Khojabeki

Khojabeki is a historic settlement in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of Georgia. Located at an impressive elevation of 1,950 meters above sea level, it lies close to the eastern shore of Lake Khanchali. While historically an independent village, Khojabeki has merged over time into the urban fabric of Ninotsminda, functioning today as a prominent neighborhood of the municipality's center.

Geography and Climate

• Alpine Environment: Situated on the high-altitude Javakheti volcanic plateau, Khojabeki experiences a severe continental climate with long, snowy winters and cool summers.
• Proximity to Lake Khanchali: The neighborhood is just 2 kilometers away from Lake Khanchali, a shallow but ecologically significant lake that attracts numerous migratory bird species.
• Integration with Ninotsminda: Today, Khojabeki forms the southern or eastern part of the Ninotsminda town, blending seamlessly with its infrastructure.

History and Heritage

• Founding: The modern settlement was established in the first half of the 19th century by Armenian families migrating from the Erzurum region. The area's older, historical Georgian name is "Kartla."
• Surb Sarkis Church: The spiritual and architectural centerpiece of Khojabeki is the Surb Sarkis (Saint Sarkis) Armenian Apostolic Church. Initially built of wood in the 1840s, it was replaced by a sturdy stone structure between 1882 and 1884.
• Resilience: During the Soviet era, the church was repurposed as a warehouse. However, it was reclaimed by the community in 1993 and underwent significant restoration in 2010, standing today as a fully functioning place of worship.

Local Life

Life in Khojabeki revolves around its strong community ties and the agricultural traditions of the Javakheti plateau. Because of its integration into Ninotsminda, residents have access to the town's urban amenities while maintaining a close-knit, neighborhood feel. The proximity to Lake Khanchali also influences local activities, with pastoral farming and potato cultivation being historical staples of the surrounding landscape.