Tsandripshsky Temple, Abkhazia

Another amazing religious object is the Tsandripshsky temple that was built in the 6th century. It is located in the picturesque village of Gantiadi. According to historical records, in ancient times it housed a fortress and a settlement. In the Middle Ages, a commercial port was built there. The old temple is one of the few buildings that has managed to survive to the present day. Despite the fact that the temple is not active, tourists still have an opportunity to assess its scope and admire unique elements of decoration.

The shrine is made of large stones; once gorgeous Byzantine marble was used for its design. The temple has a unique symmetrical architecture. Researchers were able to find out the fact that in ancient times it featured special acoustics. This means that the largest Christian church in the territory of Abkhazia was built by upscale architects and craftsmen, whose talents never ceased to amaze contemporaries.

Hollow clay vessels were found in some walls; they allow to improve the acoustics. Over the years, the ancient temple was reconstructed several times. The first major reconstruction took place at the turn of the 15th-16th centuries. At this time Tsandripshsky temple was rebuilt into a fortress. Researchers found the remains of a fortress foundation close to the shrine. Despite the fact that the ancient temple is not active, since recently, preachings are regularly held there. They take place almost every week. Next - Bedia Cathedral