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Sioni Cathedral: Tbilisi's Enduring Symbol

Discover Tbilisi's spiritual heart at the Sioni Cathedral, a historic landmark with stunning architecture and sacred relics.

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The Sioni Cathedral of the Dormition, located in Tbilisi's Old Town, is a Georgian Orthodox cathedral with a rich history dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. Named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem, it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, serving as a spiritual sanctuary and a symbol of Georgian resilience.

A brief summary to Zion Cathedral of the Dormition of Tbilisi

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the cathedral; covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
  • Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Take time to admire the intricate frescoes and the Grapevine Cross, significant artifacts in Georgian religious history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Freedom Square, walk north on Rustaveli Avenue. Turn left onto Gudiashvili Street, continue to Leselidze Street, and then walk towards the Kura River. Cross the bridge and walk along the riverbank to Sioni Street; the cathedral will be on your right. This walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Tbilisi Metro to Liberty Square station. From there, it's a 15-minute walk to the cathedral. Alternatively, several buses stop near Sioni Street; check the Tbilisi Transport website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride on the metro or bus costs 1 GEL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Tbilisi. Use a ride-hailing app or flag one down on the street. A short taxi ride from Freedom Square to Sioni Cathedral typically costs between 3.3 GEL and 9.3 GEL, depending on the distance and traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Zion Cathedral of the Dormition of Tbilisi

The Sioni Cathedral of the Dormition stands as a testament to Tbilisi's enduring spirit, its history woven into the fabric of the city itself. Originally constructed in the 6th and 7th centuries, the cathedral has been repeatedly ravaged by invaders and natural disasters, only to rise again, each time bearing the marks of its past. The current structure largely reflects a 13th-century design, though with significant modifications from the 17th to 19th centuries. Named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem, the cathedral holds a place of deep significance in Georgian Orthodox tradition. Until the completion of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in 2004, it served as the main Georgian Orthodox Cathedral and the seat of the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. Inside, visitors can admire the venerated Grapevine Cross, said to be forged by Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. The cathedral's walls showcase frescoes, some dating back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into the evolution of Georgian religious art. The cathedral's architecture exemplifies medieval Georgian church design, featuring an inscribed cross-in-square layout and a dome supported by the altar wall and pillars. Two bell towers, one dating back to the 15th century and the other showcasing Russian Neoclassical style from the early 19th century, stand as prominent features of the cathedral complex. The yellow tuff stone used in its construction adds a warm hue to the exterior. More than just a religious site, the Sioni Cathedral has been a stage for pivotal historical events. In 1802, within its walls, the Russian Imperial manifesto declaring the annexation of Georgia was proclaimed. Today, the cathedral continues to be a vibrant center of worship and a powerful symbol of Georgian identity, drawing visitors from around the world.

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