Norashen Armenian Church (Norashen)

The Norashen Armenian Church is on Samghebro Street in Old Tbilisi, Georgia, near the Sioni Cathedral and the Great Synagogue. The name Norashen means 'newly built' in Armenian. The church belongs to the tradition of the Armenian Apostolic Church, and the Armenian community was historically one of the largest in Tbilisi, forming much of its merchant and artisan class during the Ottoman, Persian and Russian periods. The building is traditionally dated to the 18th century, and it is a compact structure of stone with a gabled roof, a small dome and the typical Armenian conical drum. Next to it stands a small bell tower. The interior is simple, with candles, icons and decorations in the Armenian style. During the Soviet period many Armenian churches in Tbilisi were closed or lost their congregations, and Norashen was affected by this decline. After independence the church was reopened and repaired, and in recent years it has been connected to disputes over the ownership and restoration of Armenian churches in Georgia, a matter that appears from time to time in the local news. The church stands in a quiet courtyard and is reached by a narrow street. A visit offers a short, peaceful contrast to the busy lanes nearby, and it makes a good stop between Sioni Cathedral and the Leselidze Street area. Visitors should dress modestly. Opening depends on services, and sightseeing is not possible while they are held. The church is free to enter, and donations toward its upkeep are customary.