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Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi: A Symbol of Georgian Revival

Discover Tbilisi's iconic Holy Trinity Cathedral: a symbol of Georgian faith, unity, and architectural grandeur, offering spiritual solace and panoramic views.

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The Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Sameba, is the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church, located in Tbilisi. Constructed between 1995 and 2004, it stands as a symbol of national and spiritual revival, blending traditional Georgian and Byzantine architectural styles. Its golden dome dominates the Tbilisi skyline, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.

A brief summary to Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

  • Monday 8 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-10 pm
  • Friday 8 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the cathedral, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.
  • Photography is allowed, but be respectful of ongoing services and worshippers.
  • Visit during the spring (April-June) or autumn (September-early November) for pleasant weather.
  • Attend a Saturday evening or Sunday morning service to experience the cathedral's spiritual atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Freedom Square, take the subway to Avlabari station. The metro ride takes approximately 13 minutes and costs 1 GEL. From Avlabari station, it's a short walk uphill to the cathedral. Alternatively, take bus number 305, 309, 314, 320 or 337. A single bus fare is 1 GEL. You can pay using a MetroMoney card, Travel Card, or a Georgian bank card.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Tbilisi and can be hailed on the street or booked through apps like Bolt or Yandex. A taxi ride from Freedom Square to the Holy Trinity Cathedral typically takes 3 minutes and costs between 2-3 GEL. Taxi fares within the city center should not exceed 10 GEL.

  • Walking

    From Old Tbilisi, it's a scenic walk to the cathedral. The walk from Freedom Square is approximately 1.8 km and takes about 23 minutes. Be aware that the road leading up to the cathedral is steep.

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Discover more about Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, commonly known as Sameba (Trinity), is a majestic landmark and the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church. Located on Elia Hill in the Avlabari district, it rises above the left bank of the Kura River, offering panoramic views of Tbilisi. Construction of the cathedral began in 1995 and was completed in 2004, commemorating the 1,500th anniversary of the autocephaly of the Georgian Orthodox Church and the 2,000th anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ. The project was envisioned as a symbol of national and spiritual rebirth after the fall of the Soviet Union. Designed by architect Archil Mindiashvili, Sameba represents a synthesis of traditional Georgian church architecture with Byzantine undertones. The cathedral complex includes the main church, a free-standing bell tower, the Patriarch's residence, a monastery, a theological seminary and academy, workshops, and resting places. The main cathedral is a cruciform structure with a dome resting on eight piers. The exterior blends traditional Georgian and Byzantine architectural styles, featuring elegant arches and intricate mosaics. The central dome, surrounded by four smaller ones, reaches a height of 87.1 meters, making it the third-tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the world. The interior is adorned with soaring ceilings, frescoes, mosaics depicting biblical scenes and Georgian saints, and stained glass windows. Sameba is not only an architectural marvel but also a vibrant spiritual center, hosting daily services, religious ceremonies, and choral performances. Visitors are welcome to witness these ceremonies or find solace in the quiet corners of the cathedral. The cathedral consists of nine chapels, with five located in a large underground compartment. The construction utilized natural materials, with marble tiles for the floor and mosaics for the altar.

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