What is Svetitskhovloba (Mtskhetoba) and when is it celebrated?
The feast of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral on October 14.
Short answer
Svetitskhovloba, or Mtskhetoba, is the religious and cultural feast of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, held on October 14, and the Labour Code lists the day among the public holidays. The code calls it the holiday of Svetitskhovloba and the Robe of Jesus.
Why
- The Labour Code of Georgia (Article 30) lists October 14 as Mtskhetoba (the holiday of Svetitskhovloba, Robe of Jesus).
- The holiday is dedicated to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.
- The cathedral is in Mtskheta, the ancient capital, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Details
Svetitskhovloba is a significant religious and cultural holiday. The cathedral stands in Mtskheta. More on the town and the cathedral: what to see in Mtskheta.
Other autumn dates near this holiday are in the dates of Mariamoba, Giorgoba and Tbilisoba. All days off in the year: public holidays in Georgia.
Tip
If you go to Mtskheta on October 14, expect crowds at the cathedral and plan your trip ahead.
What may differ
The festival programme in Mtskheta changes from year to year, so check current events in city announcements.
Common misconception
Svetitskhovloba is a local holiday of Mtskheta only, and an ordinary day elsewhere in the country.
What actually happens
October 14 is on the list of holidays in the Labour Code of Georgia, so it is a national holiday.
People also ask
- When is Mtskhetoba in Georgia?
Sources
- Labour Code of Georgia, Article 30 (Holidays)Checked at:
- Georgia.travel: National Holidays in GeorgiaChecked at:
This answer is for reference. Dates and rules can change, so check the official websites.
Mtskhetoba-Svetitskhovloba: city day and holidayRelated questions
-
How do you register a marriage in Georgia?
Marriages in Georgia are registered at a Wedding House, a territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency or a Public Service Hall branch, and marriage is allowed from the age of 18.
-
How do toasts work at a Georgian feast and what is alaverdi?
At a Georgian feast the tamada leads the toasts: he proposes toasts suited to the occasion and is usually the most eloquent and respected guest.
-
What to give a Georgian, and what gifts to bring from Russia?
When visiting Georgians you can bring sweets, good tea or coffee, flowers for the hostess or a gift for the children.
-
What is Chidaoba (Georgian wrestling)?
Chidaoba is an ancient Georgian martial art that combines wrestling with music, dance and special garments, and it has been on the UNESCO intangible heritage list since 2018.