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St. Virgin Mary Cathedral of Dmanisi: A Medieval Georgian Treasure

Discover the ancient beauty of St. Virgin Mary Cathedral in Dmanisi, a cultural and historical landmark nestled in the heart of Georgia's Kvemo Kartli region.

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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. Perched on a promontory, this cathedral features a unique architectural design and rich history, making it a significant 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

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Respect the sacred ambiance by maintaining silence and observing local customs.
  • Dress modestly when visiting to show respect for the sacred site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere within the Dmanisi historic site, the cathedral is easily accessible by foot. Follow the well-trodden paths towards the center of the site, where the prominent basilica stands. The walk offers views of the surrounding ruins and landscapes.

  • Taxi

    If arriving from Dmanisi or nearby villages like Vardisubani, a taxi is a convenient option. Taxis are readily available, and a short trip to the Dmanisi historic site should cost approximately 5-10 GEL. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Apps like Bolt and Yandex may also be used.

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Discover more about St. Virgin Mary cathedral of Dmanisi

The St. Virgin Mary Cathedral of Dmanisi, or Dmanisi Sioni, is a majestic monument of Georgian history and culture. Located within the Dmanisi historic site, a ruined medieval town in Georgia's Kvemo Kartli region, the cathedral stands on a promontory at the confluence of the Mashavera and Pinezauri rivers. The cathedral's history dates back to the 6th-7th centuries, although some specialists suggest it was built in the 9th century. Following a Georgian tradition, it is named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem. The cathedral served as the seat of the Dmanisi diocese until around 1750 and was reinstated in 2003. King Vakhtang III of Georgia was buried here in 1308, though his tomb is no longer present. The architecture of the Dmanisi Sioni is notable for its three-bay nave, a protruding apse, and a richly adorned narthex added in the 13th century. Described as a "three-church" basilica, the nave is separated from the aisles by solid walls. The interior walls once featured frescoes, with damaged 13th-14th-century depictions still visible in the altar apse. The narthex is adorned with ornamental stone carvings and faced with light green stone slabs. To the north of the church is a rectangular bell-tower, and nearby stands the small church of Saint Marina, rebuilt in 1702. The Dmanisi historic site, where the cathedral is located, was once a major commercial center in medieval Georgia. Today, it is an open-air museum, displaying ruins of the town, including fortifications, churches, and workshops. The site has also yielded hominin fossils dating back 1.85 to 1.75 million years ago, providing early evidence of humans outside Africa.

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