Tsminda Sameba Cathedral

The Tsminda Sameba Cathedral—also known as the Holy Trinity Cathedral—is situated in the historic Avlabari district of Tbilisi. Revered as the principal place of worship for the Georgian Orthodox Church, it stands as one of the most striking landmarks on the left bank of the Kura River. Perched atop the hill of Saint Elijah, the cathedral is visible from many vantage points across the capital. At night, it is illuminated by powerful floodlights, lending the structure an awe-inspiring, solemn grandeur.

Despite its monumental appearance, the Holy Trinity Cathedral has a relatively recent history. Originally, its inauguration was intended to coincide with major ecclesiastical celebrations. However, due to the political upheavals surrounding Georgia’s departure from the Soviet Union, construction was indefinitely delayed. Eventually, the plans for the grand edifice were approved by the Patriarch himself, and the chosen architect was Archil Mindiashvili.

Construction began in the autumn of 1995, with the foundational phase taking shape thanks largely to donations from the faithful. The building process, however, was not without controversy. A significant dispute arose over the desecration of the historic Armenian Khojivank Cemetery, which was located on the chosen construction site. Nevertheless, by December 2002, while the cathedral was still unfinished, it hosted its first religious service. Two years later, it was officially opened to the public in its entirety. The cathedral was consecrated nine years after the groundbreaking, and the seat of the Georgian Church was moved here from the historic Sioni Cathedral.

Architecturally, Tsminda Sameba adheres to the classical style of traditional Georgian Orthodox design. The cathedral ranks as the third tallest Eastern Orthodox church in the world. Its above-ground height exceeds 100 meters, while its subterranean level extends 40 meters below the surface. The dome is crowned by a magnificent cross that alone rises 7.5 meters high.

The total area of the Tsminda Sameba Cathedral exceeds 5,000 square meters. In the early stages of construction, sacred soil from Jerusalem and stones from the Jordan River were ceremoniously embedded into the foundation. Within the cathedral, a number of priceless religious relics are enshrined. Among the most revered is a cross that once stood atop the ancient Georgian capital of Mtskheta at the site of the current Jvari Monastery. Today, it rests in a golden sarcophagus within the cathedral walls.

The icons housed within the cathedral are of great cultural and historical significance. One of the most important is “The Hope of Georgia,” which depicts the faces of 432 saints of the nation. Its creation cost more than $20 million, with 30 kilograms of gold and numerous large gemstones used to craft its elaborate and dazzling surface.

The lower level of the cathedral is accessible via two separate entrances—one from within the main structure and another directly from the street. Of special interest to worshippers are the stone sarcophagi prepared for the remains of Kings Vakhtang VI and Teimuraz II, who are currently interred in Russia.

On the cathedral grounds, a modest bell tower and nine small chapels have been constructed. These stand as separate structures, with several located partially or entirely underground. The grounds also feature a beautifully landscaped park, complete with alleys and manicured lawns, offering a breathtaking panorama of Tbilisi’s Old Town. The site is home to the official residence of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II and houses a theological seminary. A hotel and a café also welcome visitors, where guests can enjoy authentic “Lagidze Waters,” a beloved Georgian soft drink.

Due to its elevated position, the Holy Trinity Cathedral is visible from both banks of the Kura River. The Avlabari district, a popular destination for tourists, serves as a useful landmark. Public transport is readily available, with bus stops and a nearby metro station offering convenient access. The cathedral can also be reached by car.

As one of Tbilisi’s foremost attractions, the cathedral draws significant crowds. To enjoy a more peaceful visit, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning or after 5:00 p.m., when guided tour groups are fewer.

The nearest metro station, “Avlabari,” lies about 15 minutes on foot from the cathedral and is part of the red line of the Tbilisi Metro. Upon exiting the station, head north along Lado Meskhishvili Street to reach the park entrance.

A bus stop bearing the same name as the complex—“Sameba Cathedral”—is located directly in front of the site, serviced by routes No. 91 and 122. From there, it is no more than a five-minute walk to the cathedral gates.