: Gregory of Khandzta and the founding

The monastery was founded in the 9th century by Gregory of Khandzta, one of the most influential figures in Georgian monasticism. From an aristocratic family and educated at a princely court, Gregory devoted his life to founding monasteries in Klarjeti and western Georgia during the period of liberation from Arab rule.

An inscription of 1141 in the monastery records that Simon Chkondideli oversaw the construction of the tower, allowing the evolution of the complex to be precisely dated.

The 14th-century frescoes: Ubisa's greatest treasure

During the reign of George V of Georgia (14th century), the monastery was adorned with Byzantine-style frescoes of extraordinary quality. The paintings depict scenes from the New Testament — the Annunciation, Palm Sunday, the Crucifixion, the Resurrection, the Baptism — and figures of St. George and the Last Supper.

The authorship is attributed to the artist Gerasime, whose signature appears on some of the frescoes. The ensemble has been declared an Immovable Cultural Monument of national importance by the Georgian government.

frescos medievales iglesia georgiana — arte bizantino siglo XIV colores
The 14th-century frescoes of Ubisa are comparable in quality to the finest works of Eastern Christian art

How to include Ubisa on your route

The monastery is beside the E60 motorway between Tbilisi and Kutaisi, near the village of Ubisi. It is a perfect stop if you are driving between the two cities: just a 10-minute detour to see a medieval art treasure ignored by mass tourism. Free entry.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Ubisa Monastery?

In the village of Ubisi, in the Imereti region, about 30 km west of Khashuri and 80 km east of Kutaisi, beside the main E60 motorway. It is very easy to include as a stop on the journey between Tbilisi and Kutaisi.

Are the frescoes at Ubisa Monastery well preserved?

Relatively well. Some panels have deteriorated from damp and the passage of time, but the main scenes — the Crucifixion and the Resurrection in particular — retain their original colours and composition. The natural light inside the church is dim; allow your eyes to adjust.

Do you need to book to visit Ubisa?

No, the monastery is freely accessible with no fixed hours or advance booking. As it is a lightly visited place, you may well have the space to yourself. If a monk or caretaker is present, they may be able to explain the frescoes in Georgian or Russian.