Bodbe Monastery

ბოდბის მონასტერი

A serene nunnery and pilgrimage site near Sighnaghi, holding the tomb of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. Its cypress-lined gardens and sweeping valley views make it one of the most beautiful spiritual sites in the country.

Things to do

• Venerate St. Nino's Tomb — Visit the small Church of St. Nino where the relics of Georgia's beloved evangelist rest beneath the altar.
• Explore the Cathedral of St. George — Step inside the 9th-century church, rebuilt over the centuries, to see its frescoes and quiet worship space.
• Walk the Cypress-Lined Path — Stroll the elegant avenue of tall cypress trees leading through the monastery gardens toward the valley overlook.
• Take in the Alazani Valley Views — Pause at the terrace to admire sweeping panoramas of the Alazani Valley with the Caucasus Mountains beyond.
• Descend to St. Nino's Spring — Walk the steep path down to the sacred spring and chapel where pilgrims immerse themselves in the holy waters.
• Wander the Bell Tower and Gardens — Admire the freestanding bell tower and the manicured rose and flower gardens tended by the resident nuns.
• Visit Nearby Sighnaghi — Combine your trip with the fortified hilltop town of Sighnaghi, just a short drive away.

Food to try

• Khinkali — Kakheti's meaty soup dumplings are a regional staple best enjoyed at a tavern in nearby Sighnaghi.
• Kakhetian Mtsvadi — Try grape-vine-grilled pork skewers, a signature barbecue of Georgia's eastern wine country.
• Qvevri Wine — Sample Kakhetian amber wines fermented in traditional clay qvevri buried underground at local cellars.
• Churchkhela — Buy strings of this candle-shaped candy made from grape must and walnuts sold by roadside vendors.
• Nadughi with Mint — Savor fresh Georgian curd cheese wrapped in creamy layers and seasoned with mint, common in Kakheti.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly — As an active nunnery, women should cover their heads and wear skirts (wraps are provided at the entrance) and men should avoid shorts.
• Respect the Silence — Keep voices low and photography discreet, especially inside the churches where nuns and pilgrims are in prayer.
• Bring a Bottle for the Spring — Pilgrims collect the holy water from St. Nino's spring, so carry an empty container for the descent.
• Mind the Opening Hours — The monastery generally welcomes visitors from morning until evening but may close areas during services.

Nearby

• Sighnaghi — 3 km
• Lagodekhi Protected Areas — 39 km
• Kvareli — 41 km
• Tsinandali Estate — 45 km