Oni Municipality
Mravaldzali is an architectural monument located in the Racha region in the district of Oni, near the village of Mravaldzali. This Church was built in the first half of XI century by King Bagrat I. King Bagrat I is also known as the king who united the Kingdom of Georgia. Mravaldzali is especially known for the stunning bas-reliefs on the facades. It used to house interesting historical exhibits, such as a sword of the famous Persian Shah’s Abas, who tried to conquer Georgia several times. All of his attempts to put down Mravaldzali Monastery failed, that’s why it was named “Place of great strength” which translates to Mravaldzali in Georgian.
Mravaldzali is one of the most important cultural and religious spots of the Racha region, Georgians believe that three visits to Mravaldzali Monastery equal a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
