
Cathedral of the Holy Trinity
Georgia's largest Orthodox cathedral, Sameba, boasts stunning golden domes and intricate frescoes, a modern marvel of faith and architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Cathedral of the Holy Trinity
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Georgia's largest Orthodox cathedral, Sameba, boasts stunning golden domes and intricate frescoes, a modern marvel of faith and architecture.
"A colossal, modern Orthodox cathedral with stunning golden domes that dominate the Tbilisi skyline."

Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Capture the Grandeur
Photography is usually permitted, but be mindful of services. No flash inside! :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Exterior
Tbilisi, Georgia
A colossal, modern Orthodox cathedral with stunning golden domes that dominate the Tbilisi skyline.

Intricate Interior
Main Sanctuary
Marvel at the detailed frescoes, ornate iconostasis, and the sheer scale of the cathedral's sacred space.

Peaceful Garden
Cathedral Grounds
A tranquil oasis surrounding the cathedral, offering a moment of reflection and beautiful views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Sameba
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Capture the Grandeur
Photography is usually permitted, but be mindful of services. No flash inside! :camerawithflash:
Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the beautiful garden surrounding the cathedral for great photos and a moment of peace. :evergreen_tree:
Visit the Old Church
Adjacent to the main cathedral, find a smaller, older church with historical significance. :church:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Capture the Grandeur
Photography is usually permitted, but be mindful of services. No flash inside! :camerawithflash:
Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the beautiful garden surrounding the cathedral for great photos and a moment of peace. :evergreen_tree:
Visit the Old Church
Adjacent to the main cathedral, find a smaller, older church with historical significance. :church:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi's magnificent architecture and spiritual ambiance. Its grand scale and intricate interior details are frequently praised, offering a breathtaking experience. Some note that it can get crowded, and adherence to a modest dress code is essential.
"Niš Cathedral is the third largest church in Serbia, after the Church of St. Sava and the church of St. Mark in Belgrade.
The church was built despite all the problems and distractions of the Ottoman government at the time. After the liberation of Niš from the Turks in 1878, bells were placed on the church. One of the bells was cast from Ottoman cannons.
To this day, it is one of the most important monuments of liberation from Ottoman rule."
Monika Karlińska
"Central Orthodox Cathedral near the centre of the city. Open to visitors every day. Traditional religious ceremonies are held on principal church holidays. Beautiful interior and lovely garden."
Mirjana Milenkovic
"Central - Main Ortodox Church in town. Next to the big Church,there is a smaller and older Church from the time when Ottoman Empire occupied this area of Europe. A beautiful place to visit and to see and feel a piece of history, tradition and peace. ☦️⛪🇷🇸"
MilanChe Machiavelli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (Sameba) is located on a hill overlooking the city. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps, or public transport. Buses are available, and it's a moderate walk uphill from many central locations. Some visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with nearby attractions.
Yes, several bus routes stop near the cathedral. It's advisable to check local bus schedules upon arrival. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available and offer a direct route.
Many visitors enjoy the walk up to the cathedral, offering increasingly impressive views of its golden domes as you ascend. Taxis are a quicker option if you prefer to save energy.
Limited parking may be available near the cathedral, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Using public transport or taxis is often more convenient.
Yes, it's a walkable distance from the city center, though it involves an uphill climb. The walk offers scenic views and is a great way to experience Tbilisi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi is generally free. It is an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter and explore.
The cathedral is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check for any specific holiday hours or service times that might affect visitor access.
There is no admission fee to enter the main sanctuary of the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
Yes, you can visit on Sundays, but be aware that services will be taking place. You may need to be quieter and more mindful of worshippers during these times.
The primary restriction is to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Be respectful of ongoing religious services and avoid loud noises or disruptive behavior.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Holy Trinity Cathedral, but it's crucial to avoid using flash. Be respectful of worshippers and any ongoing services.
The exterior, with its grand architecture and golden domes, is a prime photo opportunity. Inside, the intricate frescoes and the vastness of the space are stunning. The surrounding gardens also offer beautiful perspectives.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and around religious sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone near the cathedral.
The main rule is no flash photography. Also, be mindful of where you are standing and avoid obstructing pathways or disturbing services.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides beautiful lighting for exterior shots. The golden hour can cast a warm glow on the golden domes.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Sameba Cathedral is the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church and a symbol of Georgia's religious revival. It's one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals globally, built between 1995 and 2004.
Inside, you'll find impressive frescoes covering the walls and ceilings, an ornate iconostasis, and a vast central nave. The sheer scale and artistic detail are breathtaking.
Yes, a modest dress code is expected. Women should cover their heads (scarves are often available), and both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the cathedral and its grounds. If you wish to sit and reflect or take many photos, you might want to allocate more time.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. There might also be a small gift shop selling religious items.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel of Sameba
The exterior is characterized by its massive golden domes that gleam under the Georgian sun, visible from many parts of the city. The intricate stonework and the imposing facade create a powerful visual impact. Inside, visitors are met with a breathtaking expanse adorned with vibrant frescoes that depict biblical scenes and saints. The ornate iconostasis, a screen separating the sanctuary from the nave, is a focal point, rich with detailed iconography. The atmosphere within is one of solemnity and awe, inviting contemplation and spiritual reflection.
Beyond its religious function, Sameba Cathedral is a significant cultural symbol for Georgia. Its construction represented a revival of national spirit and religious identity following the Soviet era. The cathedral's prominent location on a hill offers panoramic views of Tbilisi, further cementing its status as a must-visit landmark for understanding the city's spiritual and architectural landscape.
Experiencing Sameba: Tips from Visitors
When visiting, remember to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacred nature of the site. Scarves are often available for those who need them. While photography is generally allowed, avoid using flash to preserve the artwork and avoid disturbing worshippers.
Don't just focus on the main cathedral; many visitors suggest exploring the peaceful garden surrounding the complex. It offers a tranquil space for reflection and provides excellent vantage points for photographing the cathedral itself. Additionally, some Reddit users mention a smaller, older church located next to the main structure, which is worth exploring for its historical context.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit