Garklupi St. Mary’s Chapel (Nasoflari)

Hidden within the vast, historical landscapes of the Tsalka municipality, the remnants of the Garklupi St. Mary’s Chapel stand as a quiet, stoic testament to the region's religious past. While the local toponym 'Nasoflari' indicates a former village site, today the area is primarily defined by the silent endurance of this stone structure. The chapel serves as a modest, yet dignified example of traditional ecclesiastical architecture, crafted to withstand the harsh conditions of the Georgian highlands.

Historical Context and Architecture

The structure is a classic single-nave basilica. Much like other historical monuments scattered across the Trialeti region, the chapel is built using local basalt stone. Despite the degradation brought on by centuries of exposure and severe winters, the building’s proportions remain clearly recognizable. You will notice the complete absence of elaborate decorative elements; this was a deliberate choice common in remote mountain churches where function and structural integrity were prioritized over ornamentation. The orientation of the apse follows the traditional east-west alignment. A close look at the masonry reveals the impressive skill of the ancient stonemasons who shaped the aesthetic of this high plateau long ago.

Visiting Information

The chapel is located near the village of Garklupi, just a short distance from the main Tsalka-Ninotsminda highway. Travelers often overlook this segment of the Trialeti range, yet it offers a unique opportunity to connect with lesser-known monuments in peace. The terrain is relatively flat, but the ground around the ruins can be uneven, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is highly recommended. A visit usually takes between 1 to 2 hours, which is ample time to inspect the stonework and enjoy a quiet walk through the surrounding fields that offer sweeping views of the rolling plateaus.

Local Tips

The ideal time for a visit is from late spring to early autumn, when the roads are easily passable and the landscape is vibrant with wildflowers. Since this is an unmonitored, open-air site, having a reliable map or GPS coordinates is essential. Many tourists miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Tsalka Reservoir, which provides a perfect, serene backdrop for a picnic after your historical detour. Because the site sits on a high, exposed plateau, the weather can change quickly—always carry a windbreaker, as the gusts here can be surprisingly strong regardless of the season.

To make the most of your trip, consider combining your visit with a stop at the nearby Dashbashi Canyon or the Tbeti Monastery. These sites are within a short drive, allowing you to easily craft a comprehensive half-day itinerary through one of Georgia’s most underrated regions.