Patriarchate Releases Statement Regarding Developments around Jvari Monastery

Georgia’s Patriarchate has released a statement regarding the recent developments surrounding Georgia’s 6th century Jvari Monastery, which was closed down to tourists due to the presence of street traders near the site.

“We understand that people live in poverty and use various ways to earn living but when there are so many tourists and pilgrims in the country, it is awkward for Georgia of the 21st century to be represented by such disorder near the old temples,” the statement reads.

The Patriarchate of Georgia called on the government and the Ministry of Culture to take effective steps to “civilize the activities of street traders in areas adjacent to the Church.”

The vendors protested the decision of the Church Head, Alexander Chincharauli, to close the temple.

They say that street trading is the only way for them to earn money.

The vendors call on the Church Head to re-open the site, adding they will not stop trading near the church.

Jvari Monastery is a sixth century Georgian Orthodox monastery near Mtskheta, eastern Georgia. Along with other historic sites of Mtskheta, it is listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

By Thea Morrison

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