Church of Saint Karapet

The Church of Saint Karapet is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Tbilisi, Georgia. Originally constructed as an Armenian Apostolic church, it has belonged to the Georgian Orthodox Church since 1995. Perched on the steep slope of a gorge between the districts of Chugureti and Avlabari, the church is now open to all visitors who wish to step into its serene atmosphere.

While the exact date of its foundation remains unknown, historical analysis points to the early 18th century as the period when the first documented mentions of the church appeared. Compared to other cathedrals of the time, which were adorned with grand ornamentation and treasured relics, the Church of Saint Karapet is relatively modest in design and does not house any relics of particular value. Yet, this simplicity has never diminished its spiritual magnetism. Pilgrims and travelers alike are drawn to its quiet beauty and sacred ambiance.

Inside the sanctuary, visitors will find several exquisite 19th-century icons and finely carved stone sculptures. The interior walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes, imbuing the space with artistic and devotional depth. The church’s main entrance is framed by an arch crowned with pointed towers, and several gray onion domes rise from the roof, adding to the structure’s distinctive silhouette.

Next to the church lies a cozy little garden square, offering a peaceful resting place. It’s the perfect spot for visitors to catch their breath before continuing their journey through the winding streets of the Old City.

The church’s origins remain shrouded in mystery, with conflicting historical accounts casting doubt on its founding date. According to the Armenian historian Nerses Ashtaraketsi, the sanctuary was established in 1705 by Baghdasar Isaac Kamazov and later restored by the local community. However, another version claims the church was originally constructed in 1400 by a man named Kazazov, with restoration work occurring in 1790. Some sources suggest Kazazov and Kamazov may have been the same individual, yet the wide disparity in dates makes it difficult to confirm this theory.

A curious piece of evidence complicates the story further. Inscribed on the drum of the dome at Bethlehem Church is a stone bearing a dedication that attributes the construction of the Church of Saint Karapet to Amir Agha and his wife Beki Khatun in the year 1664. Originally, this inscription was part of the Church of Saint Karapet itself. Why and how it was relocated to the dome of the Bethlehem Church remains unknown. Some historians speculate that the original church may have been destroyed in the early 18th century, prompting the transfer of the inscribed khachkar (Armenian cross-stone) either by the original patrons or their descendants.

Still, even this theory is not definitive. Other historical references speak of a church named after Saint Karapet within the Kamoyants family estate and of a separate Saint Karapet sanctuary in Saakashen. These varying accounts make it impossible to draw a conclusive timeline. As a result, the question of the church’s true origin remains open. Modern architectural historians continue their search for reliable evidence that might one day shed light on this enduring enigma.

During the Soviet era, the church ceased its religious functions and remained inactive.

The building itself is compact in size—approximately 19 by 13 meters. Its exterior is clad in finely hewn stone, forming a vaulted structure supported by four columns. Once adorned with ornate doors reflecting the rich traditions of Armenian decorative art, the church lost these features in 1995. That same year, the bell tower was also demolished. Following its transfer to the Georgian Orthodox Church, the building was re-consecrated and continues to function under its new designation.

Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant and multicultural capital, is home to a remarkable array of religious monuments. The city reflects a mosaic of ethnicities and faiths—while ethnic Georgians form the majority, large communities of Armenians, Turks, Ukrainians, Azerbaijanis, Russians, Jews, and other groups also call Tbilisi home. As a result, the city hosts numerous Georgian and Armenian Christian churches, synagogues, Orthodox temples, and mosques.

The peoples of the Caucasus, including the Georgians, were among the earliest nations to adopt Christianity as their state religion. This momentous conversion took place as early as 326 AD. Ancient Armenia, notably, holds the distinction of being the first state in the world to recognize Christianity as its official religion. In Georgia, the revered protector of the nation is the Holy Virgin Mary.

Today, Georgia boasts an abundance of Christian sacred sites. More than 350 churches across the country are dedicated to Saint George, the most venerated saint in Georgian Orthodoxy. These churches have historically served not only as spiritual centers but also as cultural strongholds and places of refuge. During periods of foreign invasion—particularly by Muslim forces—Christian temples often offered shelter and protection for the local population.

This dual role has made Georgia’s churches truly unique in the global context. Their architectural style, historical resilience, and religious significance set them apart as treasures of both faith and heritage.

The nearest metro station is Avlabari. From there, ascend Nikoloz Baratashvili Rise, then turn right and continue walking until you reach the church.

Opening Hours:
Daily, from 09:00 to 19:00

Admission:
Free of charge

Location:
Church of Saint Karapet, E. Akhvlediani Street, Old Tbilisi District, Tbilisi, Georgia