Anchiskhati Basilica
Georgia's oldest church, a 6th-century basilica in Tbilisi's Old City, featuring ancient frescoes and a mysterious, sacred atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Anchiskhati Basilica
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Georgia's oldest church, a 6th-century basilica in Tbilisi's Old City, featuring ancient frescoes and a mysterious, sacred atmosphere.
"A genuine gem, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, offering a glimpse into centuries of history and art. "
🤫 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees; women may need headscarves. Robes often available. :dress:
🚫 No Photos Inside
Photography is prohibited to protect the ancient frescoes. :noentrysign:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
6th Century Architecture
Old City, Tbilisi
Explore Georgia's oldest church, a testament to early Christian architecture with a mysterious, dimly lit interior.
Interior Frescoes
Inside the Basilica
Marvel at the ancient frescoes and paintings adorning the walls, offering a glimpse into centuries of religious art.
17th Century Altarpiece
Altar Area
Admire the historical 17th-century altarpiece, a significant piece of religious artistry within the basilica.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code for Sacred Spaces
Photography Restrictions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Anchiskhati Basilica Tbilisi Xplore Georgia S1E8 4K
🤫 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees; women may need headscarves. Robes often available. :dress:
🚫 No Photos Inside
Photography is prohibited to protect the ancient frescoes. :noentrysign:
🚶♀️ Hidden Gem Entrance
Enter via a stone gate on Ioane Shavteli Street, then walk down stairs. :walking:
💰 Free Admission
Entry to the basilica is free, though parking may have a fee. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees; women may need headscarves. Robes often available. :dress:
🚫 No Photos Inside
Photography is prohibited to protect the ancient frescoes. :noentrysign:
🚶♀️ Hidden Gem Entrance
Enter via a stone gate on Ioane Shavteli Street, then walk down stairs. :walking:
💰 Free Admission
Entry to the basilica is free, though parking may have a fee. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Anchiskhati Basilica as a genuine gem and the oldest church in Tbilisi, appreciating its historical significance and ancient frescoes. While photography is prohibited inside, the serene and mysterious atmosphere is a highlight. Some note the need for respectful attire and the church's somewhat hidden entrance.
"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."
mo a
"“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?"
Genuine Gems (By Paul & Merel)
"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."
Mallika Jamy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anchiskhati Basilica is located in the northern part of Tbilisi's Old City. You can reach it by entering a large stone gate on Ioane Shavteli Street and walking down the stairs. It's a bit of a hidden gem, so keep an eye out for the entrance.
While there isn't direct public transport to the basilica's immediate entrance, it's centrally located in the Old City, making it accessible by bus or metro to nearby stops, followed by a pleasant walk.
Look for the stone gate on Ioane Shavteli Street. The street itself is known for its artworks, so it's a good landmark to navigate by. Once you find the gate, descend the stairs to reach the church.
Parking is available in the vicinity of the Old City, though it may come with a fee. It's often easier to explore the area on foot once you've parked.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Anchiskhati Basilica is free. It's a place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter without a ticket.
The basilica is generally open during daylight hours, but it's best to check for any specific service times or temporary closures. It's an active place of worship.
Yes, a respectful dress code is required. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and women are often asked to cover their heads. Free choir robes are usually available if needed.
Photography is not allowed inside the basilica to preserve the ancient frescoes and maintain the sacred atmosphere.
No, pets are not permitted inside the church.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the basilica to protect the delicate frescoes. You can take photos of the exterior, but be mindful of the sacred nature of the site.
The exterior of the basilica itself offers charming photo opportunities, especially with the backdrop of the Old City. The surrounding streets also provide picturesque scenes.
The restriction on photography is primarily to preserve the ancient frescoes and paintings on the walls, which can be damaged by flash photography and frequent use.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children are dressed appropriately, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a requirement for all visitors. If they are too young to have appropriate clothing, the availability of free choir robes can be a lifesaver. The free admission makes it an accessible activity for families on a budget.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
The ancient frescoes and the 17th-century altarpiece are significant religious artifacts that contribute to the basilica's sacred atmosphere. The quiet, dimly lit interior encourages introspection and prayer. Remember to adhere to the dress code and refrain from photography to show respect for the holy site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
During the Soviet era, many churches were repurposed. Anchiskhati Basilica was converted into a museum of handicrafts, a stark contrast to its original religious function. Despite these transformations, it remains a vital spiritual center, celebrating the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin annually on September 21st. The church's name, Anchiskhati, was adopted in the 17th century when an icon of the Savior was transferred from the Anchii Cathedral to this basilica.
Visiting Anchiskhati offers a tangible connection to Tbilisi's deep historical and religious roots. The atmosphere inside, often described as mysterious and dark, is enhanced by the ancient frescoes that cover its walls. While photography is restricted, the experience of standing within such an ancient structure is profound.
Experiencing the Atmosphere
While the exterior was restored with brick, the interior retains much of its ancient character. The presence of a 17th-century altarpiece adds another layer of historical significance. For those seeking a moment of quiet contemplation, the basilica offers a serene escape from the bustling Old City.
It's important to note that Anchiskhati is an active place of worship. Visitors may encounter services or prayers, which can enhance the spiritual experience. Respecting the sanctity of the space, including the dress code and photography restrictions, is crucial for a meaningful visit.
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