Shuamta

(also Dzveli-Shuamta or Staraia Shuamta; that is, Old Shuamta), a complex of medieval churches located 7 km southwest of Telavi, Georgian SSR. The main structures are a fifth-century basilica and two seventh-century domed churches, including one large structure similar in style to Dzhvari and one smaller church. Located 2 km from Dzveli-Shuamta is Akhali-Shuamta (Novaia Shuamta or New Shuamta), a 16th-century monastery with a domed church of the 16th or 17th century with 16th-century interior paintings.