About
The Anchiskhati Basilica stands in Tbilisi, Georgia, and is the oldest surviving church in the city. Its origins go back to the 6th century, which makes it a place where a visitor can see early Georgian Christian architecture rather than a later reconstruction presented as history.
What to expect
The basilica is a modest, traditional church. Visitors come to look at its architecture, which reflects the early Georgian Christian style, and to see the religious artifacts it holds. It is a quiet place for a short visit, well suited to anyone interested in the older layers of the city beyond its newer streets and squares.
- Early Georgian Christian architecture, dating to the 6th century
- Important religious artifacts kept inside
- A calm stop that takes less time than a full museum visit
Around the basilica
Anchiskhati sits within Tbilisi, so it pairs easily with other walks in the city. Because it is among the city's oldest buildings, it works well as a starting point for a day spent exploring Tbilisi's historic quarters, and it offers a useful contrast to the more recent parts of the capital.
If you are deciding whether to go, the basilica suits travellers who enjoy old churches and early architecture, and anyone who wants to understand where Tbilisi's long history begins.