The Anchiskhati Basilica is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, Georgia, dating back to the 6th century. Originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the structure is a classic example of the three-nave basilica architectural style, which was prevalent in early Christian Georgian architecture. Its stone walls have witnessed the city's turbulent history, surviving numerous invasions and reconstructions over the centuries.
The church derives its name from the 'Anchi' icon, a highly revered 12th-century encaustic icon of the Savior that was moved here from the Anchi Monastery in the 17th century to protect it from Ottoman incursions. Today, the basilica remains an active place of worship and a significant cultural landmark in the historic Old Tbilisi district.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Tuff, Brick, Stone
- Civilization
- Georgian
- Accessibility
- Ground level access, cobblestone surroundings
- Date(s)
- 6th century CE
- Condition
- Active, well-preserved with later modifications
- Original Function
- Eastern Orthodox Church
- Key Figures
- King Dachi of Iberia
Founding
6th centuryThe church was reportedly built by King Dachi of Iberia shortly after he made Tbilisi the capital of his kingdom. It served as the primary religious center for the growing city.
Architectural Evolution
17th centuryFollowing significant damage during the Persian invasions, the church underwent major renovations in the 17th century. It was during this period that the Anchi icon was installed, leading to the church's current name.
Soviet Era and Restoration
20th centuryDuring the Soviet period, the church was repurposed as a museum of handicrafts and later as an art studio. It was returned to the Georgian Orthodox Church in the late 1980s and underwent extensive restoration to return it to its religious function.
Cultural Significance
Anchiskhati is a cornerstone of Georgian national identity, representing the continuity of Christianity in the Caucasus despite centuries of regional conflict. It serves as a living repository of Georgian ecclesiastical art and history, particularly through its association with the Anchi icon, which is considered one of the most important artifacts in the Georgian Orthodox tradition.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
There is ongoing academic discussion regarding the extent of the original 6th-century masonry versus the 17th-century reconstructions. While the core structure is accepted as early medieval, the exact original floor plan remains a subject of archaeological analysis due to the multiple layers of renovation.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open daily. Free entry. As an active church, visitors should dress modestly; women are encouraged to cover their heads and men should remove hats. Please remain quiet and avoid photography during ongoing liturgical services.
Best Times to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid large tour groups. The church is particularly atmospheric during Sunday morning services.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted, but flash is strictly prohibited. Do not photograph worshippers or clergy during services.
Nearby POIs
33 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]The Christian Monuments of Georgia — Nodar Shoshiashvili. Georgian Academy of Sciences (1998)
- [2]Tbilisi: A Guide to the History and Architecture — Giorgi Beridze. Tbilisi University Press (2005)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Tuff, Brick, Stone
- Civilization
- Georgian
- Accessibility
- Ground level access, cobblestone surroundings