Easter in Georgia

Arrival in Tbilisi

You’ll start your day with learning more about the Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi. You’ll be able to visit some of its iconic landmarks, such as a 4th century Narikala Fortress, famous sulfur bath neighborhood Abanotubani, the Freedom Square, the oldest Basilica - Anchiskhati, Metekhi Church, walk on pedestrian bridge called the Peace Bridge, and visit Rike Park. You’ll listen to the history of the city, how it came to be and why it’s called Tbilisi.

The day will start with a small introductory speech on the importance of the Maundy Thursday in Christianity. Maundy Thursday falls on Thursday before Easter and commemorates the foot washing and Last Supper. Generally, this day starts with a mass in the Holy Trinity Church conducted by the Catholicos-Patriarch and several other priests. He reads an excerpt from a gospel which talks about 12 apostles receiving an Eucharist. Later, you’ll witness a ceremony where Catholicos-Patriarch washes the feet of 12 priests.

On this day, you’ll learn a bit about the Good Friday, another important day of the Easter weekend, attend the ritual of putting the cross in Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta and participate in a workshop to paint eggs in red color.

On Holy Saturday, you’ll drive to Uplistsikhe, one of the cave-towns of Georgia. The name of this rock-hewn town translates into English as Lord’s Fortress. The area played a significant role in Georgia history and features architectural marvels of different periods including, pre-Christian, Anatolian, and Iranian. Afterward, you’ll drive back to Tbilisi and attend a Easter ceremony in the church.

On this day you’ll get a detailed information about the importance of Easter Sunday in Christian world, as well as hear the traditions Georgian families follow on this day. The mass in the church starts at 12 a.m and continues all night. People go to the church to listen to the prayers and to celebrate the life over death. It’s a custom here to say “Christ Has Risen!” on Easter Sunday to family members, friends, and relatives. The answer to that is “Indeed”. Every family has a special meal cooked to celebrate this important holiday.

Departure