GEO: Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

Elia Hill, Tbilisi, Georgia
Daily: 10.00am - 6.00pm

Affectionately known as Sameba Cathedral by many locals, Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi was constructed between 1995 and 2004. It's the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church, which is the third tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the world at the point of writing.

My BFF and I took the metro to Avlabari station. From there, we had a nice stroll to the cathedral.

Yes, caffeine triggers your body to release endorphins and make you happy! :)

We went into the cathedral complex via the side gate.

There are some candles and memorabilia on sale if you're interested.

Let's take a look inside that structure next to the main building.

The cathedral is one of the world's largest religious buildings by total area, not to mention that the compound is also spacious.

The dome of the cathedral is surmounted by a 7.5 m tall gilded gold cross.

I just had to pose, of course. :P

Do take note of the dress code before entering the place of worship.

The moment you enter the cathedral, you'll be greeted with lots of merchandise.

There's a nice model of the cathedral complex, but its legend is in Georgian only (not shown).

The following pictures provide an overview of the interior of the cathedral.

The architecture is primarily of the traditional Georgian style with some Byzantine undertones.

As you can see, the front part above the iconostasis was undergoing some renovation work.

Let's look at some interior details.

I was certainly encapsulated in serenity there.

I suppose it must be a treasured altar cloth.

"I am the Light of the world; the one who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have light and life." (John 8:12)

Quite an interesting sculpture of a cross, no?

Do take some time to enjoy the view within and beyond the compound.

Can you see Mount Mtatsminda and Tbilisi TV Broadcasting Tower in the background?

That's the bell tower situated near the main gate.

My two little friends wouldn't want to miss the opportunity to get their photos taken before we left the compound from the main gate.

There's an eatery that goes by the name Lagidze Water Café within the cathedral complex.

Due to its much greater vertical emphasis compared to the traditional Georgian style, Sameba Cathedral is "regarded as an eyesore by many people, it's equally venerated by as many others".