Background

St. Virgin Mary Cathedral of Dmanisi: A Testament to Time

Explore the ancient Dmanisi Sioni Cathedral, a medieval basilica with historical frescoes, nestled in the heart of Georgia's rich cultural landscape.

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The St. Virgin Mary Cathedral of Dmanisi, also known as Dmanisi Sioni, is an early medieval basilica at the heart of the Dmanisi historic site in Georgia. With architecture dating back to the 6th-9th centuries, it stands as a significant religious and cultural landmark.

A brief summary to St. Virgin Mary cathedral of Dmanisi

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven terrain around the Dmanisi historic site.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there may not be shops or cafes immediately nearby.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Dmanisi Archaeological Site to see where the oldest human remains outside of Africa were discovered.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tbilisi, take a minibus (marshrutka) to Dmanisi. The cost is approximately 6 GEL. From Dmanisi, it is recommended to take a taxi or local transport to Patara-Dmanisi village, which is located close to the cathedral. From Patara-Dmanisi, the cathedral is about 600 meters north of the village and requires walking along a dirt road.

  • Car

    Drive to Patara-Dmanisi village. From there, follow the signs to the Dmanisi Sioni Cathedral. Note that the road leading directly to the temple is a dirt road, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. Parking is available near the site.

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Discover more about St. Virgin Mary cathedral of Dmanisi

Nestled within the ancient ruins of Dmanisi, the St. Virgin Mary Cathedral, or Dmanisi Sioni, is a captivating monument to Georgia's rich history and religious heritage. This early medieval basilica, dating back to the 6th-9th centuries, has witnessed centuries of cultural and political shifts. The cathedral is one of the five Zion churches in Georgia. Originally built as a three-aisled basilica, the cathedral has undergone several restorations, with only the central nave retaining its original architectural form. The interior once boasted vibrant frescoes, with fragments from the 13th and 14th centuries still visible in the altar apse. These remnants offer a glimpse into the exquisite artistry of the past. A narthex, added in the early 13th century, features detailed ornamental stone carvings. Throughout its history, the Dmanisi Sioni served as a crucial religious center, functioning as the seat of the Dmanisi diocese until its dissolution in 1750 and reinstatement in 2003. According to historical accounts, King Vakhtang III of Georgia was buried within the temple. The church and its grounds were later used as a necropolis by noble families. Today, the Dmanisi Sioni stands as a protected cultural monument, drawing visitors with its historical significance and architectural beauty.

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