Dzveli Kanda

Geography and Environment

Dzveli Kanda is situated in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, within the Mtskheta Municipality. The village lies on the historic Mukhrani Valley at an elevation of 520 meters above sea level. Its strategic location near the capital, Tbilisi, and the ancient city of Mtskheta makes it easily accessible. The fertile lands of the Mukhrani Valley and the mild climate provide an ideal setting for agriculture and a peaceful rural lifestyle.

History and the Assyrian Community

The history of Dzveli Kanda is inextricably linked to the Assyrian people, who began settling here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Most residents are descendants of Assyrians who migrated from the Urmia region in modern-day Iran. Today, Dzveli Kanda stands as one of the most significant centers for the Assyrian diaspora in Georgia. With a population of approximately 1,100, the village maintains a vibrant cultural identity, preserving the Assyrian language and ancient traditions alongside Georgian customs.

Monastery of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers

The spiritual heart of the village is the Monastery of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers, established in 2010. This monastery has gained international renown as one of the few places in the world where Orthodox services are conducted in Aramaic—the language of Jesus Christ. Led by Schema-Archimandrite Seraphim Bit-Kharibi, the monastery attracts thousands of visitors who come to hear his soul-stirring chants. The architecture of the monastery reflects a blend of traditional spiritual aesthetics and modern simplicity, creating a profound atmosphere of tranquility.

Local Life and Culture

Life in Dzveli Kanda is characterized by a unique synthesis of two ancient cultures. Agriculture remains the primary occupation for many locals, but the village is also a center for education and cultural preservation. The local public school offers lessons in the Assyrian language, ensuring that the younger generation stays connected to their roots. Visitors to the village are often struck by the warm hospitality and the harmonious blend of Georgian and Assyrian culinary traditions, music, and daily life.