Church of St. John the Theologian

The Church of St. John the Theologian in Tbilisi stands as one of the most prominent Russian Orthodox religious institutions in the city. Services in this historic church are conducted in both Russian and Georgian, with the principal feast days celebrated on May 21 and December 9 in honor of the namesake of the church — the Holy Apostle John the Theologian.

Historical records and accounts from various historians suggest that long before the current structure was erected, there was an ancient church on this very site, which also housed a monastery dedicated to St. John. This original religious complex is believed to have existed around the 7th century AD. The current church, however, was constructed between 1898 and 1901 — during the turn of the 20th century — by decree of Prince Grigory Sergeyevich Golitsyn, who was at the time the imperial governor of the Caucasus. The surrounding district was also developed under his administration, integrating the church as a central landmark of the neighborhood.

In the early 2000s, the Russian-speaking parishioners of the Church of St. John the Theologian petitioned the Society of King Erekle II, seeking the restoration of Church Slavonic services within the church. Over 300 individuals signed this appeal, which was subsequently forwarded to the Georgian Patriarchate for consideration. Around the same time, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, paid an official visit to the church to introduce the faithful to their newly appointed priest — Father Adam. During his visit, the Patriarch made a solemn promise not only to resume liturgies in the Russian language but also to preserve the church’s authentic Russian architectural and spiritual character, both inside and out. This promise was honored, and today, services at the Church of St. John the Theologian — part of the Russian Orthodox Church — are held in both Russian and Georgian.

The Church of St. John the Theologian is a striking example of traditional Russian ecclesiastical architecture, distinguished by features typical of Orthodox religious structures. Its whitewashed brick facades evoke the style of churches in Suzdal, reflecting a clean and serene elegance. The church’s silver onion domes crown the building with a sense of celestial grace, shimmering against the Georgian sky. Entrances are positioned on both the western and eastern walls, each side flanked by a pair of doors, emphasizing balance and symmetry.

Inside, the church is painted in a harmonious palette of white and sky blue. The white walls are adorned with delicate murals, while the domes above display ethereal blue hues embellished with wooden ornamental motifs. This thoughtful design creates an atmosphere that is modest yet luminous, spiritual yet inviting. At the heart of the sanctuary is a lavish, golden iconostasis on the central altar, standing in splendid contrast to the more subdued tones of the walls. Illuminated by the flicker of countless candles, it serves as the visual and spiritual centerpiece of the interior.

Situated in the very heart of Tbilisi, the Church of St. John the Theologian is surrounded by a constellation of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors to the church often also explore the nearby Monastery of St. Andrew the First-Called — colloquially known as the Blue Monastery, named for the vivid color of its facades.

Just a short walk away is the historic income house of merchant Alexander Melik-Azaryants — a grand architectural masterpiece that has become one of the symbols of central Tbilisi. This structure is both a monument of cultural heritage and a showcase of local design. Close by, visitors will also find the monument to Shota Rustaveli, the revered 12th–13th century Georgian poet, author of the national epic The Knight in the Panther’s Skin. This statue stands as a tribute to Georgia’s literary legacy and cultural pride.

The Church of St. John the Theologian is located in the very center of Georgia’s capital, in the Vera district of Tbilisi. It sits at the end of Leo Kiacheli Street, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors exploring the city’s historic and spiritual heart.