Exploring Georgia's Magnificent Churches

When I decided to travel to Georgia, I had no idea I was about to embark on a journey filled with breathtaking architecture, spirituality and rich history.

With very little expectation, I arrived in Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia. And as fate would have it, my stay was near the city's most magnificent churches within walking distance. The moment I saw it, I was like, WOW!! The craftsmanship of the church took my breath away.

In this story, I'll share the photos I captured and a pinch of the fascinating history behind each one.

Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi | Sits in the centre of the city

History

Georgia has a vast historical heritage, starting in the 4th century BC. The country tells a story of eras and invaders, with ancient churches, fortresses and ruins.

It is believed that Christianity was first preached in Georgia in the 1st century, but it was in the early 4th century that Christianity significantly influenced Georgian society. St Nino, a missionary from Cappadocia, is credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia.

St Nino's journey to Georgia is a famous legend among Georgians. According to tradition, she travelled across the country, performing miracles and spreading Christianity. But the pivotal moment came when the royal family adopted the conversion. Let me share a fascinating story that I heard from a Georgian.

According to the legend, the king’s conversion was influenced by a miraculous event that happened during his hunting expedition (a lot of big changes took place in Georgian history during hunting; another interesting fact that I got to know). During hunting in the woods near his capital, Mtskheta, the darkness fell upon the land, and the king was totally blinded. Mirian started praying to the Pagan gods for help, but nothing happened. In desperation, he turned to the Christian god, and suddenly, the light returned. Profoundly moved, King Mirian declared Christianity as the state religion.

This story can make you giggle a bit, but Georgians love legends and dramas, so it is what it is.

Holy Trinity Cathedral, Tbilisi

Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi | It started raining on our way back; lucky us.

The above image is of the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, one of the world's largest area-wise Eastern Orthodox church buildings. This one is relatively new and was built between 1995 and 2004. I was lucky to capture this photo as it was already too cloudy, and it started raining as soon as I left the church campus.

Near Tbilisi, you can also visit the old capital city, Mtskheta, which is the home of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Mtskheta

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Mtskheta | 11th-Century Eastern Orthodox Cathedral

Svetitskholvei is undoubtedly the holiest of all of Georgia's churches. It was the site of King Mirian's conversion to Christianity. Also, Svetitskhoveli is notable in Georgian architecture for being the first structure to have a dome and stepped front facade. For these reasons, Svetitskhoveli and the surrounding city of Mtskheta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Another beautiful and one of the most important churches I visited was Gargeti Trinity Church in the Kazbegi region of Georgia.

Gargeti Trinity Church, Stepantsminda

Gargeti Trinity Church, Stepantsminda | 14th-Century Cathedral

Gargeti Trinity Church is located at an impressive elevation of 2,170 metres. You might wonder why anyone would build a church at such a height. There's a perfect reason behind it. Over the centuries, Georgia has faced numerous invasions, and this church played an important role in protecting the country's history and religion. Its elevation and remote location made it the perfect place to store valuables from other churches when they were under threat. Interesting, right?

Also, the views are breathtaking, as the church is situated on the bank of the river from one side and Mount Kazbeg in the other—a must-visit place for anyone visiting Georgia.

Bagrati Cathedral, Kutaisi

Bagrati Cathedral, Kutaisi | Rebuilt Orthodox 11th-Century Cathedral

Bagrati Cathedral is in the city of Kutaisi and is considered one of the four Great Cathedrals (cathedrals built in the 10th and 11th centuries) of the Georgia Orthodox world. The Cathedral has suffered much heavy damage over centuries and, hence, many reconstructions.

The History of the Reconstruction of Bagrati Cathedral from 1900 to 1994

Due to these reconstructions, UNESCO has put a church on the endangered World Heritage Sites and removed it from the World Heritage Sites list.

As I travelled across Georgia, from the streets of Tbilisi to the heights of Stepantsminda, each church I visited told a unique story. These sacred structures are not just places of worship but also proof of Georgia's rich cultural history.

Through my lens (Each photograph was shot on my new Sony Alpha ILCE-6700), I hope to have captured not just the architecture but also the spirit and soul of Georgia's churches. I hope you have enjoyed the story.

I encourage you to visit Georgia and experience these magnificent churches for yourself. The blend of ancient history and living tradition makes it a truly unique destination. As you walk through these sacred sites, may you be as inspired and amazed as I was. Thank you for joining me on this photographic journey through the spiritual heart of Georgia.

Ananuri Fortress Complex: A Historic Stronghold Fortifying Two Cathedrals

Happy travelling!

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Till then, Sayonara! I wish you the best in your travel journey.

I am a software engineer who enjoys travelling and writing — About Me.