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Valle Crucis Abbey, Llantysilio, Llangollen, Denbighshire, North Wales LL20 8DD.
Valle Crucis Abbey, Coordinates..... 52.98918°N 3.187142°W
Valle Crucis Abbey....What Three Word location what3words.com/masts.thumb.verifying
Valle Crucis Abbey, The picturesque Cistercian abbey of Valle Crucis was founded in 1201 by Madog ap Gruffudd Maelor, the ruler of Powys Fadog and is situated 2km north of the town of Llangollen. The abbey suffered a fire in 1236 and an inscription high above the west window notes that this part of the building was completed by Abbot Adam (1330-44). During the second half of the fifteenth century, Valle Crucis was reputed for its scholarship, patronage of bards and its collection of Welsh literary manuscripts.
By the time of the dissolution of the monasteries in Britain, under the English King Henry VIII, in 1537, the abbey was already in decline. After the dissolution, the entire estate passed into the ownership of Sir William Pickering who had to strip the buildings of their valuable lead and hand it over to the Crown. This damage to the roof and extensive stone robbing caused Valle Crucis to fall into decay.
The Little White Cottage. Built in 1781
Julius Rodenberg (1831 – 1914) wrote in 1856,
Behind these walls lies a friendly small garden with a pond and waterfall below alder shrubs; in a little white house entirely covered by evergreens, Mrs Lloyd lives a quiet and contemplative life. She guides the visitors through the ruins of the abbey. I enjoyed her conversation and learnt a lot from her because she was thoroughly acquainted with the language, the poetry and history of her country. Valle Crucis Abbey (the Abbey of the Valley of the Cross)
Featuring the only surviving monastic fishpond in Wales.
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Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives to this day as one of the country's twelve original castles.
Happy Valley, Llandudno, Conwy.
Happy Valley, Llandudno, Coordinates....Latitude: 53.3304 / 53°19'49"N
Longitude: -3.8303 / 3°49'49"W
What Three Word location.
///envelope.cashiers.shuttle
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Happy Valley, Llandudno.
Happy Valley was once a quarry stretching down the Great Orme, and it was a gift from Lord Mostyn to the town of Llandudno in celebrating of the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria back in the year of 1887. After the quarry was donated as a gift, the area was developed upon as gardens with many attractions within itself. Within Happy Valley were two miniature golf courses, a putting green, and very popular open air theatre and many lawns situated around the area.
As Llandudno developed as a resort from 1850, the Happy Valley – also known as The Fach – became popular with visitors for its wildness and natural grandeur.
Jubilee Monument & Fountain to Queen Victoria.
Erected in 1887.
Bronze bust of Queen Victoria upon a pedestal the sides of which are inscribed as follows: "This Fountain was erected in the Happy Valley to/commemorate the Jubilee of the Reign of Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria and Empress of India by The Right Honourable Lady Augusta Mostyn Upon land presented to the Town of Llandudno by her son, the Right Honourable Llewellyn 3rd Baron Mostyn". The monument is sheltered by a free-standing canopy in the form of a baldachino with ribbed dome with finial above semi-circular sandstone arches with marble spandrils, the arches supported by free-standing granite columns on pedestals with form part of the podium to the whole monument; stepped base.
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Basingwerk Abbey, Holywell, Flintshire, North Wales.
Basingwerk Abbey Coordinates... 53°17′17″N 3°12′29″W
Basingwerk Abbey, What three word location...https://w3w.co/lecturers.lordship.action
Basingwerk Abbey (Welsh: Abaty Dinas Basing) is a Grade I listed ruined abbey near Holywell, Flintshire, Wales. The abbey, which was founded in the 12th century, belonged to the Order of Cistercians. It maintained significant lands in the English county of Derbyshire. The abbey was abandoned and its assets sold following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1536.
The abbey was founded in 1132 by Ranulf de Gernon, 4th Earl of Chester, who had already brought Benedictine monks from Savigny Abbey in southern Normandy. Likely the first location of the abbey was not at the current location at Greenfields but at the nearby Hen Blas. The abbey became part of the Cistercian Order in 1147, when the Savignac Order merged with the Cistercians. It was a daughter house of Combermere Abbey in Cheshire, of which Earl Ranulf was a great benefactor. However, in 1147 the abbot and convent of Savigny transferred it to Buildwas Abbey in Shropshire.
