Urbnisi Sioni was a place where pivotal events in Georgian history took place, including the Ruisi-Urbnisi Church Council convened by David the Builder in 1103. With its architectural grandeur, historical depth, and epigraphic treasures, Urbnisi Sioni remains one of Georgia’s most revered and impressive cultural heritage monuments today.

Fundamental Identification

• Official Name: Urbnisi Sioni Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God
• Type: Three-nave basilica, Cathedral
• Location: Village of Urbnisi, Kareli Municipality, Shida Kartli region, Georgia.
• Status: Active cathedral; Immovable Cultural Monument of National Significance; part of the Urbnisi Historical-Architectural Museum-Reserve.

Historical Context

• Early Period (5th-6th centuries): The construction period of the main part of the cathedral. An inscription on the north facade informs us of the builders’ names – Konstanti and Father Mikel. This period coincides with the flourishing of Urbnisi as one of the most important cities of the Kingdom of Kartli.
• Developed Middle Ages (10th century): The cathedral underwent a significant reconstruction. An inscription on the tympanum of the south entrance tells us the name of the architect, Tevdore, who renovated the cathedral.
• Era of David the Builder (1103): The cathedral, along with the Ruisi Cathedral, became the site of a turning point in Georgian history – the Ruisi-Urbnisi Church Council, which aimed to reform the church and strengthen the central royal authority.
• Late Period (17th-18th centuries): The cathedral was renovated again, and the surrounding fortress wall was strengthened, especially during the reign of King Erekle II.

Significance and Purpose

• Historical-Religious Significance: One of the oldest centers of Georgian Christianity and the seat of the historic Eparchy of Urbnisi. The site of the most important council in the history of the Georgian Church.
• Epigraphic Significance: The 5th-6th century construction inscriptions are among the oldest and most important examples of the Georgian Asomtavruli script, providing invaluable material for the study of the history of the Georgian language and writing.
• Architectural Significance: It is a classic and one of the most large-scale examples of an early medieval Georgian monumental basilica, which had a great influence on the architecture of subsequent periods.

Description of Architecture and Art

• Plan: The cathedral is a grand, rectangular three-nave basilica. The central nave, which ends in a deep, horseshoe-shaped apse to the east, significantly surpasses the side naves in size. The naves are separated from each other by massive cruciform pillars.
• Facades: Built of well-hewn sandstone blocks. They are characterized by a simple, ascetic appearance typical of the early period. Decorative accents are minimal and are mainly concentrated on the 10th-century south portal. The main decorative and historical elements are the ancient inscriptions located on the facades.
• Interior: The inner space, with its scale and rows of pillars, creates a monumental and impressive sight. The original frescoes have not survived, but fragments of later period paintings are visible.
• The Complex: The cathedral is situated within a fortress wall that bears traces of an 18th-century reconstruction. The complex also includes a later-period bell tower.

Useful Visitor Information

• Location and Access: Urbnisi is located near the main East-West highway, a few kilometers from Kareli. Reaching the cathedral is very easy with any type of vehicle.
• What to Expect: This is an active, magnificent cathedral within a historic fortress. The archaeological site and museum of the ancient city of Urbnisi are also nearby, making a visit even more interesting.
• Accessibility: The cathedral courtyard and grounds are on flat terrain and are easily accessible.
• Admission and Hours: Admission to the cathedral is free. As an active church, it is open daily. There may be a fee to visit the archaeological museum-reserve.
• Rules and Recommendations: As this is an ancient and active place of worship, modest dress is required (head covering for women, long trousers for men). Please be respectful of services and worshippers.