Where is the Batumi Cathedral of the Mother of God and what is there to see?
A neo-Gothic basilica from the late 19th century in central Batumi.
Short answer
The Cathedral of the Mother of God stands at 51 Demetre Tavdadebuli Street in Batumi, in the Ajara region. It is a triple-nave neo-Gothic basilica on a tall foundation with two high bell towers on its eastern facade. The Zubalashvili brothers built it in 1897–1902 as a memorial to their mother.
Why
- The Zubalashvili brothers built the cathedral as a memorial to their mother and invited architects from Italy.
- It was originally a Catholic church, and in Soviet times it housed an archive and later a high-voltage laboratory.
- The building was given to the Orthodox Church in 1980 and consecrated by Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II on 16 May 1989.
- In 2011 the cathedral was granted cultural heritage monument status.
Details
The building has pentagonal projections on its western and eastern axes, and two tall bell towers stand on the eastern facade. Today it is a cathedral of the Eparchy of Batumi and Lazeti. Up to 5,000 locals were baptised after the consecration in 1989.
For other places in the city see What to see in Batumi and Where is Batumi. For the faith in the country, read What is the religion in Georgia.
Tip
Combine a visit to the cathedral with a walk past other places in central Batumi. The address is 51 Demetre Tavdadebuli Street.
What may differ
Access, hours and visiting rules may change, so check them locally or with local organisers before you go.
Common misconception
The cathedral in Batumi has always been Orthodox.
What actually happens
The building was erected in 1897–1902 as a Catholic church and became Orthodox after the 1980 handover and the 1989 consecration.
People also ask
- Where is the Batumi Cathedral of the Mother of God?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Check opening hours, access and visiting conditions locally.
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