The Kashueti St. George Church (Georgian: ქაშვეთის წმინდა გიორგის სახელობის ტაძარი) is a prominent Georgian Orthodox church located in the very heart of Tbilisi, directly opposite the Parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue. While it might appear to be an ancient structure, it is actually a relatively modern reconstruction, though it stands on a site with centuries of religious significance.

Historical Significance and Legend:

Ancient Roots, Modern Structure: The current church was built between 1904 and 1910. However, the site’s spiritual importance dates back to the 6th century, where a much older church is believed to have stood.
The “Stone Birth” Legend: The name “Kashueti” is derived from two Georgian words: “kva” (stone) and “shva” (to give birth). This unusual name is tied to a popular legend involving the 6th-century monk David of Gareja (one of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers who spread Christianity in Georgia). According to the story, a woman falsely accused him of impregnating her. David prophesied that if he were innocent, she would give birth to a stone, and indeed, she did. The church was later built on this very spot, commemorating the miracle.
Predecessor Churches: Before the current structure, a brick church, commissioned by the noble Amilakhvari family, stood on the site from 1753. This earlier church eventually deteriorated, leading to the decision to build the grander structure we see today.
Soviet Era Preservation: During the Soviet period, when many churches were destroyed or repurposed, Kashueti narrowly escaped demolition thanks to the efforts of notable figures, including stone carver Neophyte Agladze and artist Gigo Gabashvili.

Architectural Style and Features:

Neo-Georgian Style: Designed by the German architect Leopold Bilfeldt, Kashueti Church is a significant example of the “Neo-Georgian” architectural style. Bilfeldt drew inspiration from the medieval Samtavisi Cathedral, an 11th-century masterpiece located outside Tbilisi. This design choice gives the relatively new church a deeply traditional and authentically Georgian aesthetic.
Cross-Dome Structure: It follows the traditional Georgian cross-dome (or cross-in-square) plan, characterized by a central dome rising above a cruciform base.
Rich Ornamentation: The exterior of Kashueti is notable for its rich and intricate stone carvings. These ornate designs, especially around windows, arches, and corners, are a highlight of the church’s craftsmanship, with significant contributions from local master stone carvers like the Agladze brothers.
Frescoes by Lado Gudiashvili: The interior of the church is adorned with striking frescoes painted in 1947 by the celebrated Georgian artist Lado Gudiashvili. His work is known for its expressive emotion and bold departure from strict traditional iconography, which reportedly caused some controversy at the time but is now highly admired. Key depictions include the Virgin Mary and Child, the Last Supper, and the Annunciation. A statue of Gudiashvili stands in the church garden.
Two Levels: Unusually for Georgian churches, Kashueti has two levels, effectively functioning as two separate churches. The upper level is the main church dedicated to St. George, while the lower (underground) level was consecrated for other purposes and later to St. Margaret of Antioch.
Dimensions: The church is approximately 27.75 meters high, 23 meters long, and 18.75 meters wide.

Location and Visiting Information:

Central Location: Kashueti Church holds a very prominent position in central Tbilisi, situated on Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s main thoroughfare. Its location makes it easily accessible and visible amidst modern buildings. It’s close to the Parliament of Georgia, the Georgian Museum of Fine Arts, and the National Gallery.
Open to Visitors: The church is an active place of worship.
Dress Code: As with all Orthodox churches in Georgia, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Women should cover their heads with a scarf (often available at the entrance), and both men and women should avoid shorts or overly revealing attire.

Kashueti St. George Church, with its blend of historical legend, traditional design, and modern artistic expression, stands as a significant spiritual and architectural landmark in Tbilisi’s vibrant city center.