Anchiskhati Basilica (Anchiskhati)

The Anchiskhati Basilica, in Ioane Shavteli Lane off Shavteli Street in Old Tbilisi, is the oldest surviving church in the city, with origins in the sixth century. It takes its name from the icon of the Saviour from the Anchi monastery in southwest Georgia, which was moved here in 1675 to protect it from invaders. The church is a small three-nave basilica built in brick and stone, with a pitched roof and a separate bell tower dating from the eighteenth century. It was restored in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and has been used for services again since Georgia's independence. Inside, visitors find a quiet, dark interior with painted icons, a carved iconostasis and a chapel, and the Georgian chant sung at services is often a highlight. The church serves as a working parish, so visitors should dress modestly, with women covering their heads and shoulders and men removing hats. A typical stop lasts about 30 minutes. The basilica sits directly beside the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre and its clock tower, and the small courtyard and lane around it hold cafes, galleries and craft shops. It is about five minutes on foot from Freedom Square and ten from the sulfur baths. Mid-morning is the best time to visit, since morning and evening services limit sightseeing and a choir may be rehearsing. The church is free and visitors can light candles for a small donation. The lane is narrow, so tour groups can make it feel crowded at midday, and early morning gives the calmest atmosphere. A short walk leads to the Sioni Cathedral and the Jumah Mosque, so the three together give a good picture of the Old Town's religious heritage.