🕍 Top 16 shrines of Tbilisi: a route through religious sites of different faiths

🕍 Why is Tbilisi called a city of shrines and spiritual diversity?

Tbilisi is not only the capital of Georgia, but also one of the most multi-religious cities in the region. Here, Christian churches, Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, and Catholic cathedrals have coexisted side by side for centuries, creating a unique spiritual space that reflects the country's rich history and culture.

Ancient churches and modern religious buildings, hidden in cozy alleys or towering majestically on hills, are becoming an integral part of the city's atmosphere. They are not only open to believers but also invite everyone to experience the history, architecture, and traditions of various religions.

In Tbilisi, you can visit the Orthodox Tsminda Sameba Cathedral, the Armenian Church of Surb Gevorg, the Catholic Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, the Great Synagogue, and the Juma Mosque in one day, experiencing the special energy and respect for spiritual heritage in each location.

💡 It is this diversity that makes Tbilisi a unique city, where every religion has found its place and respect.

🌿 What religions are represented in Tbilisi and their iconic holy sites?

Tbilisi has historically been a city of open borders and cultural diversity. Today, representatives of different faiths coexist peacefully here, and spiritual symbols adorn every district of the capital.

⛪ Orthodoxy

• Holy Trinity Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba) — the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church.
  
• The Sioni Cathedral and the Anchiskhati Church are among the oldest Orthodox churches in the city.
  
• The Church of St. Nicholas and the Church of the Resurrection of the Virgin Mary (Ascension Church) are iconic Orthodox shrines with a rich history.
  

🕌 Islam

• The Juma Mosque is a unique place where representatives of various Islamic movements pray, located in the Old City near Abano-Tubani.
  

🕍 Judaism

• The Great Synagogue of Tbilisi is an important spiritual center of the Jewish community, operating since the 19th century.
  

✝️ Catholicism

• The Cathedral of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul is the main Catholic church in Tbilisi with exquisite architecture.
  

🕊️ Armenian Apostolic Church

• The Cathedral of Saint George (Surb Gevorg) and the Norashen Church are iconic Armenian churches that reflect an important part of the history of the Armenian diaspora in Tbilisi.
  

💡 All these shrines are not only places of worship, but also architectural pearls reflecting the spirit and history of the different peoples who left their mark on Tbilisi.

🗺️ How to plan a route through Tbilisi's holy places to see different faiths in one day?

Tbilisi is a compact city, and most of the holy sites are conveniently located for combining into a single, comprehensive itinerary. Even without personal transportation, you can comfortably explore the main religious sites, encompassing temples and holy sites of various faiths.

🚶 Morning: Center and Old Town

• You can start the day with the Sioni Cathedral and the Anchiskhati Church.
  
• Then head to the Abano-Tubani district, home to the Juma Mosque and the Great Synagogue.
  
• Nearby are the Armenian Cathedral of Surb Gevorg and the Norashen Church.
  

🕐 Day: Modern Temples and Pantheons

• Move to the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba).
  
• Afterwards, visit the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul and the Kashveti Church, conveniently located in the center.
  

🌇 Evening: quiet locations and panoramic views

• The route ends at the Mama Daviti Church on Mtatsminda.
  
• If you wish, you can reach the Bethany Church to experience a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  

💡 Tip: The route can be easily adapted to your schedule—you can split it into two days or choose locations based on your interests and religious beliefs.

🕯️ Which shrines in Tbilisi are especially revered by locals and pilgrims?

Although each shrine in Tbilisi has its own history and value, there are places that hold a special place in the hearts of city residents and pilgrims from all over Georgia and even from other countries.

⛪ Holy Trinity Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba)

The most majestic and iconic Orthodox church in Tbilisi and all of Georgia. People come here not only for the services but also to experience the special energy of the place.

⛪ Sioni Cathedral

One of the oldest active churches in the capital, housing a fragment of the cross of St. Nina. A place of pilgrimage and prayer.

🕍 Great Synagogue

The most important spiritual site for the Jewish community of Tbilisi, regularly visited not only by believers but also by tourists interested in the history of Jewry in Georgia.

🕌 Juma Mosque

Единственная действующая мечеть Тбилиси, где вместе молятся мусульмане разных течений. Очень почитаемая святыня и символ уважения к мусульманской традиции в столице.

✝️ Betania Monastery

A secluded temple in the outskirts of Tbilisi, visited by pilgrims seeking peace and spiritual tranquility.

💡 These shrines are not only architectural monuments, but also living symbols of faith, where each building preserves its own history and traditions.

📸Locations for inspiring photos and spiritual breaks – architecture, views, atmosphere

Tbilisi's holy places are not only religious monuments but also incredibly beautiful locations for inspiring photos, contemplation, and leisurely pauses during a busy city stroll.

⛪ Tsminda Sameba

The cathedral is visible from virtually anywhere in the city. It looks especially stunning at sunset or early morning, when the façade glows with golden hues.

🕍 Chronicles of Georgia (including Juma Mosque and Mama Daviti)

These locations are a true gift for lovers of unique shots with powerful architecture, city views, and a mystical atmosphere.

🕯️ Juma Mosque and the Abano-Tubani district

Colourful domes, ancient streets and Eastern architecture make this area one of the most photogenic parts of Tbilisi.

✝️ Anchiskhati and Sioni Cathedral

Ideal for those who appreciate ancient architecture and the atmosphere of old Tbilisi.

💡 Lifehack

The best shots are taken at sunrise or during the "golden hour" before sunset. To capture an atmosphere of silence and spiritual solitude, visit the churches on weekdays, when there are fewer tourists. Locations for inspiring photos and spiritual pauses – architecture, views, atmosphere

Tbilisi's holy places are not only religious monuments but also incredibly beautiful locations for inspiring photos, contemplation, and leisurely pauses during a busy city stroll.

⛪ Tsminda Sameba

The cathedral is visible from virtually anywhere in the city. It looks especially stunning at sunset or early morning, when the façade glows with golden hues.

🕍 Chronicles of Georgia (including Juma Mosque and Mama Daviti)

These locations are a true gift for lovers of unique shots with powerful architecture, city views, and a mystical atmosphere.

🕯️ Juma Mosque and the Abano-Tubani district

Colourful domes, ancient streets and Eastern architecture make this area one of the most photogenic parts of Tbilisi.

✝️ Anchiskhati and Sioni Cathedral

Ideal for those who appreciate ancient architecture and the atmosphere of old Tbilisi.

💡 Lifehack

The best shots are taken at sunrise or during the "golden hour" before sunset. To capture an atmosphere of silence and spiritual solitude, visit the churches on weekdays, when there are fewer tourists.

🙏 Useful tips for tourists, how to behave in Tbilisi's holy places and what's important to know

Visiting holy sites in Tbilisi requires respect, regardless of faith. To ensure your visit leaves only pleasant memories, follow these simple rules:

• Dress modestly and appropriately – bare shoulders, short skirts, and shorts are not permitted in churches, mosques, and synagogues.
  
• Remain quiet and do not disturb other believers – even if you come to take photos, remember that for many, this is a place of prayer and spiritual solitude.
  
• Take photographs with respect – check before taking a photo whether photography is permitted inside. In some churches, this is strictly prohibited.
  
• Follow the general rules of conduct – do not touch relics, do not enter altar areas, and do not place food or drink on sacred objects.
  
• Be polite and open to different traditions – respect for all faiths and hospitality are valued in Tbilisi.
  

💡 The main thing is to treat every holy place with respect and reverence, even if you are just a tourist.