It is impossible to be in Tbilisi and not visit this majestic place. The Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Sameba, is one of the most visited religious sites in Tbilisi. The cathedral is visible from almost any part of the city. By visiting it, you will not only spiritually enrich yourself but also admire the beauty and grandeur of this place.
History of Creation
The idea of creating a monumental building emerged in 1989, but due to a lack of funding and the difficult situation in the country, construction began only in 1995. There is an opinion that the cathedral was built with donations from parishioners and the financial support of businessman Bidzina Ivanishvili.
The cathedral was first opened to visitors in 2002, and two years later it was consecrated. The construction work continued for 9 years, and the decorative work is still ongoing.
Building Infrastructure
The cathedral has a height of 101 meters and is the tallest in Georgia. It ranks third in the world in terms of height. During its construction, it was embedded into the rock to a depth of 40 meters to protect it from earthquakes.
There is a belief that the cathedral stands on bones because it was built on the territory of an Armenian cemetery. Local residents believe that the remains were not relocated and properly buried as they should have been.
Entrance to the Cathedral
The cathedral is approached by a staircase, climbing which you can see the city as the cathedral is located on a hill. The main entrance is mostly closed and is only opened on holidays. You can enter the cathedral through the side doors, which are equally beautiful and adorned with intricate carvings.
Next to the side entrances, there are shops where you can buy not only candles but also church souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Interior Decor
Inside, it is cool and peaceful. The walls are adorned with numerous icons, many of which were painted by Patriarch-Catholicos Ilia II. The floor is made of marble, and some columns are also made of this stone. Most of the icons are labeled (presumably for tourists). There is even a golden icon encrusted with precious stones, depicting 400 Georgian saints.
The cathedral has five chapels and thirteen thrones. Five of the nine chapels are located underground.
Underground Floors
Sameba Cathedral also impresses with its two underground floors. You can access them by descending the stairs or entering from the street.
On the first floor, there is a dimly lit hall with a colonnade.
On the second floor, you will find the Lower Church dedicated to the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. There are also two stone tombs designed for the remains of Georgian rulers - Teimuraz II and Vakhtang VI.
Sameba Cathedral Complex
You can spend a whole day exploring the cathedral complex - it is vast and there is plenty to see.
Be sure to visit the bell tower - it is stunning. Inside, there are nine bells, one of which weighs 8 tons (the main bell). From the bell tower platform, you can enjoy a truly magnificent view.
Also, next to the cathedral, you will find: a park with benches, drinking fountains, a small zoo corner with swans and peacocks, a small apiary, the Patriarch's residence, a hotel, a spiritual academy, and a seminary. There is even a restaurant here.
How to Get There
Marshrutka (minibus) - board minibus number 91 or 122. Alternatively, check with the driver if they go to the desired destination. Get off at the stop called "Sameba".
Metro - exit at the "Avlabari" station.
Car - take a taxi or a rented car, or drive your own car. There won't be any parking issues.
Useful Information
It is best to visit the cathedral early in the morning when it's not too hot and there are fewer tourists.
Opening hours: The cathedral is open every day at any time.
Tips for tourists:
When visiting the cathedral, don't forget to bring a hat or a cap.
The Sameba Cathedral is located in the Tbilisi Valley, and it can get very hot during the summer. Try to stay in the shade to avoid heatstroke, and make sure to bring water with you.
Interesting fact! In Georgia and other Balkan countries, candles in churches are placed in sand. For health, they are placed near icons, and for the deceased, they are placed near the crucifix.
