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Tbilisi's Jvari's Mama's Church: A Testament to Georgian Faith

Discover Tbilisi's Jvari's Mama's Church: A historic Orthodox gem in Old Tbilisi, reflecting centuries of Georgian faith and cultural heritage.

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Jvari's Mama's Church, nestled in Tbilisi's Old Town, is a historic Orthodox church reflecting centuries of Georgian faith and resilience. Originally built in the 5th century, it has been rebuilt and restored over the centuries, standing as a testament to the city's enduring spirit.

A brief summary to Tbilisi's Jvari's Mama's Church

  • Monday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the church to respect its sanctity.
  • Visit during weekdays for a less crowded and more intimate experience.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate frescoes and architectural details inside the church.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Jvari's Mama's Church is located in the Old Town of Tbilisi and is easily accessible by foot from many central locations. From Freedom Square, walk north along Kote Afkhazi Street (formerly Leselidze Street) for approximately 15 minutes. The church is located at number 41. As you walk, you'll pass numerous shops, cafes, and other historical landmarks. The walk is moderately uphill. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest metro stations to Jvari's Mama's Church are Liberty Square and Avlabari, both about a 15-minute walk away. From either station, you can take a local bus to a stop closer to the church. Bus fares are 1 GEL per ride, and you can purchase a ticket at the ticket machine in the bus or pay using a MetroMoney card. The card itself costs 2 GEL and can be purchased at any metro station. Alternatively, you can use a contactless payment method, like a bank card, for approximately 1.50 GEL per trip. After the first payment, the user can travel for free in any direction for up to 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tbilisi and can be hailed on the street or booked through apps like Bolt and Yandex. A short taxi ride from Freedom Square to Jvari's Mama's Church typically costs between 3.3 GEL (base fare) and 5-10 GEL, depending on the distance and traffic. Always ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Tbilisi's Jvari's Mama's Church

Jvari's Mama's Church, also known as the Church of the Father of the Cross, is a significant religious landmark in Tbilisi, located at 41 Kote Afkhazi Street in the heart of Old Tbilisi. The church's history dates back to the second half of the 5th century when King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the founder of Tbilisi, is said to have built a church on this site, mirroring the architecture of the Lord's tomb on Golgotha. According to legend, King Vakhtang I Gorgasali pointed to the location for the construction of Tbilisi. Another legend claims that Saint Nino, who is associated with the Christianization of Georgia, conducted her activities here. Over the centuries, Jvari's Mama's Church has undergone numerous transformations. It was destroyed in the 14th century by Timur's army and rebuilt in the 16th century. In the 19th century, Abbot Benedict, an episcopate of Bethlehem in Palestine, revitalized the church. During the Soviet era, the church was repurposed as a book warehouse, and its frescoes were painted over. In 1983, a reconstruction project removed adjacent residences and taverns, and the church reopened in 1989. Today, visitors can explore this historical site and admire its architecture, modest decorations, and brick-carved crosses. The interior features vibrant murals, and the church's compact main hall creates a cozy atmosphere. Jvari's Mama's Church is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Georgia's rich religious and cultural heritage.

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