Twenty years later, the monks of Basingwerk challenged their subjection to Buildwas, but Savigny found against them and sent a letter notifying their decision to the abbot of Cîteaux, the head of the Cistercian order.: 54 An Earl of Chester gave the manor of West Kirby to the Abbey.
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Melin Llynon, Llanddeusant, Anglesey, North Wales
Melin Llynon, Llanddeusant, Coordinates.. 53.3379°N
4.4939°W.
What three words location is...“///courageous.cheeseburger.snowball”
Melin Llynon, or Llynon Mill, is a gristmill located on the outskirts of the village of Llanddeusant on the island of Anglesey. It is the only surviving working windmill in Wales.
The mill was built for £529, 11s in 1775–1776, on land owned by the surgeon Herbert Jones. It is classified as a tower mill. The machinery is within a stone tower and the moving top, or cap cwch, turns so that the sails hwyliau catch the wind from any direction. The tower was 9.3 metres tall and with four floors. It was used to drive machines for grinding corn, oats and barley. The first miller, Thomas Jones (1756–1846), worked it until his death. The position of miller was passed down through the generations, eventually going to a cousin William Pritchard. By 1929 the mill was registered as disused and in use again. By 1954 structural damage meant the mill was permanently out of order.
It is now the only working windmill in Anglesey and Wales. Also within the site is a reconstruction of an Iron Age roundhouse hut building.
Damage
A storm in 1918 damaged the cap stopping it from turning to face the wind. It still operated intermittently for the next six years when the wind was from the southwest. Eventually the mill closed and became increasingly dilapidated.
The windmill was previously reconstructed by the Isle of Anglesey County Council after they purchased the mill in 1978. It was restored and reopened on 11 May 1984, and since 1986 the windmill produces stoneground flour
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When I imagine a simpler life, this is the image my mind conjures. Single bed, chair, bowl, spoon...just the essentials please.
Shelburne, VT
Chester Cathedral, St Werburgh St, Chester CH1 2DY, United Kingdom.
Chester Cathedral, Coordinates.... 53°11′31″N 2°53′26″W
What Three Word what3words.com/drape.hurry.sake
Chester Cathedral is a Church of England cathedral and the mother church of the Diocese of Chester. It is located in the city of Chester, Cheshire, England. The cathedral, formerly the abbey church of a Benedictine monastery dedicated to Saint Werburgh, is dedicated to Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Since 1541, it has been the seat of the bishop of Chester.
The cathedral and former monastic buildings were extensively restored during the 19th century (amidst some controversy), and a free standing bell tower was added in the 20th century. In addition to holding services for Christian worship, the buildings are a major tourist attraction in Chester and the cathedral is used as a venue for concerts and exhibitions.
The WATER OF LIFE Sculpture.
The piece was designed for the Cloister Garden of Chester Cathedral in association with the 900th Anniversary celebrations of the foundation of the Benedictine Abbey of St Werburgh, on this site in 1092.
The water feature depicts the encounter between Jesus and the Woman of Samaria, showing their shared bowl overflowing with water. The theme of water also suggests a link to how the Benedictine monks water supply was at the centre of the cloister garden.
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This black-and-white photograph captures a serene mountain village, with a prominent church tower standing tall amidst lush greenery and rolling hills in the background.
In 1904, a devastating fire left Ålesund in ruins, destroying almost the entire town. But out of the disaster came a masterpiece! Thanks to an inspiring reconstruction effort - and the support of the German Emperor William II - Ålesund was reborn in glorious Art Nouveau style, becoming the architectural jewel that dazzles visitors today.
Today, amidst imposing fjords and sculptured facades, this town is proof that beauty can emerge even from the greatest adversity.
The gate of the Monastery of Knechtsteden, captured during my cycling trip yesterday, with its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.
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Das Tor des Klosters Knechtsteden, aufgenommen während meiner Fahrradtour gestern, mit seiner beeindruckenden Architektur und der ruhigen Umgebung.
