UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Gremi
Georgia (country)

Gremi

16th-century citadel and church complex

Location

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Historical Context

About

Gremi, a 16th-century architectural site in Kakheti, Georgia, was once the capital of the Kingdom of Kakheti. Founded by Levan of Kakheti, it served as a hub on the Silk Road, boasting a vibrant trading town and royal residence. The site features the Church of the Archangels, a cruciform domed church built in 1565, blending Georgian and Iranian architectural styles. The complex also includes a castle, bell tower, and remnants of a secret tunnel. Despite its former prosperity, Gremi was destroyed by Shah Abbas I of Persia in 1615, and the capital was later relocated to Telavi. The remains of Gremi stand as a testament to its historical and cultural significance.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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FileGremi_Kakheti01.jpg
FileKakheti_15465_9124094644.jpg
FileLevan_of_Kakheti_Philotheou_fresco.jpg
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Capital Transfer to Telavi

mid-17th century CE

Gremi Capital Establishment

1520 CE

Construction of Archangels’ Church

1565 CE

Razing by Shah Abbas I

1615 CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Defensive Structures

CastlesTowers
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Towns
category

Transportation and Communication Structures

Tunnels
Knowledge Base

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Plan Your Visit

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Reference

Details

Country

Georgia (country)

Coordinates

42.00° N, 45.66° E