Bolnisi Sioni

Bolnisi Sioni Church is located in Lower Kartli region, Bolnisi municipality, East Georgia, 8 km from town Bolnisi. The church is famous for its wall inscriptions, which show us the earliest samples of Georgia Alphabet.

The church was constructed in 478-493 AD, which makes it the oldest extant church building in Georgia. Parts of the structure were damaged seriously in the 17th century. Bolnisi Sioni was renovated twice in the second half of the 17th century, and twice in the 20th century, during the Soviet period.

Bolnisi Sioni Church is a three-nave basilica. Interior and north gallery has interesting ornaments, including both pagan and Christian sculptural elements, such as birds, animals, etc. An iconic cross, named Bolnuri Jvari (Bolnuri Cross), is depicted on the eastern façade of the church. Bolnuri Cross became a national symbol of Georgia and is depicted on the modern flag as well.

Working hours: every day 09:00-18:00
Admission: limited during the liturgy
Entrance: free of charge
Dress code: required

To book private tour, please, contact trip adviser here.

Dmanisi, Bolnisi & Tsugrugasheni from Tbilisi