About Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia:
Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia, located in the eastern part of the country along the banks of the Mtkvari (Kura) River in a picturesque valley surrounded by hills and mountains.Founded in the 5th century CE by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali (legendarily after discovering hot sulfur springs), its name comes from the Georgian word tbili, meaning “warm.”
Because of its location at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, and its proximity to the lucrative Silk Road, throughout history Tbilisi has been a point of contention among various global powers. To this day, the city’s location ensures its position as an important transit route for energy and trade projects.
The city is known for its striking blend of architecture—medieval churches and fortresses (like Narikala), 19th-century neoclassical and Art Nouveau buildings, Soviet-era structures, and modern developments—alongside its famous sulfur baths in the old Abanotubani district.
The city has a lively old town with wooden balconies, and a vibrant mix of Georgian hospitality, wine culture, and cosmopolitan energy at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
Catholic places of interest in Tibilisi, Republic of Georgia:
The first Catholic settlers arrived in the 13th century, and in 1240 the Dominicans founded a monastery. In 1328, a cathedral dedicated to St. John the Baptist was built, making Tbilisi an Episcopal seat.
In the 17th century Catholic missionaries returned, building a church to the Annunciation.
Tbilisi has two Catholic churches: The Cathedral of Our Lady in the old historical part of Tbilisi, and the parish church of St Peter and St Paul.
Many other Catholic churches were confiscated by the Georgian Orthodox Church after the fall of communism, when the state gave all church property back to the Georgian Orthodox church.
Saints Peter and Paul Church provides mass in English, catering for the growing Catholic expatriate population of Americans, Europeans, Indians and Maltese.
Traveling to Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia:
Most Western countries and over 65 nations enjoy visa-free entry, allowing stays up to one year in some cases. Passport holders from countries not eligible for visa-free entry can apply for an e-visa online through official channels.
By air: Tbilisi International Airport (code TBS) is the main gateway in the Republic of Georgia, served by many airlines.
By train: There is train service from Tbilisi to many other cities in Europe.