
Anchiskhati Basilica
Anchiskhati Basilica
Tbilisi, Georgia
Venerable, 6th-century Orthodox church, adorned with interior frescoes & a 17th-century altarpiece.
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Overview
Venerable, 6th-century Orthodox church, adorned with interior frescoes & a 17th-century altarpiece.
Opening Hours
Visitor Reviews
**★★★★★ Luana Bedin — 3 months ago
This is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, a place of great historical importance, with its original construction dating back to the 6th century. The architecture is that of a classic three-nave basilica. The exterior is made of stone and has a rustic and simple appearance, very different from the newer cathedrals. Being so old, it has a special charm. It's a worthwhile visit, even if just to admire the facade and its history. Women must cover their heads to enter. Admission is free.
**★★★★★ Bharathi Mani — 3 months ago
A simple, peaceful and charming cathedral. It has old world charm so do go in and reflect for a moment. It's not been renovated so it had a special charm. Dress code is followed. Wrap around skirts and stoles are available for women. Entrance is free
**★★★★★ Abdulrahman Qazzaz — 5 months ago
The Anchiskhati Basilica of St Mary is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, dating back to the 6th century.
According to the old Georgian annals, the church was built by the King Dachi of Iberia, who had made Tbilisi his capital.
Originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was renamed Anchiskhati in 1675 when the treasured icon of the Savior created by the twelfth-century goldsmith Beka Opizari at the Ancha monastery in Klarjeti (in what is now part of northeast Turkey) was moved to Tbilisi
**★★★★★ Genuine Gems (By Paul & Merel) — 5 months ago
“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
**★★★★★ mo a — 6 months ago
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










