Sacrifice of pigs in the Orthodox Church of Nekresi Monastery

Nekresi Monastery was founded by Saint Abibos Nekreseli, one of the famous thirteen Syrian fathers. Historical records mention that this monastery was built at the beginning of the VI century. It was a bishop's throne. The Nekresi episcopate lasted until the 19th century, so this monastery was of paramount importance for centuries.

It was particularly famous for having withstood the spread of Zoroastrianism in Georgia. In the 6th century, Saint Abibos Nekreseli came to trial against Marzpan (Marzpans were the Persian commanders and governors-general of the border areas) and was sentenced to death after pouring water on the Zoroaster fire to demonstrate that it was not considered revered, once even water was stronger than fire.

There is another special feature of this monastery: the Church of the Holy Virgin is the only sanctuary in Georgia where a pig is venerated as an offering.

The Georgian nation and Christians have always used sheep, cows and birds in sacrifices. While expressing gratitude in this way, they never used the pig. This ritual still exists in Nekresi Monastery. This fact is based on a story:

During the invasion of the Muslim Tatars, the peaceful population fled to the mountains and fought against the brutal invaders. Most of the people housed the Nekresi monastery. The intruders surrounded Nekresi. When the Georgians understood that there was no help for them, they applied in an interesting way. They also had their possessions in the monastery, including pigs. The Georgians starved pigs and then left the herd of pigs facing the enemy. Tatars hated pigs and this led the Muslim army to withdraw, which allowed the monastery to live again in safety. Traditionally, pigs are therefore sacrificed at this place on public holidays.

The monastery complex consists of several churches and monasteries. The oldest building in the monastery complex is the small basilica from the 4th century. It is also one of the oldest churches still in existence today in Georgia. The complex also includes a basilica from the 7th century, which falls under the example of a "three-church basilica". This is an independent Georgian type of church building. In the 8th century the town of Nekresi received a new church with a dome. A tower was also built next to the monastery in the 16th century.

There is ample seating at this said place and a beautiful view of the Alazani Valley. It is an ideal place to withdraw, relax and forget all the negativity around you.

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