Tekkale Monastery (Artvin)

Tekkale Monastery is an ancient complex of structures located in the Yusufeli district of Artvin Province, Türkiye. The site is situated among mountains, within the Chorokhi River Valley. For children, the monastery can be thought of as a large school where people once lived, studied, and worshipped together. This historical structure is an important cultural heritage site built during the Middle Ages.

Tekkale Monastery (Culture Portal)

⌛️ Time Travel

Tekkale Monastery was constructed approximately 1,000 years ago, in the 10th century. At that time, this region was under the rule of Georgian kingdoms. The name of the structure derives from the Georgian term Otkhta Eklesia, meaning "Four Churches." According to historical records and inscriptions (writings carved on stone), construction of this monastery began. During that period, the monastery served as a major center of religious and cultural life in the region.

Tekkale Monastery (Culture Portal)

🏰 What Does the Monastery Consist Of?

The monastery is not a single building but a complex of interconnected structures. It is known as a monastery complex.

The main building is a large, high, three-part church. In plan, the church resembles another significant structure in the region, the Barhal Church. Other components of the monastery include a refectory, rooms where manuscripts were stored, a seminar room (where lessons were given), and small chapels (small places of worship). The monastery was organized like a school or a small village.

Tekkale Monastery (Culture Portal)

🧱 Architecture and Decorations

The walls of Tekkale Monastery are constructed from cut stone. Circular arches and windows are symmetrically arranged on the exterior facades. Inside the building, wall paintings known as frescoes are present. A fresco is a type of wall painting executed on wet plaster, designed to last for a long time.

These frescoes and geometric motifs demonstrate the richness of the structure’s decorative elements. However, over time, natural events and damage have affected the roof and some walls. Nevertheless, the surviving fragments of frescoes provide valuable information about the art of that era.

🗺️ Where Is It Located?

Tekkale Monastery is located near the village of Çevreli in the Yusufeli district of Artvin Province. The monastery was built on steep and rugged terrain. Its integration with the natural landscape continues to attract visitors. Although no longer used for worship, the site is protected and open to the public by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism.