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.
Assumption church (Metekhi Temple)
The Metekhi Temple is an ancient architectural monument of Georgia. It stands high on a cliff by the Kura River. Inside the temple is the miracle-working icon of Saint Shushanik, and according to legends, Queen Tamar herself used to pray here.
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 Assumption Church endured numerous invasions and regime changes. It was destroyed several times and rebuilt. During the Soviet era, the church was used as a youth theater, and only in 1988 was it returned to the Georgian Orthodox Church.
How to get to the church
By metro to "Avlabari" station.
By bus to the "Europe Square" stop.
On foot via Metekhi descent.
Kashveti church (church of St. George)
Walking along Tbilisi's main avenue, Rustaveli, the only church you will see is Kashveti Church. According to legend, it got its name from a prophecy by the Assyrian monk David. A nun who falsely accused him of being the father of her child was told she would give birth to a stone — and she did. The place was then called "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 Saint David.
History
Kashveti was built on the site of an ancient temple at the beginning of the 20th century and externally resembles the old Samtavisi Church. Builders from various countries worked on the project. Due to its location opposite the Georgian Parliament, the church became a refuge for the wounded during the dispersal of a protest in 1989.
How to get to the church
By metro to "Liberty Square" station.
By bus to the "Kashveti Church" stop.
Sioni Cathedral
Sioni is consecrated in honor of the Assumption Church and named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem. It is clearly visible while ascending the Narikala Tower. The cathedral houses Georgia’s main relic — the cross of Saint Nino, woven from grapevines.
History
As early as the 7th century, this site was given to the church. Since then, the cathedral has endured many hardships: it was destroyed by Arabs, later by Khwarezmians; burned by Persian Shah Agha Mohammad Khan; and damaged by an earthquake.
The cathedral acquired its current appearance only in the 18th century, and the restoration and fresco painting continued into the 20th century. Due to its complex history, the church is unique in having two bell towers on its grounds — one built in the 15th century and the other in the 19th.
How to get to the cathedral
You can get here by buses going to the “Sioni Church” stop.
Church of Saint Nicholas
Like most churches in Tbilisi, the Church of Saint Nicholas was rebuilt from scratch. Only small parts of the original structure remain in the walls.
History
The church’s history began in the 13th century. It functioned until Georgia became part of the Russian Empire. From that point on, the building was handed over to the military, who used it as an armory. However, after a lightning strike hit the church, it was decided to restore its original appearance.
How to get to the church
You can reach it on foot or by 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.