This mesmerizing aerial photograph of Cesky Krumlov provides a unique perspective, captured from the town's highest bridge, locally known as the "Bridge of Death." Set against the majestic Vltava River, this town boasts a remarkable history that spans over seven centuries. What sets Cesky Krumlov apart is its remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture, a stunning cityscape that unfurls like a fairy tale.Crowning the town's skyline is the iconic Cesky Krumlov Castle, a testament to a bygone era, with its origins dating back to the 13th century. Below, the labyrinthine streets are flanked by centuries-old buildings, adorned with intricate Gothic and Renaissance facades, showcasing the town's rich artistic and architectural heritage.The Vltava River, once a vital trade route connecting Northern and Southern Europe, played a pivotal role in the town's history. It facilitated activities such as fishing, milling, and river trade, contributing to the town's growth and development.Cesky Krumlov, with a population of around 14,000, maintains its intimate, small-town charm while welcoming visitors from across the globe. Its historic core, including the castle and a network of narrow medieval streets, received UNESCO World Heritage recognition in 1992, preserving the town's unique character.As you gaze upon this panoramic view, consider that Cesky Krumlov's rich heritage endures, offering a captivating glimpse into a bygone era, and earning its place as one of the world's most special and authentic towns.
Westminster, City of Westminster, London. SW1A 0AA.
Westminster Coordinates..... 51°29′41″N 00°08′07″W
what3words location "Flows.Verbs.Dome"
Westminster is the main settlement of the City of Westminster in London, England. It extends from the River Thames to Oxford Street, and has many famous landmarks, including the Palace of Westminster, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Westminster Cathedral, Trafalgar Square and much of the West End cultural centre including the entertainment precinct of West End Theatre.
Big Ben, 10 Bridge Street, London SW1A 0AA.
The Elizabeth Tower is the clock tower of the Palace of Westminster in London, England. It contains the Great Clock, a striking clock with five bells. The tower is nicknamed "Big Ben", a name which was originally applied only to the largest bell of the clock. The tower was officially called the Clock Tower until 2012, when it was renamed to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II.
The tower was designed by Augustus Pugin in a Perpendicular Gothic Revival style and was completed in 1859. It is elaborately decorated and includes symbols related to the four nations of the United Kingdom, the Tudor dynasty, and a Latin inscription to Queen Victoria. The tower stands 316 feet (96 m) tall, and the climb from ground level to the belfry is 334 steps. Its base is square, measuring 40 feet (12 m) on each side. The dials of the clock are 22.5 feet (6.9 m) in diameter.
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Santa Maria di Staffarda Abbey in Revello, near Cuneo, was founded between 1122 and 1138 and is one of Piedmont’s most fascinating and essential medieval monasteries.
L’Abbazia di Santa Maria di Staffarda a Revello, in provincia di Cuneo, è uno dei monasteri medievali più affascinanti e importanti del Piemonte. La sua fondazione risale al periodo compreso tra il 1122 e il 1138.
Santa Maria di Staffarda Abbey in Revello, near Cuneo, was founded between 1122 and 1138 and is one of Piedmont’s most fascinating and essential medieval monasteries.
L’Abbazia di Santa Maria di Staffarda a Revello, in provincia di Cuneo, è uno dei monasteri medievali più affascinanti e importanti del Piemonte. La sua fondazione risale al periodo compreso tra il 1122 e il 1138.
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The Jvari Monastery (Georgian: ჯვარი, meaning cross) is one of the most iconic and historic sites in Georgia. Located near Mtskheta, the monastery is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in the country. Built in the 6th century, the monastery is known as one of the earliest examples of Georgian Christian architecture. It was built on the site where, according to tradition, Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia, erected a large wooden cross. Together with other historical monuments in Mtskheta, the Jvari Monastery has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1994. The monastery is located on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Kura rivers and the historic town of Mtskheta. The building is an example of a tetraconch central dome structure with four apses. Despite its simple design, it is considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The Jvari Pass begins at the monastery. The pass is located at an altitude of approximately 2,379 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the Caucasus. It is an important passage through the Caucasus Mountains to Russia. The area is particularly known for its rugged roads, and in winter the pass can be difficult to navigate due to heavy snowfall. The route offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks, valleys and rivers. The Georgian Military Road was originally used as a trade and military route. Today it is a busy road for freight transport to Russia.
The Jvari Monastery is located in Georgia, on a hilltop near the town of Mtskheta, about 20 kilometers north of the capital, Tbilisi. The ruins next to the Jvari Monastery are part of an old defensive structure and watchtower. The Jvari Monastery is located at a strategic point above Mtskheta, where the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers meet. In many cases, these ruins are remnants from the same or slightly later period, when they supplemented the religious sites with military protection against potential invaders. This location offers breathtaking panoramic views and holds deep historical and religious significance. Mtskheta, one of Georgia's oldest cities, was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Iberia. The monastery is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its cultural and architectural importance.
