As part of the events marking the 1,700th anniversary of the proclamation of Christianity as the state religion of Georgia, Vice Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia Nino Tsilosani, Chair of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee Mariam Lashkhi, members of the Committee, and the Member of Parliament representing the municipalities of Khulo, Shuakhevi and Keda, Anzor Bolkvadze, visited the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos in Skhalta, Zemo Ajara, where they attended the Divine Liturgy.

"During our visit to Zemo Ajara, we visited the Skhalta Monastery. It is the only church built in the twelfth century that survived the most difficult periods of our history and has been preserved to this day. This year, Georgia marks the 1,700th anniversary of the proclamation of Christianity as the state religion. Throughout the year, we plan to visit the holy sites that have preserved Christianity, our national identity and our faith. Skhalta Monastery is truly exemplary in this regard. The local community has carefully safeguarded this cradle of faith”, - stated Nino Tsilosani.

"This year, Georgia celebrates the 1,700th anniversary of the proclamation of Christianity as the state religion. The Parliament has planned a series of events across the country to commemorate this historic milestone. Ajara holds a special place in this anniversary, as it was here that Saint Andrew the First-Called first preached Christianity. For Georgian Orthodox Christians, this region is of exceptional historical and spiritual significance”, - said Mariam Lashkhi, Chair of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee.

During their visit to Skhalta, the Members of Parliament also toured the house museum of Sherif Khimshiashvili, a distinguished public figure and the last ruler of Zemo Ajara.