Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba)
Elia Hill, Tbilisi, GA
The tallest church in Tbilisi, the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba) is an unmissable feature of the Tbilisi skyline: its golden dome rises out from Elia Hill and is visible from almost any point in the city. The stunning structure is part of a complex that includes a monastery, theology school, and nine chapels (including five underground).
The Basics
The massive church was built between 1995 and 2004 to commemorate 1,500 years of the Georgian Orthodox Church and 2,000 years since the birth of Jesus. The modern concrete, brick, granite, and marble structure rises 275 feet (84 meters) to the top of the cross above its golden central dome. The interior features beautiful frescoes, as well several icons and a large image of the Holy Virgin that can be seen at the entrance
Holy Trinity Cathedral is a typical stop on Tbilisi sightseeing tours, by foot or by vehicle, which offer a great way of understanding its place in the history of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
Modest dress is required to enter the church—shoulders and knees should be covered and women should cover their hair.
There is a ramp to the church that is suitable for wheelchair users.
Admission is free of charge.
How to Get There
Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral is located on Ellia Hill above the left bank of the Mtkvari in the historic neighbourhood of Avlabari. It is a 15-minute walk from the Avlabari Metro Station and within walking distance of many major hotels.
When to Get There
The church welcomes visitors every day. One of the best times to view the exterior is in the early evening as the sun sets in the surrounding hills.
Bridge of Peace
A 25-minute walk from the Holy Trinity Cathedral (15 minutes from Avlabari Metro Station), the bow-shaped Bridge of Peace is one of Tbilisi’s most striking contemporary sights. This glass-and-steel pedestrian bridge is covered with LED light fixtures, which illuminate it from 90 minutes before sunset until 90 minutes after sunrise.
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