Religion in Georgia is one of the anchors that keeps the national identity of this country. Georgia is a small country that is located between Europe and Asia. Not many would think that such a small country could be one of the first countries that chose Christianity as their main religion and maintained it through history, but history says otherwise. Religion is not just a personal belief system here—it is deeply connected with the national identity, daily life, language, and even the architecture of the land. Ancient traditions, passages, and architecture show how Georgia’s spiritual heritage is both rich and resilient.
In this article, we will tell you about the religion of Georgia, as well as its historical roots, diversity, cultural relevance, and the way faith continues to shape life in modern times.
Historical Overview of Religion in Georgia
In historical overview of religion in Georgia we can see that Georgia officially took Christianity as their primary religion in the early 4th century, around 326 AD, making it one of the first countries in the world to convert. This conversion is tied to Saint Nino of Cappadocia, a female evangelist who is said to have performed miracles and played a key role in converting King Mirian III and Queen Nana, who later helped spread the faith and convert Georgia to Christianity. The cross of Saint Nino is even protected in Georgia, and it is free for people to see. The Georgian Orthodox Church has since become central to the country’s national and spiritual life. The autocephalous (self-governing) nature of the church was recognized as early as the 5th century, further strengthening its role in shaping Georgian culture and politics.
Religion in Georgia has faced many challenges, especially from invaders trying to erase it from Georgian culture, but the people of this country managed to maintain it through the centuries.
During the Soviet era, religion was heavily suppressed as an attempt to erase national identity completely. Churches were closed and painted over, clergy were persecuted, and religious practices were completely discouraged. Despite these efforts, faith remained strong in private spaces, and the Georgian Orthodox Church experienced a revival immediately following the collapse of the USSR in 1991.
The Dominant Religion of Georgia
The dominant religion of Georgia is considered Orthodox Christianity. The Georgian Orthodox Church is part of the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. It places emphasis on sacred tradition, saints, and the role of the church as a living community of believers.
And of course, one cannot talk about religion in Georgia without mentioning its magnificent places of worship that were built in Georgia through the centuries. Churches in Georgia are not only spiritual sanctuaries but also architectural masterpieces. From the cave monasteries of Vardzia to the cliff-perched Gergeti Trinity Church and the ancient Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, these buildings reflect centuries of devotion and resilience.
Religious Diversity in Georgia
Although the vast majority of Georgians prefer worshipping the Orthodox Church, Georgia is home to a diverse religious population, creating religious diversity in Georgia. For example, Islam is the second largest religion in Georgia, particularly present in the Adjara region and among ethnic Azerbaijani minorities, as well as in big cities like Tbilisi because of the huge population from Islamic countries. There are also followers of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Catholicism, Judaism, and small communities of Protestants and Yazidis. Georgia’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and Tbilisi, the capital, is home to functioning synagogues, mosques, and various Christian churches of different denominations.
With an increasing number of people seeking residence in Georgia, the role of religion has adapted to a more multicultural reality. Expats, students, and digital nomads find that while the dominant religion in Georgia is Orthodox Christianity, the environment is very tolerant and respectful of other religions that are practiced in Georgia.
Many international residents are fascinated by Georgia’s religious customs and often engage with the local traditions through church visits, festivals, or even spiritual retreats.
The Role of Religion in Georgian Society
For centuries, religion has been closely tied to Georgian national identity. During invasions from nations of other faiths and periods of occupation, the church and religion acted as the only beacon of hope.
In Georgian communities, it’s common to see people cross themselves when passing a church, light candles for their loved ones, and fast during religious seasons. Religion in Georgia influences family life, education, social behavior, and sometimes even political discourse. Pilgrimage remains a strong tradition, with believers traveling to sacred sites like Bodbe Monastery, Mtskheta, or Katskhi Pillar. Monastic life is also alive and well, with monks and nuns living in remote monasteries across the country.
Religion remains important to many young Georgians who were raised in Christian families, although levels of active participation in traditions vary. Church attendance among the young people remains more common during holidays and life milestones such as baptisms, weddings, and funerals.
Religion and the Georgian Language
The Georgian language has played a crucial role in preserving the country’s Christian identity. Religion and the Georgian language go hand in hand since the beginning. The Georgian script itself was developed around the 5th century AD to translate the Bible and other Christian texts. Many religious services are held in old Georgian (Asomtavruli), and church hymns, chants, and scripture readings continue to uphold the connection between faith and language.
Challenges and Controversies on Georgian Religion
Despite its deep-rooted spiritual heritage, religion in Georgia is not without its challenges. One of the most pressing issues is the tension between modern secular values and traditional religious beliefs, especially concerning LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, where the Georgian Orthodox Church often takes a conservative stance. Critics also raise concerns about the Church’s significant influence on political decisions and public policy, which some argue blurs the line between church and state. Additionally, there are ongoing debates about religious freedom and the fair treatment of minority faith groups, who occasionally report discrimination or limited access to religious infrastructure. As Georgia continues to modernize and attract a more diverse population, including foreigners seeking residence in Georgia, the balance between preserving religious identity and embracing pluralism remains a complex and evolving challenge.
Conclusion
Religion in Georgia is not just a historical artifact—it is a living, evolving force that continues to shape identity, politics, and everyday life. Whether one explores the ancient churches in Georgia, listens to sacred hymns in the Georgian language, or finds a spiritual connection while seeking residence in Georgia, it is clear that faith remains deeply embedded in the Georgian soul.
As the country grows more interconnected with the world, it maintains a delicate but inspiring balance between tradition and modernity—and religion remains at the heart of that journey.
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