Green Monastery

მწვანე მონასტერი

A small, peaceful 9th-century monastery set deep in the forest near Borjomi, named for the green moss-covered stones of its riverside surroundings. It makes a serene and easily reached excursion from the spa town.

Things to do

• Visit St. George Church — Explore the modest 9th-century stone church of Chitakhevi built by monks Andria and Simon, the spiritual heart of the monastery.
• See the green mossy stones — Walk along the little river where the moss-covered green stones give the monastery its name and create its serene atmosphere.
• Find the red-tinged stones — Look for the reddish stones in the streambed, said by locals to symbolize the blood of monks massacred here by invading Persian forces.
• Forest walk from the road — Take the short peaceful hike through dense conifer forest to reach the secluded monastery grounds.
• Quiet contemplation by the belltower — Sit near the old stone bell tower and enjoy the birdsong and stillness deep in the Borjomi woods.
• Day trip from Borjomi — Combine the visit with the spa town of Borjomi, just a short drive away, for an easy half-day excursion.

Food to try

• Borjomi mineral water — Taste the famous naturally carbonated spring water bottled from the nearby valley, Georgia's most iconic drink.
• Khachapuri — Enjoy the cheese-filled bread available in Borjomi cafes, best eaten fresh and warm from the oven.
• Trout (kalmakhi) — Try locally farmed river trout, grilled or fried, a specialty of the streams around the Borjomi-Kharagauli region.
• Mtsvadi — Savor Georgian skewered pork or veal grilled over grapevine coals, common at roadside eateries near Borjomi.
• Churchkhela — Buy the candle-shaped strings of nuts dipped in thickened grape juice sold by vendors in the town.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly — Cover shoulders and knees, and women should bring a headscarf, as this is an active Orthodox monastery.
• Respect the silence — Keep voices low and avoid loud behavior, as the site is valued for its meditative peace and remains a place of prayer.
• Bring cash for donations — There is no entrance fee, but small donations for candles or the upkeep of the monastery are appreciated.
• Photography inside — Ask permission before photographing inside the church or any monks, as it may not always be allowed.

Nearby

• Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park — 4 km
• Borjomi — 7 km
• Khertvisi Fortress — 38 km
• Sapara Monastery — 39 km