Known as the symbol of new Georgia, the Holy Trinity Tsminda Sameba Cathedral is erected on the hill of the St. Ilya on the banks of Kura River. The church is 101 meters in height and is one of the tallest churches in the country. The complex is home to the cathedral, residence of the Patriarch and a monastery, school of theology and academy, and a hotel. The church is home to nine chapels including the chapels of the Archangels, the Twelve Apostles, Saint Nino, Saint George, John the Baptist, Saint Nicholas, and All Saints. Five chapels out of the nine are situated underground. A perfect combination of Georgian church architecture style and Byzantine architecture style is used in its construction. This orthodox cathedral is the 3rd tallest in the world and one of the largest religious buildings in the world in terms of area. The total area of the church is 3000 square meters.
Bounded by a large paved area and beautiful gardens, Sameba Cathedral is constructed in three levels, topped by a golden dome. There is a golden cross placed on the top of the dome. The church building is accessible through an impressive staircase. The Interior of the church is decorated with paintings, chandeliers, frescos, and silver artwork. The monastery, bell tower, gazebo, residence of the patriarch, several workshops, places for rest, and fountains are also there in the complex compound. There is a church museum in the lower tier. The entire building is finely adorned with icons, mosaics, and miniatures. The external walls of the church are ornamented with arches and fine carvings. This impressive building with its golden dome is really striking and definitely worth a visit.
From Tbilisi
A trip by the subway will take 8 minutes (5.4 kilometers) to reach the Avlabari. From Avlabari, there is an 8-minute walk to the church, around (671 meters distance). The cost of the subway ticket will be GEL 3.5 per person
A 5-minute taxi drive will take you to the cathedral. The cost ranges from 7 to 10 Georgian Laris. Distance to cover 4.2 kilometers
From Tbilisi Airport
Line Bus to Avlabari:
Distance: 22.3 kilometers
Duration: 32 minutes
Cost per person: GEL 3.5
From Avlabari, there is an 8-minute walk to the church, around (671 meters distance).
Taxi:
Distance: 16.1 kilometers
Duration: 15 minutes
Cost: GEL 20 to GEL 28
Towncar:
Distance: 16.1 kilometers
Duration: 15 minutes
Cost: GEL 55 to GEL 75
Sunday : 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Monday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Waiting Time
No
Entrance Fee
Time you can spend
30 minutes to 1 hour
Weather
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