Het Jvari-klooster (Georgisch: ჯვარი, wat kruis betekent) is een van de meest iconische en historische locaties in Georgië. Het klooster, gelegen bij Mtskheta, is één van de belangrijkste religieuze en culturele bezienswaardigheden van het land. Het klooster werd gebouwd in de 6e eeuw en staat bekend als een van de vroegste voorbeelden van Georgische christelijke architectuur. Het werd gebouwd op de plek waar volgens de overlevering de heilige Nino, die het christendom naar Georgië bracht, een groot houten kruis oprichtte. Samen met andere historische monumenten in Mtskheta staat het Jvari-klooster sinds 1994 op de UNESCO Werelderfgoedlijst. De ruïne naast het Jvari-klooster is een deel van een oude verdedigingsstructuur en wachttoren. Het Jvari-klooster bevindt zich op een strategisch punt boven Mtskheta, waar de rivieren Aragvi en Mtkvari samenkomen. In veel gevallen zijn deze ruïnes overblijfselen uit dezelfde tijdsperiode of iets later, waarbij ze de religieuze locaties aanvulden met militaire bescherming tegen mogelijke indringers. Het klooster is een voorbeeld van een tetraconch centrale koepelstructuur met vier apsissen. Ondanks zijn eenvoudige ontwerp wordt het beschouwd als een meesterwerk van middeleeuwse architectuur. Bij het klooster begint de Jvari-pas. De pas ligt op ongeveer 2.379 meter boven zeeniveau en biedt spectaculaire uitzichten op de Kaukasus. Het is een belangrijke doorgang door het Kaukasusgebergte naar Rusland. Het gebied is met name bekend om zijn ruige wegen, en in de winter kan de pas moeilijk begaanbaar zijn vanwege zware sneeuwval. De route biedt adembenemende uitzichten op bergtoppen, valleien en rivieren. De Georgische Militaire Weg werd oorspronkelijk gebruikt als een handels- en militaire route. Tegenwoordig is het een drukke weg voor vrachtvervoer richting Rusland.
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Skopje is the capital of North Macedonia and represents the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country. The city lies along the Vardar River. In the foreground stands a monumental marble statue of Emperor Justinian I (482–565), the Byzantine ruler best known for codifying Roman law into the famous Corpus Juris Civilis. His stern expression and the scepter in his hand emphasize his power and role as a lawgiver. Behind the statue unfolds the historic Stone Bridge (Kameni Most), the symbol of Skopje. Built in the 15th century during the Ottoman period on the foundations of an earlier Roman bridge, it connects the old Ottoman bazaar Čaršija with the modern city square. With its twelve stone arches and a length of over 200 meters, this bridge is regarded as one of the city’s most important historical landmarks. In the background rises the impressive Archaeological Museum of North Macedonia, its neoclassical façade and domes spectacularly illuminated in pink hues at night. Inside, the museum houses a rich collection that tells the long and diverse history of the region: from prehistoric artifacts and Roman mosaics to medieval icons and archaeological finds from across the country. Together with the surrounding bridges, statues, and monumental buildings, this ensemble forms a significant part of the ambitious Skopje 2014 project, which aimed to give the city a new monumental appearance – a blend of old and new, of history and modern urban vision.
By the banks of the Vardar River in Skopje, a marble statue of Emperor Justinian I faces the historic Stone Bridge and the brightly lit Archaeological Museum of North Macedonia. Together, these landmarks capture the city’s blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern neoclassical influences, creating a striking night scene of history and grandeur.
