Tbilisi, Georgia – The Saint Gevork of Mughni Church, a remarkable 13th-century Armenian architectural treasure nestled in the heart of Tbilisi, Georgia, has fallen into a state of disrepair, raising concerns among locals and historians alike.
Architecture and History
Also known as the Saint George of Mughni Church due to the cognate equivalence of “Gevork” with “George” in Armenian, this venerable structure boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Originally constructed in the Armenian architectural style, the church’s distinct cross-within-a-rectangle design, flanked by four free-standing supports, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of its builders.
In 1756, a significant reconstruction effort completely revitalized the church, transforming it into a mesmerizing exemplar of brickwork and architectural finesse. Throughout its long and storied existence, the church has served various purposes, evolving alongside the cultural landscape of the region.
Until the mid-1980s, the Saint Gevork of Mughni Church served as a vibrant repository of folk art, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Georgian history. However, the passage of time has not been kind to this iconic landmark. By 1990, the once-thriving museum had succumbed to neglect, leaving its interior in a state of ruin and disarray.
Tragedy struck the church once again in May 1991, as the vestibule attached to its western facade was razed to the ground. Georgian authorities cited substantial cracks in the church’s walls as justification for the decision, a choice that raised eyebrows among preservationists who questioned whether the destruction was truly the only viable path.
The Saint Gevork of Mughni Church faced yet another devastating blow on the night of November 18, 2009, when its dome collapsed under the weight of its deteriorating structure. Local witnesses pointed to recent rains as exacerbating the already precarious condition of the church, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
Georgian television station Rustavi 2 reported that, following a visit to the site on November 19, 2009, the district governor pledged to allocate funds for the restoration and rehabilitation of the church. This promise offered a glimmer of hope to those who yearn to see this architectural gem restored to its former glory.
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