Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Georgia - Timings, Tips & Things To Do

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Georgia: Overview

Every country is associated with some sacred places that help highlight the real history of the country. While exploring Georgia, one iconic historical place is the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. What makes this place special is its unique Georgian architecture and the largest church structure. The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Georgia is a well-known place of worship for the Georgian Orthodox community since the day it was built. Visiting the Cathedral, you will appreciate its artistic value, harmony, and the special role it has performed in the history and art of the country.

A tour to Georgia’s religious sites can never be completed without visiting the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. With its attractive construction, the cathedral is connected with Christianity, which was during the period of the Kartli Kingdom. Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, get mesmerised by the high artistic and cultural events. So, whether you want to see the stunning architecture or you want to know about Georgia’s past, the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is a perfect destination for you.

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How To Reach Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

By Taxi
One of the easiest options to reach Svetitskhovel Cathedral is to hire a taxi from Tbilisi and reach your destination. By taxi, you can reach in around 25 minutes to the heritage site and it will cost between $6-$9.
By Car
Hire a private car from Tbilisi to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, as travelling by car is convenient for both the group and the solo travellers. It will be a comfortable ride for you as you don’t need to worry about any other public transport schedules, and driving by car takes approximately 40 minutes.
By Bus
If you are looking for an affordable transportation, then travelling by bus is appropriate for you. There are direct buses available from Tbilisi to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and it also includes marshrutkas, which are the minivans that run across the places.

Best Time To Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Planning to visit the Georgia Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the best time is during the spring or the autumn season. During this time, you will find pleasant weather with fewer crowds. You must travel on the weekdays and in the early morning, as this will let you enjoy the natural beauty and the history across the site. If you want to look at the Cathedral architecture and the surrounding areas, winter months are best for you. You can discover the charm of this landmark, one of the most spiritual places to visit in Georgia, in cooler months and enjoy the snowfall.

Tips To Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

When visiting the popular religious site, you must dress respectfully. The clothes that you wear should cover your shoulders and knees.
You are allowed to take photos outside the church, but it is limited inside the church during the time of services offered.
For a peaceful environment, you must visit the place in the early morning, as during this time, you will admire the heritage site more deeply.
Plan your visit on the weekdays as there are fewer travellers, which will help you enjoy the architecture more in the quiet time.
Explore the nearby souvenirs to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which includes handcrafted treasures.
Women should cover their heads with scarves to respect the culture of Georgia.

Things To Do at Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

When visiting the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, learn about the burial sites of Georgian kings.
Explore the spectacular architecture of the church, showcasing special designs which include the stone work and the big dome.
You must visit the tombs of Georgian Monarchs, including the tomb of Erekle II and a stone for King Vakhtang Gorgasali.
Discover the collection of frescoes that highlights saints and biblical scenes. The charm of artworks makes it a spiritual place.
Explore the nearby attraction, Mtskheta which is popular for history and you will get to know about lots of interesting facts.
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Quick INFO

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral Timings:

Monday

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday

8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Time Required to Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: 1 to 1.5 Hours

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Nearby Places in Georgia

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National Gallery

Kobuleti Beach

Gergeti Trinity Church

Martvili Canyon

Gveleti Waterfall

Astronomical Clock

Kartlis Deda

FAQs About Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Why does Svetitskhoveli Cathedral hold historical importance?

The Svetitskhoveli is historically important as it is the burial site of Christ’s robe and symbolises the Georgian Orthodox Church and the associated history. The Cathedral shows the entire history of Georgia, with battles, construction, destruction and more.

Are there any charges to pay when visiting Svetitskhoveli Cathedral?

No, there are no charges to enter the religious site. If you want to do any donations, then you can do that.

How much time is required to explore Svetitskhoveli Cathedral?

1-2 hours are enough to explore the church, including its architecture, learn about the facts and visit the surrounding areas.

Is Svetitskhoveli Cathedral open all week?

Yes, the site is open every day from morning to evening. On Monday, the timing is 9:00 AM- 7:00 PM, and from Tuesday to Sunday, the timing is 8:00 AM- 7:00 PM.