Otkhta Church (Dort Kilise)

Otkhta Church (Dort Kilise)

The Otkhta Church, referred to as Dörtkilise in Turkish, is a Georgian monastery founded by King David Kurapalat between 961 and 965. It stands among the prominent cathedrals of Tao-Klarjeti, alongside Oshki, Ishkhani, and Khakhuli. The name "Otkhta" means "from the fourth" and represents one of the significant historical and cultural areas located in northeastern Turkey and southwestern Georgia, centered around the basins of the Chorokhi and Kura rivers, as well as the upper reaches of the Aras river.

Originally, the Otkhta church was established as a convent and educational institution and has seen multiple restorations, including the addition of a porch between 978 and 1001. The religious complex consists of four structures: a belfry, a refectory, a seminar hall, and a chapel. Like other monasteries in this region, this medieval site exemplifies the architectural mastery of its era.

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