Arguably the most well known cathedral in Georgia, Svetitskhoveli is also one of the biggest in the country. This Georgian architectural wonder dating back to the XI century has served as the religious center of the country for hundreds of years. The complex includes the church, a gate, a bell tower, castles, and clerical residences. Harsh conditions throughout Georgia’s history couldn’t stop the 10-century old building from retaining its beauty. Svetitskhoveli was the religious center for all Christians for many centuries. Further proving its importance to Christianity, there is a legend that a seamless robe of Jesus Christ is buried within the temple. Another legend states that King Giorgi ordered the hand of amputated Svetitskhoveli’s architect, so that he could never recreate something so beautiful ever again. There is still a hand depicted on the Northern facade of the building.  The tombs of Tbilisi’s founder, King Vakhtang Gorgasali is also inside the building. The cathedral is included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is still the setting for important ceremonies of the Georgian Orthodox Church. Small fragments of paintings which date back to the 11^th century let you live through the lives of ancient Georgia, leaving you amazed and stunned. Even though Georgia is packed with many astonishing churches and cathedrals, Svetitskhoveli is a must-see for any tourist visiting the country.

Samtavro is one of the most important cultural monuments. St. Nino lived here, King Mirian and Queen Nana are buried here. Abibo Nekreseli, one of the Assyrian fathers, is also buried in the Samtavro monastery. The complex includes several buildings: the main temple, St. Nino’s church, bell tower and fence with a tower. The main temple dates back to the 11th century, although the date of its construction is unknown. Small St. Nino’s Church dates back to the 11th century, but it is known that the church was first built by King Mirian in the 4th century. This church is also mentioned in the life of St. Nino. The history of the Samtavro Nunnery dates back to 1820. While monastic life in Georgia was disappearing, ten nuns in Mtskheta laid the foundation for the establishment of a monastery. They also restored the small temple of St. Nino. During the Soviet period, mothers were sometimes trained as textile workers to save the monastery. There are candle making, art, sewing and other workshops. Samtavro is one of the most important and noteworthy monuments in Mtskheta from the historical and cultural point of view.