Saints Peter and Paul Church

About this activity

Saints Peter and Paul Church

Overview

Located in the historical Chugureti district of Tbilisi, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul stands as a significant spiritual center for Georgia’s Roman Catholic community and a notable architectural landmark in the capital city. Situated on Ivane Javakhishvili Street, this imposing edifice is distinct from the traditional Georgian Orthodox churches that dominate the country’s religious landscape, showcasing instead a grand European architectural style.

The church’s origins trace back to the latter half of the 19th century, a period of relative growth and stability under the Russian Empire, which allowed for the flourishing of diverse communities within Tbilisi, including a significant Catholic population comprising Georgians, Armenians, Poles, Germans, and others. Recognizing the need for a larger place of worship, the construction of the Saints Peter and Paul Church was financed by Konstantine Zubalashvili, a prominent Georgian Catholic businessman and philanthropist known for supporting various cultural and charitable projects. Designed by the German-born architect Albert Salzmann, who worked extensively in Tbilisi, the church was built between 1870 and 1877, although sources vary slightly on the exact consecration date.

Its construction provided a dedicated and impressive space for Catholic liturgy and community life. Throughout its history, the church has served as a vital hub for Catholics in the Caucasus region. It managed to survive the Soviet era, a challenging period for religious institutions, though its activities were undoubtedly restricted. Following Georgia’s independence, the church underwent restorations and regained its prominence as a fully active place of worship. A particularly significant event in its modern history was the visit of Pope John Paul II to Tbilisi in 1999, during which he celebrated Mass within this church, underscoring its importance.

Today, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul is not just a historical building but a vibrant center of faith, administered by the Apostolic Administration of the Caucasus. It regularly holds services in multiple languages, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of Tbilisi’s Catholic congregation, and welcomes visitors interested in its history, architecture, or simply seeking a place for prayer and reflection.

Basic Identification

• Full Name: The Church of Saints Peter and Paul (Roman Catholic). In Georgian: წმინდა პეტრესა და პავლეს კათოლიკური ეკლესია (Tsminda Petresa da Pavles Katolikuri Eklesia).
• Type: Church (Roman Catholic).
• Location: 55 Ivane Javakhishvili Street, Chugureti District, Tbilisi, Georgia. It’s located north of the Kura (Mtkvari) River, relatively close to Marjanishvili Square and Marjanishvili Theatre.

Historical Background

• Founding: Construction started in 1870 and was largely completed by 1877. It was commissioned and funded by the Georgian Catholic philanthropist Konstantine Zubalashvili. The architect was Albert Salzmann. Some sources mention later dates for final consecration (e.g., 1884 or 1898), suggesting potential delays or phased completion/interior work.
• Key Dates & Events:

• 1870-1877: Main construction period.
• Late 19th Century: Became a central place of worship for Tbilisi’s growing Catholic community.
• Soviet Period (approx. 1921-1991): Survived closure, though religious practice was heavily suppressed.
• 1999 (November): Pope John Paul II visited Georgia and celebrated Mass in this church.
• Post-Soviet Era: Renovations and revitalization of parish life.

• Historical Figures: Konstantine Zubalashvili (sponsor), Albert Salzmann (architect), Pope John Paul II (visitor).
• Legends: Being a relatively modern structure (19th century), it is not typically associated with ancient legends or miracles in the way older Orthodox sites might be.

Significance and Purpose

• Religious Importance: A primary center for the Roman Catholic faith in Tbilisi and Georgia. It serves the Apostolic Administration of the Caucasus. It holds regular Masses and sacraments. Patron Saints are St. Peter and St. Paul.
• Cultural Importance: Represents the history and presence of the Catholic community in Georgia’s diverse capital. It stands as a significant piece of 19th-century Tbilisi architecture.
• Architectural Importance: Designed in a Baroque or Neo-Baroque style with Neoclassical elements, contrasting with traditional Georgian church architecture. It’s considered one of Albert Salzmann’s important works in Tbilisi.
• Current Status: An active Roman Catholic parish church.

Architectural and Artistic Description

• Exterior: The church is built primarily of brick and presents an imposing facade facing Javakhishvili Street. It features a large central dome raised on a high drum with windows. The symmetrical facade is marked by Corinthian pilasters, arched windows, decorative cornices, and niches intended for statues (likely depicting Saints Peter and Paul, though they might not always be present or could be later additions). The entrance is prominent, often featuring steps leading up to it. While not having massive separate bell towers, the vertical elements of the facade contribute to its monumental appearance.
• Interior: The interior typically follows a basilica plan with a nave and aisles separated by columns or piers, leading to the main altar in the apse. The space under the large dome creates a sense of height and openness. The interior is often described as ornate, featuring religious paintings, possibly stained glass (though sometimes replaced with plain glass), traditional Catholic statuary, and a decorated altar area.
• Artworks: Includes interior paintings (murals or canvas), the main altar design, religious statues, and potentially decorative elements on the dome’s interior or pendentives.
• Complex: The main building is the church itself. There may be adjacent or nearby buildings serving as the parish office, rectory, or community hall, typical for an active parish.

Practical Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: The church is generally open for private prayer during the day, typically from morning until evening, outside of scheduled service times. However, specific hours can vary.
• Admission Fees: Entry is free. Donations are welcome to support the church’s upkeep and ministry.
• Accessibility: As a historic building, accessibility may be limited. Expect steps at the main entrance. Ramps or other accommodations for visitors with mobility issues might not be available; it’s advisable to inquire beforehand if needed.
• Rules and Etiquette:

• Dress Code: Visitors should dress respectfully. While Catholic churches might be less strict than Georgian Orthodox ones (e.g., headscarves for women are not usually mandatory), modest attire covering shoulders and knees is appropriate and appreciated. Men are expected to remove hats.
• Photography/Videography: Usually permitted for personal use when services are not in progress, but using flash is often discouraged or forbidden. Always be respectful of worshippers and the sacred space. Check for any posted signs regarding photography rules.
• Behavior: Maintain a quiet and reverent atmosphere. Silence mobile phones. Avoid loud conversations, especially if people are praying.

• Facilities: Restrooms may be available, potentially in an adjacent parish building; inquire if needed. There isn’t typically a large gift shop or cafe directly attached, though religious items might be available through the parish office.
• Service Times: Mass is celebrated regularly. Schedules often include daily Mass and multiple Masses on Sundays and Holy Days. Services are known to be held in various languages, including Georgian, Russian, English, and sometimes Latin or Armenian, reflecting the diverse community. It is best to check the current schedule, which may be posted at the church entrance or found online through Catholic community resources in Tbilisi.