Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, commonly known as Sameba, is the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church located in Tbilisi. Construction began in the mid-1990s and the completed complex was consecrated in 2004.

The cathedral complex comprises a large central domed church with adjacent chapels and service buildings, designed to serve as a national cathedral and a seat of the Patriarchate. Interiors include traditional Orthodox iconography and large ceremonial spaces suitable for major liturgical events.

The site occupies a dominant hilltop position and provides panoramic views over central Tbilisi, making the complex visible from many parts of the city. It regularly hosts national religious ceremonies and large congregational services.

The cathedral was commissioned after Georgia regained independence in the 1990s as a national religious project for the Georgian Orthodox Church. Construction began in 1995 and the completed building was consecrated in 2004; the project combined modern construction techniques with traditional Georgian ecclesiastical forms.

Sameba sits on Elia Hill on the left bank of the Kura (Mtkvari) River in central Tbilisi, providing a prominent skyline position above the city and easy access from central districts.

• Construction dates: Construction began in 1995 and the cathedral complex was consecrated in 2004, making it one of the newest large national cathedrals in the Orthodox world.

What to See #

• Cathedral building: The main cathedral building with a large central dome and adjacent auxiliary chapels that together form the principal seat for the Georgian Orthodox Church.
• Patriarchal complex: Complex including a bell tower, administrative and residential buildings for the Patriarchate and facilities used for religious services and national ceremonies.