BOLNISI SIONI
This Bolnisi cross is a variant of the Christian symbol that inspired other variants such as the German army's iron cross.
Do you know where the symbol of the Crusader knights came from in the Middle Ages? From a cross. It originated from this church here in Georgia. It's modelled on an ornament from the fifth century. It also became the national symbol of Georgia. Bolnisi's cross is itself a variant of the Christian symbol that inspired other variants, such as the cross of the knights of the Order of Malta and, via the Order of the Teutonic Knights, the iron cross of the German army. You will see it engraved on the pillar to the right of the altar. In the early Middle Ages, the region was the heart of the Lower Kartlie, a hotbed of Georgian civilization. The small Bolnissis Sioni Basilica is a moving testimony to this. Built between 478 and 493, it is one of the oldest churches in Georgia and the largest basilica and one of the most outstanding examples of Christian architecture of the time. The country was then in contact with Persia and its frescoes reflect Persian artistic influences. Its bell tower dates from the 17th century . It is a basilica with three naves and no dome . On the pillar to the left of the altar, you will see a reproduction of the first inscription found in Georgia using the Georgian alphabet. Older copies of this writing have been found in Palestine. It mentions "Bishop David and King Peroz. »
The other inscriptions engraved inside the church are from the same period. The rest of the interior decoration is prodigious; note the geometric forms and the bestiary, including the engravings on the columns depicting birds and animals, as well as the baptistery decorated with a peacock and bull heads.
The church of Zugrugasheni, in the heart of a magnificent site, is well worth a visit. 2 km away, it is perched on the hill in front of Bolnisi Sioni. From the church you can see Kvemo Bolnissi and the village of Kachen. Dated 1212, it is known for the beauty of the ornaments around its windows. Observe the very old lintel of the west door. The contrast between the very sophisticated external facade of the church and the sobriety of the interior is striking.
To reach it, from Bolnisi Sioni, go down to the village of Kvemo Bolnisi, then turn right to climb the hill.
If you're in a taxi on your way to Bolnisi Sioni, you can make a stop there.