Anchiskhati Basilica
Tbilisi
Anchiskhati Basilica of St Mary, located in Tbilisi, Georgia, is the city's oldest surviving church, originally built in the 6th century by King Dachi of Iberia. It was initially dedicated to the Virgin Mary but renamed Anchiskhati in 1675 when a treasured icon from the Ancha monastery was brought here for safekeeping. The basilica has endured multiple damages and restorations due to conflicts between Georgia and neighboring empires, including Persians and Turks. Architecturally, it is a three-span basilica with horseshoe-shaped conches, constructed originally from yellow tuff stone, with later restorations incorporating brick. A notable feature is the brick belfry added in 1675. The church's interior includes a 1683 altarpiece painted by order of Catholicos Nikoloz Amilakhvari, with other paintings dating from the 19th century. During Soviet times, the basilica ceased religious functions and served as a museum and art studio, but it returned to religious use after Georgia's independence in 1991. The Anchiskhati Choir, based here, is internationally acclaimed for Georgian polyphonic choral music. The basilica remains a vital spiritual and cultural monument in Tbilisi, hosting relics and continuing traditions of the Georgian Orthodox Church.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and to experience the calm spiritual atmosphere. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The basilica offers spiritual and cultural insights, so guided tours or audio guides can enhance the visit. Modest dress is appreciated due to its religious significance. The best time to visit is spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Check the official website for special events or choir performances.
Faits intéressants
- •Anchiskhati Basilica is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, dating back to the 6th century.
- •The basilica houses the famous icon of the Savior, originally from the Ancha monastery, created by 12th-century goldsmith Beka Opizari.
- •The brick belfry near the basilica was built in 1675 and remains a distinctive architectural feature.
- •During the Soviet period, the basilica was converted into a museum for handicrafts and later an art studio.
- •The Anchiskhati Choir, based at the basilica, is a world-renowned exponent of Georgian polyphonic choral music.
Histoire
Anchiskhati Basilica was constructed in the early 6th century under King Dachi of Iberia after making Tbilisi his capital.
In 1675, it was renamed after the relocation of a sacred icon from the Ancha monastery to protect it from Ottoman invasion.
The basilica suffered damages during the 15th to 17th centuries due to wars with Persians and Turks and was rebuilt multiple times.
A brick belfry was added in 1675 by Catholicos Domenti.
In the 1870s, a dome was added, significantly altering its appearance.
During the Soviet era, religious services ceased, and the building was repurposed as a museum and art studio.
Restoration between 1958 and 1964 restored much of its 17th-century look.
After Georgia regained independence in 1991, the basilica resumed its religious role.
Guide du lieu
Main Basilica Structure6th century
The three-span basilica features horseshoe-shaped conches divided by two abutments, showcasing early medieval Georgian architecture. Originally built with yellow tuff stone, much of the current brickwork dates from 20th-century restorations.
Brick Belfry1675
Constructed in 1675 by Catholicos Domenti, the brick belfry stands adjacent to the basilica and is a prominent feature reflecting the church's historical resilience and architectural evolution.
Altarpiece1683
Painted in 1683 by order of Catholicos Nikoloz Amilakhvari, the altarpiece is one of the basilica's significant artistic elements, representing religious art from the late 17th century.
