Jikheti Convent (Nunnery)

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Jikheti Convent (Nunnery)

Overview

Jikheti Convent, or Nunnery (ჯიხეთის დედათა მონასტერი – Jikhetis Dedata Monasteri), located in the Guria region of western Georgia, is an important center of female monasticism and a significant pilgrimage site within the region. Situated near the village of Jikheti in the Lanchkhuti Municipality, this monastery, unlike many ancient Georgian sites, has a relatively recent history, primarily dating back to the late 19th century. Its establishment represents a period of religious revival and the dedication of notable figures of the time to fostering monastic life.

Founded around the 1890s, historical accounts often link its establishment to the efforts of figures like Elena Konstantinovna Tarkhan-Mouravi (who later became Mother Nino) and the local clergyman Simon Mgaloblishvili. This period, under the Russian Empire, saw renewed interest in establishing and restoring monastic communities in Georgia. Jikheti quickly gained renown, largely due to the venerated icons housed within its walls. Traditionally, it is particularly associated with wonderworking icons of the Mother of God, possibly including a revered copy of the Panagia Portaitissa (Iveron Icon) from Mount Athos or other miracle-working images brought back from holy sites, making it a focal point for prayer and pilgrimage.

Like virtually all religious institutions in Georgia, Jikheti Convent faced immense challenges during the Soviet era. It was closed down, and monastic life ceased for decades, with the buildings potentially suffering neglect or repurposed use. However, following Georgia’s independence and the broader religious resurgence in the country, Jikheti was revived in the late 20th century. Nuns returned, monastic life was re-established, and restoration efforts were undertaken to repair the buildings and reinstate the convent as a functioning spiritual center.

Today, Jikheti Convent is an active and respected nunnery within the Georgian Orthodox Church. It continues its tradition of prayer, hospitality, and devotion, centered around its venerated icons. While its main church architecture reflects the styles of the late 19th or early 20th century rather than the deep medieval past, its spiritual significance, connection to specific historical figures, the power of its icons, and its role as a haven of female monasticism make it an important site in the religious landscape of Guria.

Basic Identification

• Full Name: Jikheti Convent (or Nunnery) of the Mother of God (ჯიხეთის ღვთისმშობლის სახელობის დედათა მონასტერი – Jikhetis Ghvtismshoblis Sakhelobis Dedata Monasteri). Sometimes dedication specifics vary or are generalized to the Mother of God.
• Common Alternative Name: Jikheti Convent / Jikheti Nunnery (Jikhetis Monasteri).
• Type: Georgian Orthodox Convent (Nunnery – female monastery).
• Location: Located near the village of Jikheti, Lanchkhuti Municipality, Guria region, Georgia. Situated in a rural, relatively hilly area.

Historical Background

• Founding: Established in the late 19th century, typically dated around 1890-1896. Key figures associated with its founding include Elena Konstantinovna Tarkhan-Mouravi (Mother Nino) and the priest Simon Mgaloblishvili.
• Key Dates & Events:

• c. 1890-1896: Founding of the convent and construction of initial buildings/church. Acquisition of venerated icons.
• Late 19th/Early 20th Century: Flourishing period as a newly established nunnery, gaining popularity due to icons.
• Soviet Period (after 1920s): Closed down by the Soviet authorities; monastic life interrupted; possible damage or neglect.
• Late 20th Century (Post-Soviet): Reopened and revived; monastic life re-established; restoration and repair work undertaken.

• Historical Figures: Elena Tarkhan-Mouravi (Mother Nino), Simon Mgaloblishvili (founders/initiators).
• Legends: While perhaps not ancient legends, stories and accounts related to the miracles attributed to the icons housed at Jikheti are central to its reputation and pilgrimage appeal.

Significance and Purpose

• Religious Importance: An important active Georgian Orthodox nunnery in the Guria region. Primarily known for housing highly venerated and reportedly miracle-working icons, particularly of the Mother of God (such as a copy of the Iveron icon). A significant site for pilgrimage, drawing believers seeking healing or divine intercession.
• Cultural Importance: Represents the late 19th-century revival of monasticism in Georgia under specific historical circumstances. Embodies the continuity of female monastic tradition through periods of suppression.
• Architectural Importance: The main church and buildings reflect late 19th/early 20th-century ecclesiastical architectural styles in Georgia, which often blended traditional Georgian motifs with contemporary Russian or European influences, or simplified traditional forms. Its value lies more in its historical context and function than in representing a major medieval architectural style.
• Current Status: Active Georgian Orthodox Convent (Nunnery) and a pilgrimage site.

Architectural and Artistic Description

• Exterior: The complex likely includes a main church built in the late 19th or early 20th century. Architecturally, it might be a hall church or a simple cross-dome structure, possibly built of stone or brick, potentially plastered. Decoration would likely reflect the period – perhaps simpler than medieval carvings, possibly incorporating neoclassical or Russian architectural elements common at the time. A bell tower, likely of similar or slightly later construction, is usually part of the complex. Defensive walls might enclose the monastery grounds.
• Interior: The main church interior would feature a sanctuary with an iconostasis separating it from the nave. Decoration likely includes murals (frescoes) and icons from the period of founding/restoration or contemporary works. The style would likely differ significantly from medieval frescoes.
• Artworks: The most significant artworks housed at Jikheti are its venerated icons, particularly those of the Theotokos, renowned for their perceived miracle-working properties. These icons are the primary focus of devotion and pilgrimage. The iconostasis and any surviving or contemporary murals also contribute to the artistic environment.
• Complex (for Monasteries): As an active nunnery, the complex includes the main church, a bell tower, residential buildings housing the nuns’ cells, likely a refectory (dining hall), workshops for monastic crafts (e.g., embroidery, icon painting), possibly agricultural buildings or gardens, and an enclosure wall.

Practical Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: Generally open to visitors during daylight hours (e.g., 10:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM), but access may be more restricted than at purely historical sites, respecting the nuns’ schedule and privacy. Access during services is usually possible if respectful.
• Admission Fees: Free entry. Donations are gratefully accepted.
• Accessibility: Located in a rural area in Guria, accessible by road. The final approach or roads within the region might be less developed. The monastery grounds might have slopes or steps. Accessibility for those with mobility issues could be limited.
• Rules and Etiquette:

• Dress Code: Very strict adherence to the Orthodox dress code is required, especially for a nunnery. Women MUST wear long skirts/dresses (well below the knee) and cover their heads completely with a scarf. Men MUST wear long trousers. No shorts, sleeveless tops, etc. Shoulders must be covered for everyone. Proper attire is essential for entry.
• Photography/Videography: Often highly restricted, particularly inside the church and especially regarding the venerated icons. Taking photos of nuns is generally forbidden without explicit permission. Always ask before taking any pictures inside buildings. Outdoor photography might be permitted but discretion is advised.
• Behavior: Maintain utmost quiet, reverence, and respectful behavior. Avoid loud conversations or actions that could disturb the monastic atmosphere and the nuns’ life of prayer.

• Facilities: Basic facilities like restrooms may be available. There might be a small church shop selling candles, icons, or items made by the nuns. No cafes or major tourist facilities on site. Nearest significant town is Lanchkhuti.
• Service Times: Regular Orthodox services are conducted daily according to the monastic typikon. Visitors may attend these services, provided they adhere strictly to the rules of dress and behavior. Major feast days related to the Mother of God would be particularly important here.