Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
Attraction
4.8 (12221 reviews)
This iconic 11th-century Eastern Orthodox cathedral features a 4th-century baptismal font.
RPRC+V9W, Narekvavi-Mtskheta-Railway Station, Mtskheta, Georgia
Did You Know?
Birthplace of Georgian Christianity
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral stands in Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, where Christianity was officially adopted as the state religion in 337 AD.
Meaning of the Name
The name 'Svetitskhoveli' translates to 'Cathedral of the Living Pillar,' referencing a legend about a piece of Christ's robe being brought to Georgia and miraculously growing into a pillar.
World Heritage Site
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, along with the Jvari Monastery and Samtavro Monastery, is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its historical and cultural significance.
Ancient Origins
The original Svetitskhoveli Cathedral was built in the 4th century, though it has been damaged and rebuilt several times throughout history due to invasions, earthquakes, and other events.