SAMTAVRO MONASTERY

In the main square, the Samtavro Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is said to have been built in the 4th century. Many times destroyed, its present appearance dates from the first half of the 11th century. This monument (now a convent) is of a certain size. It was once the residence of the kings of Mtskheta. It was built to house the tomb of King Mirian and Queen Nana (south-western part of the church). The nearby chapel Tsminda Nino (Saint Nino) is said to have been erected at the place where Nino prayed for the monarchs.