Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi, Georgia is a major symbol of the city. As the third-tallest Eastern Orthodox Cathedral in the world, it can be seen from all around the city. Here is everything you need to know about the Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Sameba, in Tbilisi.
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The Holy Trinity Cathedral is a massive symbol of the city’s post-Soviet revival. This cathedral, also known as Tsminda Sameba, stands tall on Elia Hill above central Tbilisi.
The church is unmissable, both due to its size and materials. Sameba was high on my list of things to see in Tbilisi, and it definitely didn’t disappoint! Here I will share everything you need to knw about this stunning cathedral.
No time to read? No problem! Book a tour to Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral now!
This tour includes the famous cable car ride as well as Holy Trinity Cathedral. It stops at several other can’t-miss highlights in Tbilisi, too, like the Narikala Fortress!
The Background of Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral
The Holy Trinity Cathedral is a surprisingly recent construction, built between 1995 and 2004.
The architect Archil Mindiashvili won an international design contest back in 1989. However, the project was delayed for more than six years because of the turbulence leading into the post-Soviet era.
After nine long years of construction, this gorgeous church was completed and was consecrated by high-ranking representatives in the Catholic and Orthodox worlds. The construction was funded primarily through private donations.
The Sameba complex consists of the iconic cathedral, a separate and free-standing bell-tower, a monastery, a residence, and a couple of seminary and academic buildings.
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The Architecture of Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral
This gorgeous cathedral features traditional Georgian architectural elements and materials like concrete, brick, granite and marble. The detailing when you look up close is incredible!
From the outside, the first thing visitors will notice is the multi-tiered roofs, creating a visually balanced design. The central dome rises up high into the sky, adorned with a shining gold cross on top of a gold colored roof.
I was surprised to learn that some Georgians consider this church an eyesore. I found it to be one of the most stunning churches in the entire Caucus region! And, let me tell you – between visiting Armenia and Georgia, I saw a lot of churches and cathedrals.
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The interior is largely bare. Though wide and spacious, the most impressive element is how the central dome rises up, bright and tall.
I visited twice, and both times there was either a church service happening or a family event taking place inside, so it is frequently in use by the congregation.
The overall area of the cathedral spans across more than 32,000 square feet.
Visiting the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi
The Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral is located high on a hill above Tbilisi’s Old Town.
Visiting hours of the Holy Trinity Cathedral
Sameba is tucked behind a large gate which is locked each and every night. Visiting hours to the cathedral grounds are between the hours of 8am and 10pm.
Georgian liturgy services are typically held at 4:00 pm on Saturday and 9:00 am on Sunday. However, other events may be taking place throughout the day.
Is there an entrance fee?
Nope! Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi is free to enter. Rosaries and other religious souvenirs are available for purchase on site.
How to dress:
Tbilisi is, in general, pretty relaxed in terms of dress code. However, you should plan to wear modest clothing if you want to enter the cathedral. Think skirts that cover your knees and a scarf to cover your head.
I typically carry extra scarves or garments in my bag so that I’m prepared for anything, especially in this region!
How to Reach Tbilisi’s Holy Trinity Cathedral
Though I did rent a car in Georgia, I did not use it within Tbilisi since the city is mostly walkable. So to get to the cathedral, I used Yandex – one of the best travel apps for the Caucus region – which is similar to Uber.
But, here are all of the services you can use to reach Sameba:
- Hire a Taxi (check my taxi safety tips, too!)
- Via the Metro (Avlabari stop)
- Yandex rideshare app
- Take the public bus (use the Samreklo #26 stop – opposite of Sameba Cathedral)
- Rental car
- By bike or by foot
What To See Next?
Take a cooking class! I took this exact cooking class in Tbilisi and had a blast. You can read all about the experience here, or book it directly here.
Or, check out my comprehensive list of things to do in Tbilisi.
Go on a day trip to Sighnaghi, one of Georgia’s most famous wine region tons. Or, spend a few days there. Check out my guide to Sighnaghi for more information.
Want to see lush green nature? Check out my post on Martvili Canyon, one of the prettiest spots in all of Georgia! You can also book a day trip here.
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The Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi, Georgia was one of the most beautiful churches I visited within the Caucus region. I highly recommend that tourists stop by for a visit!
What do you think about this church? Stunning or eyesore? Let me know below!
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