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St. Virgin Mary Cathedral of Dmanisi: A Journey Through Time

Explore the medieval architecture and historical significance of St. Virgin Mary Cathedral, nestled in the ancient town of Dmanisi, Georgia.

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The St. Virgin Mary Cathedral of Dmanisi, also known as Dmanisi Sioni, is a significant early medieval basilica at the heart of the Dmanisi historic site in Georgia. Perched at the confluence of the Mashavera and Pinezauri rivers, this cathedral showcases a blend of architectural styles and rich historical layers, dating back to the 6th century.

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 as the site involves walking on uneven terrain and exploring historical ruins.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities for purchasing refreshments near the cathedral.
  • Visit during the spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Dmanisi Museum-Reserve to fully appreciate the area's historical context.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tbilisi, take a minibus to Dmanisi from Ortachala bus station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From the Dmanisi bus terminal, the cathedral is a short taxi ride away. Minibus fare is approximately 5 GEL. A taxi from the Dmanisi bus terminal to the cathedral should cost around 5-10 GEL.

  • Car

    From Tbilisi, drive southwest towards Dmanisi. The journey is approximately 98 km and takes around 1.5 hours. Follow the main road to Dmanisi and then follow signs to Patara Dmanisi village. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for the final stretch to the cathedral. Parking is available near the site. Fuel costs for the round trip from Tbilisi will be approximately 30-40 GEL. Parking is free.

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Discover more about St. Virgin Mary cathedral of Dmanisi

The St. Virgin Mary Cathedral of Dmanisi, or Dmanisi Sioni, is located within the ancient ruined town of Dmanisi in Georgia's Kvemo Kartli region. This three-aisled basilica stands as a testament to the region's enduring historical and religious importance. Originally believed to have been constructed in the 6th-7th centuries, recent studies suggest the current structure dates back to the 9th century, built upon the site of an older church. The cathedral's design features a central nave that retains its original form, while the side parts have undergone significant modifications throughout history. A richly decorated door was added to the western side of the temple, enhancing its architectural appeal. The interior of the cathedral once boasted extensive frescoes, with fragments still visible today. These remnants, dating back to the 13th-14th centuries, showcase the monumentality and exquisite style of painting that characterized the era. The cathedral also served as the seat of the Dmanisi diocese until around 1750 and was reinstated in 2003. Historical accounts suggest that King Vakhtang III of Georgia was buried within the temple, though his tomb has not been found. Surrounding the cathedral, visitors can explore the Dmanisi Museum-Reserve, which contains archaeological layers from the Late Bronze Age and Early Paleolithic periods. The area has revealed some of the oldest hominid fossils outside of Africa, dating back 1.8 million years, solidifying Dmanisi's place in the history of human evolution.

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