History of the Monastery
For centuries, the Bodbe Monastery was not only a spiritual, but also an educational and cultural center. From the seventeenth century, a theological school operated here, where both theological and secular subjects were taught. The monastery possessed one of the richest libraries. In the 18th century, Bodbe was a large male monastery. The famous prelate, Ioane Makashvili, re-embellished the monastery in 1823. However, after his death (1837), by order of the Russian exarchs, the Bodbe diocese was abolished, and the monastery and seminary were closed. Nevertheless, Archimandrite Makari and Mikheil Sabinin worked selflessly for its restoration, reviving Georgian chanting and renewing St. Nino's reliquary. Today, Bodbe is once again a spiritual sanctuary. Daily prayers are offered here, pilgrims are welcomed, and the incorruptible memory of St. Nino is preserved. The monastery still strives to be a place of spiritual education, Georgian tradition, and prayer, where everyone can come in peace and receive grace. Bodbe Monastery has always been not just a spiritual, but also an educational and cultural hub. From the 17th century, a theological school operated here, teaching secular sciences alongside theology, and it housed one of the richest book depositories. In the 18th century, Bodbe was a large male monastery. The famous prelate Ioane Makashvili again adorned the monastery in 1823, but after his death (1837), by order of the Russian exarchs, the Bodbe diocese was abolished, and both the monastery and the seminary were closed. Despite this, the spiritual life of Bodbe did not cease—Archimandrite Makari facilitated the revival of Georgian chant, and Mikheil Sabinin renewed St. Nino's reliquary and laid the foundation for opening a convent. Today, Bodbe is again a spiritual haven where prayer is offered daily at St. Nino's tomb, and everyone has the opportunity to pay homage and receive grace.
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Photo Gallery
The magnificent facade of St. George Church
The stunning iconostasis and altar
Byzantine-style frescoes adorning the central dome
Evening service with candlelight illumination