Gori

The village of Gori is located in the Ambrolauri Municipality, at an elevation of approximately 680 meters above sea level. It sits on the left bank of the Rioni River, occupying the northern slopes of the watershed between the Krikhula and Rioni rivers. Due to its proximity to the regional center of Ambrolauri—only one kilometer away—the village serves as an accessible part of the local settlement network in the Racha region.

Historical Significance

The central historical landmark in the village is the St. George’s Church, a single-nave building featuring distinct construction phases. The eastern portion of the church, constructed with porous limestone (shirimi), dates back to the developed Middle Ages. The remaining structure underwent a significant reconstruction during the 19th century. The church is enclosed by a wall built from processed stone, a technique commonly observed in traditional ecclesiastical architecture of the Racha region.

Landscape and Access

Part of the Itsa community, Gori maintains a rural character defined by its position on elevated terrain overlooking the Rioni valley. The name "Gori," translating to "hill" in Georgian, accurately reflects its topographical setting. The area is characterized by the vegetation typical of the Rioni River basin. Access to the village is facilitated by local roads connecting it directly to Ambrolauri, allowing for straightforward transit between the village and the urban amenities of the municipality center.