Known for
The Metekhi courtyard looking onto the baths, Sameba cathedral on Elia Hill, and the quiet streets of the old Armenian quarter.
Metekhi, Sameba and the view back
Avlabari
ავლაბარი
Metekhis Agmarti, Avlabari Square, Samreklo
Avlabari looks at the Old Town from the cliff on the left bank. In the Metekhi courtyard, by the equestrian statue of Gorgasali, you see the bath domes and the Narikala ridge. The streets then climb Elia Hill to the gold dome of Sameba, the cathedral built between 1995 and 2004. Behind the cliff the quarter is quiet and lived in. Historically this is the Armenian part of the city, with its own cathedral.
Why go
Come for sunset. First the Metekhi courtyard, then the climb to Sameba while the dome still has light on it. The Bridge of Peace and Rike Park are the embankment at the water, not the quarter itself. Cross them at dusk on the way.
Where to stay
For a second visit, or for anyone who wants quiet and the metro. Liberty Square is one stop away. There are fewer restaurants at the door than on the right bank: dinner is often across the river.
Local guide
Fedor Samorodov · guide
The Metekhi courtyard is the view across to the baths. Sameba is higher, on Elia Hill, and worth the walk up before sunset. The cable car to Narikala leaves from Rike Park, by the river, not from the metro.