Batsara Naeklesiari (Jokolo Second Church)

Located in the forested Batsara Gorge in Akhmeta Municipality, the ruins known as Batsara Naeklesiari are identified locally as the Second Church of Jokolo. The site sits near the meeting point of the Batsara and Toloshiskhevi rivers, inside the Batsara-Babaneuri Protected Areas and close to a stand of rare Caucasian yew. It is a quiet forest ruin, not a restored monument, and appeals to hikers interested in early medieval church remains.

Historical Context & Significance

The church is dated to the VIII-IX centuries and belonged to the network of Christian sites that spread through the Pankisi Gorge and the surrounding highlands. Historical descriptions classify it as a three-church basilica measuring about 12 x 11 m, built from large river stone with cut shirimi stone used for corners and architectural details. Today only fragments survive: part of the central apse up to the window base, sections of the north wall, the north-west corner, the outline of the pastophorium and traces of the north church and western ambulatory. The value of the place is in its setting and age rather than in standing architecture.

Architecture & Hidden Details to Look For

• Masonry: Look for the regular courses of river cobble and the better-cut shirimi blocks at corners.
• Plan: The three-church basilica layout is still readable on the ground despite heavy damage.
• Forest integration: The ruin is partly overgrown, which shows how medieval builders placed churches directly in the natural landscape of the Caucasus.

Visitor Information & How to Get There

Access is on foot through forest trails inside the protected area. The approach from the village of Jokolo is about 8 km north to the river confluence. The last driving section is on unpaved forestry roads that can be rough after rain; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended and in wet periods a 4x4 is safer. From the road end you continue by hiking on marked but unmaintained paths. Allow 1–2 hours of walking one way depending on conditions.

Practical Travel Tips for Respectful Tourism

• Visit from late spring to early autumn when trails are dry and passable.
• Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water; there are no facilities on site.
• Stay on existing paths and do not remove stones or vegetation. The area is part of a strict nature reserve with protected yew trees.
• The site is not signposted and has no entry fee. Keep noise low and carry out all waste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an intact church to enter?

No. The name Naeklesiari means a place where a church once stood. You will see foundation walls and low remains, not a roofed building.

Is the hike difficult?

The route is easy to moderate for people used to forest walking. It involves uneven ground and some slope, but no technical climbing.

Can I combine it with nature sightseeing?

Yes. The ruin lies near the Batsara Strict Nature Reserve, famous for its ancient yew grove, and the Makhvali Waterfall area.

What to See Nearby

• Batsara Strict Nature Reserve – protected yew forest with walking trails.
• Village of Jokolo in Pankisi Gorge – local Kist culture, hospitality and cuisine.
• Alaverdi Monastery – one of Kakheti’s largest medieval cathedrals, a contrast to the small forest ruin.