Georgia: Vardzia Cave Monastic Complex – Church of Dormition
Right in the middle of the cave complex of Vardzia is the spectacular cave Church of the Dormition dating back to 1180. The dark halls of the cave church are adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible and the life of Queen Tamar. Vardzia served as a major monastic center, housing monks and hosting religious scholars. It was also a place of refuge during invasions. The frescoes are fine examples of medieval Georgian art and religious practices. They include portraits of Queen Tamar and her father, King George III.
