The Majestic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: A Jewel of Mtskheta
Discover the architectural wonder of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and beauty.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning example of Georgian architecture and a vital cultural landmark in Mtskheta. This Eastern Orthodox cathedral is renowned for its historical significance, intricate design, and breathtaking frescoes, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring Georgia's rich heritage.
A brief summary to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
- RPRC+V9W, Narekvavi-Mtskheta-Railway Station, Mtskheta, GE
- Visit website
- 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-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Dress modestly when entering the cathedral as it is an active place of worship.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical and architectural significance of the site.
- Don't forget to explore the surrounding area, including the charming streets of Mtskheta.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Tbilisi, make your way to the Didube Metro Station. You can take Metro Line 1 (the Red Line) to Didube. Once you arrive at Didube, transfer to the Marshrutka (minibus) station located adjacent to the metro station. Look for marshrutkas heading to Mtskheta (usually labeled on the front). The ride to Mtskheta will take about 30 minutes. Once in Mtskheta, get off at the main square near the Mtskheta Church. From there, you can walk to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which is approximately a 10-minute walk. Just follow the signs towards the Cathedral, which is a prominent landmark in the area.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from Tbilisi to Mtskheta. Use a ride-hailing app like Bolt or Yandex Taxi, or catch a local taxi. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic. Once you arrive at Mtskheta, the taxi can drop you off near the main square where Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is located. The Cathedral is a short walk from the square.
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Walking
If you are near the center of Tbilisi, you can also choose to walk to a nearby bus station that offers services to Mtskheta. Head towards the Mtkvari River and follow it upstream to find the bus stations. Look for buses headed to Mtskheta. The walk to the bus station should take around 20-30 minutes. Once you are on the bus and have arrived in Mtskheta, follow the directions to the main square and from there walk to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which is roughly a 10-minute walk.
Discover more about Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
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