Excursion: Tracing Armenian Heritage in Tbilisi

On May 24, 2026, students from the Armenian History group of the Armenian Relief Society’s Akhalkalaki Youth Center visited Tbilisi on an educational excursion aimed at exploring the city’s picturesque landmarks and discovering its Armenian heritage. Led by the center’s director, Karine Tadevosyan, the tour in the capital of Georgia began at the Cathedral of Saint George of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia, where the group attended the Sunday Divine Liturgy. Joining the visitors during the tour, Levon Chidilyan, an Armenian public figure from Georgia, introduced them to the history of the cathedral, showed them the grave of Sayat-Nova located in the church courtyard, and spoke about the traditional “Vardaton” celebration held in honor of the renowned bard’s memory.

One of the most memorable stops for the participants was the Khojivank Pantheon of Armenian Writers and Public Figures in Tbilisi. The young visitors approached each grave with reverence, carefully reading the well-known surnames of those buried in the pantheon.

As a meaningful coincidence, after visiting the Saint Etchmiadzin Church in Avlabari and learning about the activities of the “Hayartun” Center, the young visitors attended a screening of a documentary dedicated to former Tbilisi Mayor Alexander Khatisov. Part of the “Our Greats” series, the film offered an insightful look into the deep Armenian roots embedded in Tbilisi’s history.

The day, filled with impressions, concluded at the Diocesan “Hovhannes Tumanyan House” Cultural and Educational Center. Here, the guests were introduced to the Tbilisi years of the great poet from Lori, as well as his creative work and active public life.

The excursion titled “Tracing Armenian Heritage in Tbilisi,” organized by the Akhalkalaki Youth Center, came to an end with warm words of gratitude.

Press Department of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia