Bedia Cathedral

ბედიის ტაძარი

A 10th-century Georgian Orthodox cathedral built under King Bagrat III, who is buried there. Set in the eastern countryside, it preserves fine medieval frescoes and architecture away from the coastal crowds.

Things to do

• Admire the medieval frescoes — Study the surviving 10th to 14th-century wall paintings inside, including a rare portrait believed to depict King Bagrat III.
• See Bagrat III's tomb — Pay respects at the burial place of the first king of a united Georgia, the cathedral's founder.
• Examine the cathedral architecture — Walk around the cruciform stone church to appreciate its classic Georgian domed design and carved facades.
• Explore the ruined bell tower and palace — Wander the adjacent remains of the episcopal palace and freestanding bell tower in the churchyard.
• Take in the countryside views — Enjoy the hilltop panorama over the green eastern Abkhazian countryside, far from the coastal crowds.
• Learn about the Bedia Chalice — Discover the story of the famous golden Bedia Chalice donated by Bagrat III, now held in a Tbilisi museum.

Food to try

• Abkhazian ajika — A fiery paste of red pepper, garlic, and herbs served as a condiment with nearly every rural meal.
• Mamaliga (achma-style hominy) — A thick cornmeal porridge that is the regional staple, often eaten with cheese and ajika.
• Khachapuri — Cheese-filled bread found across Georgia, a warming snack after visiting the hilltop cathedral.
• Smoked suluguni cheese — A stretchy brined cheese, sometimes smoked, common on village tables throughout the region.
• Fresh walnuts and honey — Countryside households sell walnuts and forest honey, both central to local cooking and treats.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly at the church — Cover shoulders and knees, and women should bring a headscarf as this is an active Orthodox site.
• Check permits and access — Bedia lies in Abkhazia, a disputed region, so confirm current entry rules and travel advisories before visiting.
• Bring cash and supplies — The rural setting has few shops or services, so carry water, snacks, and small bills.
• Ask before photographing frescoes — Respect any restrictions on flash or photography inside to help preserve the fragile medieval paintings.

Nearby

• Enguri Dam (Samegrelo and Upper Svaneti) — 15 km
• Zugdidi (Samegrelo and Upper Svaneti) — 29 km
• Martvili Canyon (Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi & Kvemo Svaneti) — 56 km
• Okatse Canyon (Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi & Kvemo Svaneti) — 65 km