Skopje is de hoofdstad van Noord-Macedonië en vormt het politieke, economische en culturele hart van het land. De stad ligt aan de rivier de Vardar. Op de voorgrond staat een monumentaal marmeren standbeeld van Keizer Justinianus I (482–565), de Byzantijnse heerser die vooral bekendstaat om zijn codificatie van het Romeinse recht – het beroemde Corpus Juris Civilis. Zijn strenge blik en de scepter in zijn hand benadrukken zijn macht en rol als wetgever. Achter het standbeeld ontvouwt zich de historische Steenbrug (Kameni Most), hét symbool van Skopje. Deze brug, die de oude Ottomaanse bazaar Čaršija verbindt met het moderne stadsplein, werd in de 15e eeuw gebouwd tijdens de Ottomaanse overheersing, op de fundamenten van een oudere Romeinse brug. Met zijn twaalf stenen bogen en een lengte van ruim 200 meter geldt dit bouwwerk als een van de belangrijkste historische monumenten van de stad. Op de achtergrond zie je het indrukwekkende Archeologisch Museum van Noord-Macedonië, waarvan de neoklassieke façade en koepels ’s avonds spectaculair verlicht worden in roze tinten. Binnen herbergt het museum een rijke collectie die de lange en diverse geschiedenis van de regio vertelt: van prehistorische objecten en Romeinse mozaïeken tot middeleeuwse iconen en archeologische vondsten uit alle uithoeken van het land. Samen met de omliggende bruggen, beelden en monumentale gebouwen vormt dit geheel een belangrijk deel van het ambitieuze Skopje 2014-project, waarmee de stad een nieuwe, monumentale uitstraling heeft gekregen – een samenspel van oud en nieuw, geschiedenis en moderne visie.
Llandudno, Conwy County, North Wales.
Llandudno Coordinates...53°19′21″N 3°49′30″W
The town of Llandudno developed from Stone Age, Bronze Age and Iron Age settlements over many hundreds of years on the slopes of the limestone headland, known to seafarers as the Great Orme and to landsmen as the Creuddyn Peninsula. The origins in recorded history are with the Manor of Gogarth conveyed by King Edward I to Annan, Bishop of Bangor in 1284. The manor comprised three townships, Y Gogarth in the south-west, Y Cyngreawdr in the north (with the parish church of St Tudno) and Yr Wyddfid in the south-east.
Modern Llandudno takes its name from the ancient parish of Saint Tudno. The modern town has grown beyond the ancient parish boundaries to encompass several neighbouring area, including Craig-y-Don and Penrhyn Bay, which were in the parish of Llanrhos (or Eglwys Rhos), which also included Llanrhos village and Deganwy. The ancient parishes of Llandudno, Llanrhos and Llangystennin were in the medieval commote of Creuddyn in the Kingdom of Gwynedd, which was made part of the new county of Caernarfonshire under the Statute of Rhuddlan in 1284.
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Santa Maria di Staffarda Abbey in Revello, near Cuneo, was founded between 1122 and 1138 and is one of Piedmont’s most fascinating and essential medieval monasteries.
L’Abbazia di Santa Maria di Staffarda a Revello, in provincia di Cuneo, è uno dei monasteri medievali più affascinanti e importanti del Piemonte. La sua fondazione risale al periodo compreso tra il 1122 e il 1138.
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the Imperial Palace East Gardens offer a serene escape from the bustling city life. These gardens, part of the larger Imperial Palace grounds, are steeped in history and tradition, making them a must-visit for anyone interested in Japan's rich cultural heritage. The East Gardens were once the site of Edo Castle, the residence of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan from the early 17th century until the mid-19th century. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this historical era, including the foundation of the former castle tower, which was destroyed by fire in the 17th century and never rebuilt. The meticulously landscaped gardens feature a variety of seasonal flowers, ancient trees, and traditional Japanese elements such as stone lanterns and koi ponds. One of the highlights is the Ninomaru Garden, a classic example of a Japanese landscape garden, complete with a central pond, walking paths, and carefully placed rocks and plants. The garden's design reflects the aesthetic principles of harmony, balance, and tranquility, providing a peaceful retreat for contemplation and relaxation.
The East Gardens are open to the public year-round, offering a changing tapestry of colors and textures with each season. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer lush greenery, autumn vibrant foliage, and winter a stark, serene beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, the Imperial Palace East Gardens are a hidden gem in the heart of Tokyo, offering a glimpse into Japan's past and a sanctuary of natural beauty.
The Torre Civica (Civic Tower) of Saluzzo, rising in the heart of the town’s historic center, was built in the 13th century as a symbol of communal power and civic pride. Adjacent to the former Piazza del Comune, it served multiple roles: a watchtower for spotting danger, a bell tower to mark the hours and summon citizens, and a stronghold during periods of unrest. Its simple yet imposing stone structure reflects medieval military architecture, while its survival through centuries of change makes it one of Saluzzo’s most enduring landmarks. Restored in recent years, the Torre Civica stands today as a testament to the town’s communal past and its legacy as a free city within the Marquisate.
Harlech Castle, Gwynedd, North Wales.
