Sioni Cathedral: the pride of the Tbilisi Old Town

Georgia is famous for its nature, ancient history, old churches, etc. In this article, I am going to tell you about the Sioni Cathedral, that is the pride of the Old Town of Tbilisi. Sioni Cathedral is one of the most known monuments in Tbilisi, and I am sure, that you would like to know more about it. 

History

Sioni Cathedral is located in the Old Town of Tbilisi, on the right bank of Mtkvari River. It was built in the 7th century, and it is connected to the name of the Assumption of the Mother of God. The enemies destroyed this cathedral several times. However, every time it could proudly rise from the ashes. Sioni Cathedral was the main one in Georgia and the residence of our Catholic-Patriarch until 2004 before the Holy Trinity Cathedral was constructed. It is noteworthy to mention that in the 13th century during one of the invasions the enemies destroyed the dome of the cathedral. They tortured Georgians who refused to show the disrespect towards the main icons of Sioni Cathedral by walking over the icons. After that, the dome was reconstructed because this cathedral is really precious and important for Georgians. 

Sioni Cathedral now 

Nowadays, Sioni Cathedral has the same appearance as it had in the 13th century. However, some changes were made from the 17th to 19th centuries. It is a clear example of the medieval Georgian church architecture. The cathedral was built with yellow rocks and keeps many secrets from its history. Sioni Cathedral is painted by Georgian and Russian painters. It is a very beautiful and interesting mix to see. Another very important fact about Sioni Cathedral is that a real cross of St. Nino is kept inside. She was a person, who spread Christianity in Georgia in the 4th century. According to the chronicles, St. Nino gave her cross to King Mirian. She made this cross by herself out of the grapevine and secured it by entwining it with her own hair. Sioni Cathedral has many visitors, and some of them visit the cathedral just because of the real cross of St. Nino. You can make a wish near it and wait for the miracle. You will feel the aura of this place that will make your faith even stronger. 

Tbilisi Sioni Cathedral

3 Sioni St, Tbilisi, Géorgie

Even if you are not a religious person, but you believe in the miracles of the universe, you can still visit this place to feel this aura and make a wish. On top of that, here is also kept a miraculous stone of St. David, who was from Gareji. He brought this stone from Jerusalem, and many miracles are connected to it as well. 

While being in Georgia, do not miss Sioni Cathedral. It is the pride of the Tbilisi Old Town because it was rising from the ashes every time it was destroyed. Also, do not forget to check nearby places such as Abanotubani, Shardeni Street, a Bridge of Peace and etc. 

Abanotubani district, Tbilisi

Abanotubani, Tbilisi, Γεωργία

Shardeni Street, Tbilisi

Dzveli Tbilisi, Tbilisi, Georgia

Bridge of Peace, Tbilisi

Pont de la Paix, The Bridge of Peace, Tbilisi, Géorgie