This two-story church, which bears traces of construction from different periods, is located in the village of Tsvirmi, within the Tsvirmi community. The original structure—a very small single nave church with a flat chancel—dates to the 13th century. In the 14th century, a larger three-sided ambulatory was added to the lower level, along with a small upper church.
Inside the lower, primary church, fragments of the original 13th-century murals have survived, though they are severely damaged.
Despite its condition, the mural decoration offers a compelling example of the artistic tendencies of its time. It demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the dynamic-decorative style, particularly in the organization of the mural system and its distinctive rhythmic arrangement. The Desis scene in the chancel presents a unique iconographic variant, and the use of painted arcading along the entirely plain and unarticulated longitudinal walls of the interior is also noteworthy.
A standout feature is the abundance of warrior saint figures, and the thematic emphasis on the church’s patron saints—the Assembly of the Holy Archangels. Although this part of the painting has unfortunately been lost, its inclusion in the original program represents one of the earliest known depictions of this composition in Svaneti’s mural tradition.
Useful information
| Location | The church is located at the south-western age of the village, from where a beautiful view unfolds |
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| Key Holder | The key is kept at Giorgi Kordzaias\' household |
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