Saints Peter and Paul Church

The Church of Saints Peter and Paul, a prominent architectural landmark in the capital city of Georgia and a major spiritual hub for the country’s Roman Catholic community, is situated in the historic Chugureti neighborhood of Tbilisi. Located on Ivane Javakhishvili Street, this imposing structure features a grand European architectural style that contrasts with the traditional Georgian Orthodox churches that predominate in the nation’s religious landscape.

Historical Context

During the latter half of the 19th century, when the Russian Empire was relatively stable and growing, a number of diverse communities flourished in Tbilisi, including a sizable Catholic population made up of Georgians, Armenians, Poles, Germans, and others. This is when the church first emerged. Konstantine Zubalashvili, a well-known Georgian Catholic businessman and philanthropist who has supported numerous cultural and charitable endeavors, recognized the need for a larger place of worship and provided funding for the construction of the Saints Peter and Paul Church. Although there is some disagreement among sources regarding the precise date of consecration, the church was constructed between 1870 and 1877 and was designed by German-born architect Albert Salzmann, who worked extensively in Tbilisi.

Its construction gave the Catholic liturgy and community life a dedicated and magnificent space. The church has been an important gathering place for Catholics in the Caucasus throughout its history. Even though its operations were obviously limited, it survived the Soviet era, which was a difficult time for religious organizations. The church was restored after Georgia gained its independence, and it once again became a prominent and active place of worship. Pope John Paul II’s 1999 visit to Tbilisi, when he celebrated Mass inside the church, was a particularly noteworthy occasion in its modern history and highlighted its significance.

Current Status and Significance

The Church of Saints Peter and Paul, which is run by the Apostolic Administration of the Caucasus, is not only a historic structure but also a thriving religious hub today. It welcomes guests interested in its history, architecture, or just looking for a place to pray and think. It frequently hosts services in a variety of languages, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of Tbilisi’s Catholic congregation.

Fundamental 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: Roman Catholic Church.
• Location: 55 Ivane Javakhishvili Street, Chugureti District, Tbilisi, Georgia. It is situated near Marjanishvili Square and Marjanishvili Theatre, to the north of the Kura (Mtkvari) River.

Detailed Historical Context

• Founding: Work began in 1870 and was mostly finished by 1877. Commissioned and funded by Konstantine Zubalashvili, a Georgian Catholic philanthropist. Albert Salzmann was the architect. Some sources suggest possible delays or phased completion/interior work by mentioning later dates for final consecration (e.g., 1884 or 1898).

Important Dates and Occasions:

• 1870–1877: The main building period.
• Late 19th century: Developed into a focal point for the expanding Catholic community in Tbilisi.
• Soviet Period (roughly 1921–1991): Saw closure, though religious practice was severely suppressed.
• November 1999: Pope John Paul II visited Georgia and celebrated Mass in this church.
• Post-Soviet Era: Parish life was revitalized and renovated.

Historical figures: Include Pope John Paul II (visitor), architect Albert Salzmann, and sponsor Konstantine Zubalashvili.

Legends: Unlike older Orthodox sites, this structure is relatively modern (19th century), so it is not usually connected to ancient legends or miracles.

Significance and Objective

• Religious Significance: Tbilisi and Georgia’s main hub for Roman Catholicism. It supports the Caucasus Apostolic Administration. Regular Masses and sacraments are held there. St. Paul and St. Peter are patron saints.
• Cultural Significance: Reflects the heritage and existence of the Catholic community in the multicultural metropolis of Georgia. It is a noteworthy example of Tbilisi architecture from the 19th century.
• Architectural Significance: In contrast to traditional Georgian church architecture, it was designed in a Baroque or Neo-Baroque style with Neoclassical elements. In Tbilisi, it is regarded as one of Albert Salzmann’s most significant works.
• Present Situation: A functioning parish church of Roman Catholicism.

Description of Architecture and Art

• Exterior: The church faces Javakhishvili Street and has a commanding facade made mostly of brick. It has a big central dome that is elevated on a tall, windowed drum. Corinthian pilasters, arched windows, ornamental cornices, and niches for statues—likely of Saints Peter and Paul, though they may not always be present or may have been added later—mark the symmetrical facade. The entrance is noticeable and frequently has steps leading up to it. The facade’s vertical features add to its monumental appearance even though it lacks large, independent bell towers.
• Interior: The main altar is located in the apse, and the interior usually has a basilica layout with a nave and aisles divided by piers or columns. A feeling of height and openness is produced by the area beneath the large dome. The interior is frequently characterized as elaborate, with traditional Catholic statues, religious paintings, a decorated altar area, and possibly stained glass (though plain glass is occasionally used in its place).
• Artworks: Contains religious statues, the main altar design, interior paintings (canvas or murals), and possibly ornamental pendentives or interior dome elements.
• Complex: The church itself serves as the primary structure. As is common in an active parish, there may be buildings close by that serve as the community hall, rectory, or parish office.

Useful Information for Visitors

• Opening Times: Outside of scheduled service times, the church is usually open for private prayer throughout the day, usually from morning until evening. But certain hours can change.
• Admission Fee: There is no admission fee. Donations are accepted to help fund the ministry and maintenance of the church.
• Accessibility: Due to its historic status, the building may not be easily accessible. There will be steps at the main entrance. It’s best to check in advance to see if ramps or other accommodations for guests with mobility impairments are available.

Guidelines and Protocols:

• Dress Code: Respectful attire is required of guests. Even though Catholic churches may not be as rigid as Georgian Orthodox ones (for example, women are typically not required to wear headscarves), modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is still acceptable and valued. Hat removal is expected of men.
• Photography and Videography: While flash is frequently discouraged or prohibited, photography and videography are typically allowed for personal use when services are not in progress. Respect worshippers and the sacred area at all times. Look for any signs stating the rules of photography.
• Conduct: Preserve a calm and respectful environment. Turn off your cell phone. Steer clear of loud chatter, particularly when someone is praying.
• Facilities: If necessary, ask if there are restrooms available, possibly in a nearby parish building. Although religious items may be available through the parish office, there is usually no large gift shop or cafe directly attached.
• Service Hours: Mass is frequently celebrated. Daily Masses as well as several Masses on Sundays and Holy Days are frequently included in schedules. As a reflection of the diverse community, services are known to be held in a number of languages, including English, Russian, Georgian, and occasionally Latin or Armenian. It is best to check the current schedule, which can be found online through Tbilisi’s Catholic community resources or displayed at the church entrance.