Nekresi Monastery

Nekresi stands on a wooded spur on the northern side of the Alazani valley, looking out across the whole width of Kakheti to the Caucasus wall beyond, and its oldest building is a small three-nave basilica generally dated to the late fourth century, which puts it among the earliest surviving church buildings in Georgia. Around it are a domed church of the sixth or seventh century, a bishop's palace, a tower and a working monastery, spread along the ridge among trees. A wine cellar with qvevri set in the floor has been excavated in the complex. Visitors leave cars at the bottom and go up by shuttle, since the road is narrow.

What you actually see

• A late fourth-century basilica - among the oldest churches in the country.
• The view over the Alazani valley - Kakheti and the Caucasus beyond.
• The bishop's palace and tower - the monastic buildings along the ridge.
• An excavated qvevri cellar - winemaking within the complex.

When to go

April to October. Two hours. The shuttle runs from the lower car park and queues build at weekends. Modest dress is required and robes are lent.

Honest expectations

You cannot drive up; the shuttle is compulsory and can involve a wait. Interiors are dark and there is little interpretation. It is a working monastery with dress and photography rules. Tour groups arrive in numbers.

Nearby

Kvareli is east; Telavi lies west along the valley.