The “double headed” WHS of “Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery” consists of a ruined (in 1691 by the Turks) Cathedral of the 10th to 11th centuries in the town of Kutaisi and a (still functioning) monastery complex built between the 12th to 17 centuries situated in the countryside some 12kms away.

Apart from the geographical proximity and the fact that, taken together, the 2 buildings represent a long and continuous period of Georgian religious architecture, I know of no reason why they are linked together in a single WHS.

Even in “shell” form the cathedral is an enormous building. It is named after Bagrat III the first king of united Georgia and is no doubt of considerable architectural interest. I also understand the comments made by another reviewer about the open roof not necessarily detracting from its religious impact (UNESCO has severely criticised the idea, apparently floated in the early 90’s, presumably as some sort of “Georgian independence celebration”, of rebuilding the Cathedral!). I however did not find the building and its setting particularly inspiring.

I personally far preferred the Gelati complex. It is beautifully set in countryside of woods and fields of greenest hue. A stream runs through the grounds and the ensemble of 2 main buildings complement each other superbly. The interior contains many fine mosaics and frescos. We had the place to ourselves. (Visited Aug 2000)