Walk to the Cathedral

Walking to the cathedral, the streets are lined with shops and locals selling souvenirs, food and drink.

Papaka Hats

I’m bringing back 4 black papakha hats for Michael’s band members to wear during a gig. Here is Dachi and I as he tried one on. What a cutie!  He sorta looks like Orlando Bloom in this picture.

Yes, ladies….it’s been a difficult week spending my days with this young man…

Cross on the Mountain

There is a cross on this mountain – overlooking the city.

Dachi explained to me what it meant. If I remember correctly, its purpose was to tell invaders from Asia that this is a Christian area?

View of the Cathedral From the Street

Most Holy of Churches

Dachi told me that the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is the most holy of churches in Georgia. Here is where the robe Jesus wore during or shortly after his crucifixion and members of the original Royal Family are buried.

The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, anything that is restored in or around the church has to be made to look new – it cannot be made to look old.

South Side of the Cathedral

East Side the Cathedral

The back of the cathedral faces east. This allows for the rising sun to shine through the red stain glass window and fill the interior of the cathedral with a soft red glow.

The angel on the left bottom corner of the window, and the first Saint of the three is Saint Nina. The oxen heads are a representation of strength.

Newer Building – Priest’s Residence

North Side of the Church

Story has it that the architect hired by the king to design the church, fell in love with the queen.  She returned his feelings.  The king – looking for a way to revenge this, cut the right hand of the architect off.  

There is a show of this story displayed on the church.  It’s the hand holding what looks to be a hammer…

Along the Stone Wall

Along the interior front wall of the cathedral you see a newly renovated door – made to look new and the large clay pots that once were underground held wine.

Entering the Church

I had to cover my hair and wear a wrap around my pants (women are not to wear pants in the church).

Interior of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

The interior of the church, with it’s frescoed walls, tombs of kings and area that holds the robe of Jesus felt like I had stepped back in history and is one the most beautiful churches I’ve walked through.

I wasn’t allowed to take pictures inside the church.  There were people sneaking pictures, but Dachi and I both agreed to respect the rules.  And, if I was caught he would get yelled at by the priest who was walking around, keeping an eye on everyone!  

I’ve upload a photo from the internet to show you.

Photo Credit – global-geography.org

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral with Jvari Monastery in the Background

Warm Finale

It was time to warm up with fresh bread filled with cheese, still warm from the oven!

S, 🇬🇪