Gelati Monastery, Kutaisi

Gelati was not simply a monastery: it was also a centre of science and education, and the Academy established there was one of the most important centres of culture in ancient Georgia. King David gathered eminent intellectuals to his Academy such as Johannes Petritzi, a Neo-Platonic philosopher best known for his translations of Proclus, and Arsen Ikaltoeli, a learned monk, whose translations of doctrinal and polemical works were compiled into his Dogmatikon, or book of teachings, influenced by Aristotelianism. Gelati also had a scriptorium were monastic scribes copied manuscripts (although its location is not known). Among several books created there, the best known is an amply illuminated 12th century gospel, housed in the National Centre of Manuscripts.

You can absolutely see why this is a UNESCO world heritage site, one can feel the history emanating from the very stones! Shane it was under renovation when I was there but this must be done to preserve for another 800 years. Do remember this is still a working monastery. I also highly recommend doing the monks paths loop though the beach forest.