Tsminda Sameba, the Holy Trinity Cathedral, is the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church and the great landmark of modern Tbilisi. It was commissioned by Patriarch Ilia II to mark two thousand years of Christianity and fifteen hundred years of the Georgian church, built between 1996 and 2004 with donations from Georgians, and designed by the architect Archil Mindiashvili in a grand version of the traditional Georgian cross-domed style. It rises 86.1 metres to the top of its golden cross and covers more than 5,000 square metres, with nine chapels above and below ground, and it is built of Georgian stone with marble and granite from as far away as Italy, Egypt, Greece, China and India. The cathedral sits in landscaped grounds on Elia Hill in the Avlabari district, across the river from the old town, with fountains, bell tower and views back over the city. Inside, the soaring space glows with icons and candles, and services with Georgian polyphonic chant are deeply moving.
How to visit: the cathedral is free to enter and open daily from early morning into the evening, though parts may be closed during major services. It is a short walk uphill from Avlabari metro station, or about twenty minutes on foot from the old town across the Metekhi bridge. Taxis can drop you at the gates.
What to expect: this is a working cathedral, so dress code is strict. Men should wear long trousers and women should cover their hair and wear a skirt below the knee; wraps and scarves are usually available at the entrance. Photography inside may be restricted, and you should not stand with your back to the altar or talk loudly during services. The grounds are pleasant for a stroll, with views of Narikala across the valley. Weekend mornings bring the largest services, when the chanting is at its best.
Making the most of it: come in the late afternoon or early evening, when the stone glows in the low sun and the lit-up cathedral looks magnificent from below. Combine it with Metekhi Church on its cliff above the river and the Rike Park cable car for an easy loop on the left bank.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided visit to the cathedral interior and its hilltop grounds, with optional attendance at a service.
Best time
Late afternoon for warm light, or a weekend morning to hear the polyphonic chant at a service.
How long
About an hour including the grounds.
Tips
Dress modestly, with long trousers for men and a head covering and skirt for women, and keep quiet inside.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone interested in Georgian faith, architecture and modern Tbilisi.
- Families
- Free, spacious grounds with fountains make it an easy stop with children.
- Couples
- The lit-up cathedral on its hill is lovely on an evening stroll.
- Pair with
- Metekhi Church and the Rike Park cable car on the same side of the river.
- Time needed
- An hour.
Good questions
Is Holy Trinity Cathedral free to visit?+
Yes, entry is free. Donations and candle purchases support the church.
How tall is Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi?+
It stands 86.1 metres high including its cross. It is one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world.
When was Sameba Cathedral built?+
Construction began in 1996 and was completed in 2004, funded by donations from Georgians. It marks two thousand years of Christianity and fifteen hundred years of the Georgian church.
What is the dress code for Sameba Cathedral?+
Men should wear long trousers, and women should cover their hair and wear a skirt below the knee. Wraps are usually available at the entrance.
How do I get to Holy Trinity Cathedral?+
It is a short uphill walk from Avlabari metro station, or about twenty minutes on foot from the old town over the Metekhi bridge. Taxis can drop you at the gates.
