Anchiskhati Basilica

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.

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.

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 view from outside of The Anchiskhati Basilica of St Mary, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, Georgia. It belongs to the Georgian Orthodox Church and dates from the sixth century. Below you can see the point where 2 rivers merge and join. I think that entrance is free here but you need to pay for parking.

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!

The oldest church in Tbilisi. For its historical significance alone it’s worth dropping by. At the time I visited there was a funeral happening so we could not enter but the outside and surrounding grounds itself are quite impressive and beautiful. You can clearly see the parts of the structure that was rebuilt over time with the difference in bricks and stones. I’ve walked by both in the day and night. At night it’s lit up.

This ancient church holds centuries of stories within its weathered stones. The intricate carvings and faded frescoes whisper of generations past. A sense of peace pervades the hallowed halls, inviting quiet contemplation. Sunlight filters through the stained glass, illuminating the sacred space. One can almost feel the weight of history within these venerable walls.

Very very beautiful old church. It is so old that you can see the paintings on the ceiling fading and beginning to peel. It smells very nice too, the smell of incense and extinguished candles. There are many artefacts on the walls and around the church, with many places you can put candles. Also this isn’t said on any of the notices outside but the people inside the church would recommend the women to wear a scarf/ hood over their heads. When we were in the church there were also people reading the Bible and singing. The atmosphere was beautiful and ethereal. This is a must-visit church, a standing landmark from a long time ago. The priest was also so kind to us.