Harlech Castle, Coordinates... 52.86°N 4.11°W
What three word location... w3w.co/roost.crumple.album
Harlech Castle is a Grade I listed medieval fortification built onto a rocky knoll close to the Irish Sea. It was built by Edward I during his invasion of Wales between 1282 and 1289 at the relatively modest cost of £8,190. Over the next few centuries, the castle played an important part in several wars, withstanding the siege of Madog ap Llywelyn between 1294 and 1295, but falling to Prince Owain Glyndŵr in 1404. It then became Glyndŵr's residence and military headquarters for the remainder of the uprising until being recaptured by English forces in 1409. During the 15th century Wars of the Roses, Harlech was held by the Lancastrians for seven years, before Yorkist troops forced its surrender in 1468, a siege memorialised in the song "Men of Harlech". Following the outbreak of the English Civil War in 1642, the castle was held by forces loyal to Charles I, holding out until 1647 when it became the last fortification to surrender to the Parliamentary armies. In the 21st century the ruined castle is managed by Cadw, the Welsh Government's historic environment service, as a tourist attraction.
UNESCO considers Harlech, with three others at Beaumaris, Conwy and Caernarfon, to be one of "the finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th century military architecture in Europe", and it is classed as a World Heritage Site.
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The Jvari Monastery (Georgian: ჯვარი, meaning cross) is one of the most iconic and historic sites in Georgia. Located near Mtskheta, the monastery is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in the country. Built in the 6th century, the monastery is known as one of the earliest examples of Georgian Christian architecture. It was built on the site where, according to tradition, Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia, erected a large wooden cross. Together with other historical monuments in Mtskheta, the Jvari Monastery has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1994. The monastery is located on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Kura rivers and the historic town of Mtskheta. The building is an example of a tetraconch central dome structure with four apses. Despite its simple design, it is considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The Jvari Pass begins at the monastery. The pass is located at an altitude of approximately 2,379 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the Caucasus. It is an important passage through the Caucasus Mountains to Russia. The area is particularly known for its rugged roads, and in winter the pass can be difficult to navigate due to heavy snowfall. The route offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks, valleys and rivers. The Georgian Military Road was originally used as a trade and military route. Today it is a busy road for freight transport to Russia.
The Jvari Monastery is located in Georgia, on a hilltop near the town of Mtskheta, about 20 kilometers north of the capital, Tbilisi. It is situated at a strategic point where the Aragvi and Mtkvari - Kura rivers meet. This location offers breathtaking panoramic views and holds deep historical and religious significance. Mtskheta, one of Georgia's oldest cities, was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Iberia. The monastery is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its cultural and architectural importance.
Het Jvari-klooster (Georgisch: ჯვარი, wat kruis betekent) is een van de meest iconische en historische locaties in Georgië. Het klooster, gelegen bij Mtskheta, is één van de belangrijkste religieuze en culturele bezienswaardigheden van het land. Het klooster werd gebouwd in de 6e eeuw en staat bekend als een van de vroegste voorbeelden van Georgische christelijke architectuur. Het werd gebouwd op de plek waar volgens de overlevering de heilige Nino, die het christendom naar Georgië bracht, een groot houten kruis oprichtte. Samen met andere historische monumenten in Mtskheta staat het Jvari-klooster sinds 1994 op de UNESCO Werelderfgoedlijst. Het klooster bevindt zich op een heuveltop met een prachtig uitzicht op de samenvloeiing van de rivieren de Aragvi en de Mtkvari Kura en het historische stadje Mtskheta. Het gebouw is een voorbeeld van een tetraconch (centrale koepelstructuur met vier apsissen). Ondanks zijn eenvoudige ontwerp wordt het beschouwd als een meesterwerk van middeleeuwse architectuur. Bij het klooster begint de Jvari-pas. De pas ligt op ongeveer 2.379 meter boven zeeniveau en biedt spectaculaire uitzichten op de Kaukasus. Het is een belangrijke doorgang door het Kaukasusgebergte naar Rusland. Het gebied is met name bekend om zijn ruige wegen, en in de winter kan de pas moeilijk begaanbaar zijn vanwege zware sneeuwval. De route biedt adembenemende uitzichten op bergtoppen, valleien en rivieren. De Georgische Militaire Weg werd oorspronkelijk gebruikt als een handels- en militaire route. Tegenwoordig is het een drukke weg voor vrachtvervoer richting Rusland.