Walking toward the Sioni Cathedral on one of the main tourist streets, I looked up between the buildings and saw a green brick church dome. The dome looked old, with grass or wheat sprouting from the brickwork. I took a picture and wondered which church that was. Then, at the next opening between the buildings, I saw that amazing turquoise dome again. What is this place, I wondered…
[Read more…] about Behind the Forgotten Doors: Abandoned Armenian Churches in Tbilisi
Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi – A Rare Historic Church
One of Georgia’s most important historic cathedrals, once the center of Georgian orthodoxy. Although invaders repeatedly destroyed it, the Georgians rebuilt it, Sioni preserves the memory of early Georgian Christianity and the layers of sorrow it has endured. The church honors Saint Nino with a Grapevine Cross, traditionally connected with Georgia’s conversion to Christianity, as well as one of the skulls of the twelve disciples.
[Read more…] about Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi – A Rare Historic Church
When Stones Cry Out: The Lost Memory of the Red Gospel Armenian Church in Tbilisi
During my visits to Tbilisi, Georgia, I discovered some aspects of the Armenian presence in the city. Let’s explore some of these hidden finds in this amazing city, which reflect the tension between Georgia and Armenia today.
[Read more…] about When Stones Cry Out: The Lost Memory of the Red Gospel Armenian Church in Tbilisi
The Oldest 5th-6th Century Churches in Tbilisi, Georgia
Visiting the capital city, Tbilisi, where all the churches seem to look alike, which ones are the oldest churches in Tbilisi? Here is a list of the oldest churches (considering when first built) that will provide insight into how the Georgian Orthodox church has remained the religious center for over 1,500 years.
[Read more…] about The Oldest 5th-6th Century Churches in Tbilisi, Georgia