Tsachkhuroba: cradles, dolls and a prayer for a child

Tsachkhuroba is held every year on the Thursday of Easter week, so its date moves with Easter.

An old belief

Before Christianity, Tsachkhuri had an idol called Moske, believed to protect fertility. Village elders performed rituals here and people asked for a child. After Christianity came, the belief passed to the icon of the Archangel, called "Moske-Tsachkhuri".

The festival day

Childless couples come with cradles and dolls. A special service is held for them, they receive communion, and are then invited to a meal prepared by the diocese.

If you plan to go

• the church is about 30 minutes' drive from Martvili;
• it gets crowded on the day, so arrive early;
• dress modestly for the church.