We will tell you about the most important temples and churches in Tbilisi, which is worth a visit for a tourist.
Multi-ethnic Georgia lives harmoniously and peacefully. Not only different nationalities but also religions coexist well here. Historically, surrounded by Muslim countries, Georgia was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity. As a result, most of the churches in the country are Orthodox, but there are also many churches of other denominations. Tbilisi, like the entire country, is dotted with diverse churches that attract not only pilgrims but also tourists. Let's learn more about them.
Georgian Orthodox Churches
Georgia has undergone centuries of testing the strength of the Christian faith. Defending not only its independence but also its religion in battles against invaders, the country managed to preserve its faith. While strolling through Tbilisi, you can admire beautiful Orthodox churches.
Tsminda Sameba or Holy Trinity Cathedral
Sameba is the tallest cathedral in Georgia. It stands at a height of 101 meters, and its golden domes are visible from almost anywhere in Tbilisi. The size of the church is impressive - it can accommodate up to 15,000 worshipers at a time. The church is located on St. Elijah's Hill, which offers a magnificent view of the capital.
The territory of the church is quite extensive - in addition to the main building, there is a small bell tower, a beekeeping area, and a cozy park.
History
The church is relatively young. Its construction began in 1995 and lasted for 9 years. Wall paintings are still being done. Tsminda Sameba was built with the support of a benefactor.
How to Get to the Cathedral
By car or taxi - there is a parking lot near the church.
By metro to Avlabari metro station.
By minibus to the "Sameba" bus stop.
Metekhi Church
Metekhi Church is an ancient architectural monument in Georgia. It stands on a cliff on the bank of the Kura River. Inside the church, there is the icon of St. Shushanik, which is believed to grant wishes, and according to legends, Queen Tamar herself prayed in this church.
History
In the 5th century, the founder of Tbilisi, Vakhtang Gorgasali, built a fortress and the Metekhi Church on the cliff. Throughout its history, the Metekhi Church has experienced numerous invasions, changes in power, and has been destroyed and restored several times. During Soviet rule, the church was used as a youth theater and was only returned to the church in 1988.
How to Get to the Church
By metro to "Avlabari" metro station.
By bus to the "Europe Square" bus stop.
By walking down Metekhi descent.
Kashveti Church (St. George's Church)
While strolling along Tbilisi's central avenue, Rustaveli, the only church you will see is Kashveti Church. According to legend, the church received its name from a fulfilled prophecy by Assyrian priest David. He predicted to a nun who called him the father of her future child that she would give birth to a stone. And so it happened, and the place was named Kashveti from the words "kva" (stone) and "shva" (to give birth). Believers come to the Church of St. George to venerate the miraculous icon of St. David.
History
Kashveti Church was built on the site of an ancient church in the early 20th century and resembles the ancient Samtavisi Church. Builders from different countries were involved in the project. Due to its location opposite the Georgian Parliament, the church served as a shelter for the wounded during a dispersal of a rally in 1989.
How to Get to the Church
By metro to "Freedom Square" metro station.
By bus to the "Kashveti Church" bus stop.
Sioni Cathedral
Sioni Cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption and is named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem. It can be seen clearly while climbing up to the Narikala Fortress. The cathedral houses the main relic of Georgia, the Holy Cross of Saint Nino, which is woven from grapevines.
History
In the 7th century, this place was given to the church. Since then, the cathedral has endured numerous trials: it was destroyed by the Arabs and later by the Khwarazmians, burned by the Persian Shah Aga-Mohammad Khan, and demolished by an earthquake. The present appearance of the cathedral dates back to the 18th century, and its reconstruction and fresco painting continued until the 20th century. Due to its tumultuous history, the church is unique with two bell towers on its premises—one built in the 15th century and the other in the 19th century.
How to Get to the Cathedral
You can reach the cathedral by taking buses that go to the "Sioni Church" bus stop.
St. Nicholas Church
Like most churches in Tbilisi, St. Nicholas Church was rebuilt. Only small fragments of the original structure remain today.
History
The history of the church dates back to the 13th century. However, the church functioned only until Georgia joined the Russian Empire. Afterward, the authorities decided to give the church building to the military, who used it as a weapons depot. However, after a lightning strike damaged the building, a decision was made to restore it to its original appearance.
How to Get to the Church
You can reach the church by walking or taking the cable car.
Churches and Cathedrals of Other Denominations
Having endured numerous invasions and periods under the rule of different nations, Georgia remains hospitable not only to tourists but also to believers of various denominations and faiths. Thanks to this, everyone can find their sanctuary in Tbilisi.
Norashen Church
Norashen is one of the two churches of the Armenian Apostolic Church in Tbilisi. This beautiful and cozy church warmly welcomes every believer.
History
Norashen was built by Armenian settlers from the village of Ejmiatsin, who named their church New Ejmiatsin. The church was founded in the 18th century and was without a dome for a long time. It was only after reconstruction that the church acquired the appearance we can see today.
How to Get to the Church
You can reach the church by metro or by taking minibuses. The stop to get off at is "Avlabari".
Surb Gevorg Church
Surb Gevorg is another Armenian church located in Tbilisi. The church is situated on the right bank of the Kura River and is considered the oldest Armenian church in the capital of Georgia. The walls of Gevorg Church are adorned with beautiful frescoes created by masters from different eras.
History
The construction of the church began in the 13th century, funded by a wealthy merchant. Surb Gevorg was forgotten during the period of Persian rule in Georgia, but it was restored by the Armenian diaspora and survived a major fire. Despite these challenges, it has endured throughout history.
How to Get to the Church
You can reach the church on foot, heading towards the Narikala Fortress hill. Surb Gevorg is clearly visible from the hilltop.
Juma Mosque (Friday Mosque)
While strolling near the sulfur baths in Tbilisi, you will be drawn to the unique building of the mosque. Juma Mosque is the only mosque in Tbilisi. It peacefully coexists with both Shiites and Sunnis, and the mosque itself is located in close proximity to an Orthodox cathedral and a synagogue.
History
In the 18th century, the Ottomans built the mosque in Tiflis (the ancient name of Tbilisi), which was destroyed by the Persians a few years later during their invasion. The 19th century saw the construction and subsequent destruction of the mosque. Today, the mosque is fully functional, welcoming both worshippers and ordinary tourists.
How to Get to the Mosque
You can reach the mosque by taking minibuses to the "Abanotubani" stop.
Great Synagogue of Tbilisi
Perhaps the only sanctuary in Tbilisi that has not undergone destruction and reconstruction. Within the synagogue grounds, you can enjoy a meal at a café offering kosher dishes or relax on the benches in the shade.
History
The synagogue was built by the natives of the village of Akhaltsikhe in the early 20th century.
How to Get to the Synagogue
You need to reach the "Zion Church" stop and then take a short walk through the city's streets.
