Tbilisi, Georgia: Georgia is home its oldest and most significant Christian site, Manglisi Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Church which is in the town of Manglisi, is a 60 kilometers drive from Tbilisi in the Tetritskaro Municipality. This Georgian Orthodox cathedral has great historical and spiritual value.
The Manglisi Cathedral has its roots dating back to the early 4th century when Christianity became the official religion of Georgia. According to sources, the present structure of the cathedral was built between the 6th and 7th centuries.Â
Furthermore, the structure has a very unique architectural design, including a tetraconch (four-apse) layout which is set within an octagonal base. The cathedral was also recognized in 2006 as an ‘immovable cultural monument’ of national significance.
Sacred Relics Part of The Cathedral
The Manglisi Cathedram is believed to house sacred relics of great significance. One such relic includes a fragment of the True Cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified. The church documents mention 15 bishops, starting from the time of Tamar in the 12th-13th century, until the arrival of the Russians in the early 19th century.
Additionally, it also holds a miraculous iron of the Virgin Mary and the remains of Theodore Kvelteli. He was a 16th century Georgian priest. As per the Georgian legend, Kvelteli saved the Kingdom of Iberia (ancient Georgian) from Ottoman invasion and earned the title of national hero.
Renovations and Modern Significance
Significant renovations were carried out during the reign of King Giorgi (1014-1027). During the redevelopment, the original altar was relocated, a new dome was constructed, and a foyer and storage rooms were added.
Defensive gates were built around the perimeter and the exterior of the church were detailed with stone carvings.
At present, the Manglisi Church remains an active place of worship and a testament to Georgia’s rich Christian heritage. It continues to attract pilgrims and visitors interested in its historical and architectural legacy.
