Virgin Mary's Cathedral dated to tenth-eleventh century is located in Bichvinta, Gagra District of Abkhazia. The initial construction of the temple is connected to the name of Andrew the Apostle who preached Christianity here in first century AD and built the cathedral. The modern domed cathedral represents the architectural design of tenth and eleven century.
In the 30ies of the nineteenth century, by the order of the Russian Emperor, they changed the shape of the dome and the walls were rendered and painted. In the 60ies of twentieth century by the recommendation of Giorgi Chubinashvili restoration work was carried out in the temple and it partially returned to its original look.
At present, the Bichvinta monastery is under control of the de facto government of Abkhazia and worshipers and clerics are not able to pray in this historic church, religious services are no longer held and even more – a concert hall is arranged in the vast space of the temple.
One of the best organs in Europe was installed in the Virgin Mary Cathedral of Bichvinta in November 1975.
Russian tourist sites report, organ and chamber music concerts are regularly held in the temple. Ticket prices are 200-350 rubles (15-30 GEL).

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