Gialia Monastery

Alright, history buffs – I’ve got the scoop on Gialia Monastery, and let me tell you, it’s got some serious medieval vibes.

We’re talking ruins, people! And not just any ruins – this bad boy is a Georgian Orthodox monastery dedicated to none other than the Virgin Mary (aka The Golden Virgin Mary of Gialia).

Before you start thinking this place is in the middle of nowhere, let me tell you – it’s located in a legit forest just five kilometers from the coast near the small town of Polis Chrysochous. Yeah, that’s right – the perfect spot for some serious exploring.

Speaking of exploring, did you know that the ruins were identified in 1981 by the Georgian scholar Wachtang Djobadze of California State University?

That’s right; this place has been on the radar for a while. But it wasn’t until 2006 that systematic archaeological research followed after the Georgian and Cypriot governments agreed to work together. I mean, hey, better late than never, right?

So come down to Gialia Monastery and get your medieval fix – don’t forget your explorer hat (or maybe a knight’s helmet if you’re feeling extra fancy).