Kumurdo Cathedral

Kumurdo Cathedral () is a Georgian Orthodox Cathedral. It is situated on Javakheti Plateau, southwest from Akhalkalaki. According to the inscriptions on the walls, written with the ancient Georgian writing of Asomtavruli, the Kumurdo Cathedral was built by Ioane the Bishop during the reign of king of the Abkhazians Leon III in 964. It is the first church with imerging features of the 11-13th century architecture of Georgia. During the Middle Ages, Kumurdo was an important cultural, educational and religious center. The cathedral was restored twice (1930; 1970–1980), but it stands without a dome. In 2015, a project for full reconstruction of the cathedral was developed.
Architecture.
The domed building was constructed in stone and was decorated with fine engravings. The windows around the altar are decorated with replicas of bulls, eagles, lions and angels. The interior of the cathedral is decorated with mural paintings. Of special interest is a relief portrait of Queen Gurandukht, the mother of King Bagrat III.
Epigraphy of the church.
The inscriptions on the southern and eastern facades tell that the church was built by architect Sakotsari with the order of Bishop Ioanne in 964.
Later alterations by Bishop Zosime are documented on the southern facade. He added a portal to the western arm, and ordered golden decorations from master David.