Bodbe Monastery

Bodbe Monastery, two kilometers from Sighnaghi, stands on the land where a church dedicated to Saint Nino, Georgia's Christian enlightener, was founded in the 6th century. Her relics are buried here, and pilgrims gather every January 14 for the feast day. The monastery was closed and turned into a hospital under Soviet rule, but restoration returned it to spiritual life by 2003. Its treasures include Saint Nino's tomb, the miracle-working Iveron Icon of the Mother of God, and a spring reached by 643 hand-cut steps. A viewpoint behind the church overlooks the Alazani Valley, while icon-painting and gold-embroidery workshops continue its artistic traditions.

Bodbe preserves the memory of Saint Nino, who at the age of 14 received a vision of the Virgin Mary and was sent to Georgia to spread Christianity. She preached and healed the sick. One miraculous cure involved Queen Nana and moved both her and King Mirian so deeply that they accepted Christianity and baptized their people.