Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church, Tbilisi, Armenian church in Old Town, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church was an Armenian place of worship in the Old Town area, built with the distinctive architectural features typical of Armenian religious structures including detailed stone carvings and decorative surface patterns. The building stood near Avlabari Square, surrounded by other Armenian heritage sites and cultural landmarks.
The building was constructed in the 18th century to serve the Armenian population of Tbilisi. It was demolished during the 1930s as part of the Soviet campaign against religious institutions.
The building served as a gathering place for Armenian families during religious holidays and celebrations, anchoring the community's identity in the city. Visitors today can sense how important this site was for maintaining Armenian traditions and social bonds in the neighborhood.
The site where the church once stood is easily accessible on foot in the Old Town area, and it makes sense to visit it while exploring nearby Armenian heritage sites. The area around Avlabari Square serves as a helpful landmark for navigating this historic quarter.
A memorial khachkar was placed at the site where the church once stood, serving as a symbol that keeps the Armenian religious tradition alive despite the building's destruction. This carved stone memorial shows how the community continues to honor the place even after loss.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.