Anchiskhati Basilica

A simple, peaceful and charming cathedral. It has old world charm so do go in and reflect for a moment. It's not been renovated so it had a special charm. Dress code is followed. Wrap around skirts and stoles are available for women. Entrance is free

This is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, a place of great historical importance, with its original construction dating back to the 6th century. The architecture is that of a classic three-nave basilica. The exterior is made of stone and has a rustic and simple appearance, very different from the newer cathedrals. Being so old, it has a special charm. It's a worthwhile visit, even if just to admire the facade and its history. Women must cover their heads to enter. Admission is free.

The Anchiskhati Basilica of St Mary is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, dating back to the 6th century. According to the old Georgian annals, the church was built by the King Dachi of Iberia, who had made Tbilisi his capital. Originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was renamed Anchiskhati in 1675 when the treasured icon of the Savior created by the twelfth-century goldsmith Beka Opizari at the Ancha monastery in Klarjeti (in what is now part of northeast Turkey) was moved to Tbilisi to preserve it from an Ottoman invasion. The basilica was damaged and rebuilt on several occasions from the 15th through 17th centuries due to wars between Georgia and the Persians and Turks. It was of course closed during Soviet period and turned into a museum, and then into an art studio. It wasn’t until the independence in 1991 that the basilica reverted to religious use.

The Anchiskhati Church or the Church of the Virgin Mary is located in the northern part of the Old City and is considered the oldest temple in Tbilisi and the second oldest one in Georgia. The temple got his name in the 17th century, after the icon of the Savior was transferred to the church from the Anchii Cathedral. The church was built in the VI century by the order of the king of Iberia Dachi Ujarmeli, who made Tbilisi the capital of Georgia. Initially, the basilica was built of yellow tuff, but in 1958 the church was restored with an ordinary brick. The church has three entries and only one door is open. The temple is always dark and the atmosphere is mysterious. The walls are covered with frescoes and paintings. The temple was repeatedly destroyed by the Turks and Persians and every time it was restored. In the XVII century, the church was altered, a vault was added to the church, a bell tower and a dome was built. The paintings of the church belong to the XIX century. In the Soviet period, almost all the churches were either closed down or converted to prisons. The Anchiskhati church was converted into a museum of handicrafts. Every year on September 21, the church celebrates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin.

“Another hidden gem on the Ioane Shavteli Street” ✨ When walking through this amazing street with artworks everywhere, it is easy to miss this beautiful 6th century church. To get to the church, you need to enter the big stone gate which is located at the street level and walk down the stairs. Important to note, all churches in Georgia expect you to wear the appropriate attire. Long pants, shoulders covered and for the ladies their hair covered. Many churches provide free choir robes you can use, but not all! — Genuine Gems Overview — ⭐ Rating: 5/5 💰 Price Paid: Free 💎 A Genuine Gem?

This ancient historical church is a breathtakingly beautiful landmark, both inside and out. The exterior offers plenty of benches for quiet contemplation and reflection. The surrounding area is bustling with various stores, including souvenir shops, coffeehouses, and gift stores. Please note that there are some restrictions to be aware of when visiting the church: no photography is allowed inside, pets are not permitted, and smoking is also prohibited. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere was tolerable and well worth the visit.

The Anchiskhati Basilica of St. Mary is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, Georgia. It belongs to the Georgian Orthodox Church and dates from the 6th Century. We reached just in time for service and we all listened to the prayer, offered a candle and left. Photography isn't allowed inside, was told because of the fresco on the wall and to preserve it.

Look like a very ancient church and there should not be any photography inside. But the interior is where it is captivating. With very old scripts, painting, tools etc kept in their original state without refurbishment like many other churches. There are many retail stall outside selling souvenir. Recommended!