The most significant part of Georgian architecture is the church architecture. Due to the individual and unique style it is often thought as a symbol of Georgia. The oldest church which has survived in Georgia is Bolnisi Sioni (478-493). During later centuries style of architects was changing and improving. At the beginning of VII century the first cross-domed church Jvari (monastery), was built which is one of the most prominent parts of Georgian architectural heritage. Church architecture has reached its peak in XII-XIV centuries, in the period of glory of Georgian state. In this period following churches were built: Svetickhoveli, Alaverdi Monastery, Bagrati Cathedral, Gelati monastery, Oshki, Akhtala Monastery, Nikortsminda Cathedral, Samtavisi Cathedral, Kvatakhevi, Gergeti Trinity Church etc.
Another interesting point in Georgian architecture is the architecture of fortifications and residential buildings. Oldest castle on the territory of Georgia is the one on the mountain small Abuli and dates back to 3.5 thousand years BC. It is megalithic building. Gonio fortress is also impressive (I century). But probably the most striking example of Georgian fortification mastery is fortress Khertvisi (X-XIV centuries). In Eastern, Western and mountainous parts of Georgia there are significant differences in residential buildings. In eastern Georgia buildings were one-storied with stepped domed roofs which had a hole in the middle to let out smoke and let in the light. In western part of Georgia because of the moist weather conditions houses were one or two storied with that stood on the piles of stone. As for the mountain regions of Georgia, here in the harsh environment 2-6 storied stone towers were built which were used as both residential and defense buildings. Often dozens of such towers formed impregnable fortified complexes such as: Shatili, Mutso, Ushguli.
Arts and crafts of Georgia count almost 5 thousand years of existence. It is noteworthy that processing and artistic value of jewelry and ritual items found in ancient settlements and tombs show the high development and culture of Georgia at that time. With the adoption of Christianity in the country pockets of Christian religious arts are found in various places. There are painted churches; painted icons with impressive chasings, Holy Scriptures are illustrated. Over the centuries many churches suffered from enemy attacks but highly artistic value of the paintings can be read to
Architecture
