Avlabari bridge in Tiflis over river under cloudy sky

The Shia Mosque, Tbilisi

Shia Mosque Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide in Tbilisi, Georgia

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the historic Abanotubani district of Tbilisi, the Jumah Mosque—commonly referred to as the Shia Mosque or Great Mosque of Tbilisi—stands as a testament to centuries of religious coexistence and architectural evolution. Unique for its shared use by both Sunni and Shia Muslim communities, the mosque embodies the multicultural harmony and resilience that define Georgia’s capital. This guide provides in-depth historical background, architectural highlights, practical visiting details, and travel tips for anyone planning to experience this iconic site.

Shiite mosque in Maidan with traditional Islamic architecture and minaret

Avlabar Bridge in Tbilisi in the 1870s, historic black and white photo

Avlabar Bridge in Tbilisi with cityscape background

Avlabar Bridge over the Kura River in Tbilisi, Georgia

Avlabar Bridge in Tbilisi, Georgia over the Kura River

Avlabari Bridge over the Kura River in Tbilisi, Georgia at sunset

Historic Metekhi Church in Tbilisi, Georgia, urban architecture and street scenes

View of Tiflis featuring the bridge at Maidan Square, the Tatar mosque and fortress ruins

Old Tiflis cityscape with fortress and Kura River view

An old part of the town viewed from Metekhi Castle in 1900

Maidan Square and Metekhi Church in Tbilisi, Georgia, vintage photo from 1896

Tatar mosque and bridge on Maidan square in Tiflis, Russian Empire postcard

Historic view of Tbilisi cityscape with traditional architecture by Ermakov

Historic view of Tbilisi city with traditional architecture by Ermakov

Historic view of Tbilisi, capital of Georgia, captured by Ermakov

Historic view of Tbilisi city with traditional architecture and river

Old Tbilisi Bazaar bustling street scene with traditional market stalls and people

Panoramic view of Tiflis (Tbilisi) cityscape from Saint David Church grounds

Metekhi Church and Bazaar in Tbilisi with old city architecture

View of Metekhski Prison in Tiflis from Avlabar Bridge

Metekhski Prison viewed from Avlabar Bridge in Tiflis

Metekhski prison viewed from Avlabar Bridge in Tiflis (Tbilisi)

Minaret of the Shia mosque, Maidan bridge, and Transcaucasian Muslim Spiritual Administration building in Tbilisi, Georgia

19th century Tbilisi cityscape with historic buildings and landscape

Panoramic view of Tiflis (now Tbilisi), Georgia, 1891, showing two superimposed views of the city

Early color photograph of Tbilisi, Georgia, showcasing the cityscape in the early 1900s with historic buildings and streets

Historic view of Maidan Square in Tiflis with people gathered and old buildings

Historical Azerbaijanian mosque and bridge in Tiflis (now Tbilisi) before mosque destruction in 1952

Azerbaijanian mosque in Tbilisi with traditional architecture

Historical mosque at a square in Tbilisi with part of the Sololaki suburb in the background

Historical mosque at the square in Tbilisi with part of the Sololaki suburb in the background, 1870s

General view of Tbilisi city in 1890-1910

Tbilisi cityscape in the 19th century showing Metekhi plateau with the cupola of the 18th century Armenian Church of the Red Gospel in Havlabari district

Historic Tatar Bazaar in Tiflis bustling with vendors and shoppers

19th-century vintage postcard of Tbilisi cityscape

Tiflis cityscape in the 1870s with historic buildings and landscape

Historical photo of Tiflis city in the 1870s showing old buildings and streets

Meidan square in old Tbilisi with historical buildings and street view

Historical town and fortress in Tiflis, Russia (now Tbilisi, Georgia)

Early 1900s color photograph of Tbilisi, Georgia by Sergei Mikhailovich Prokudin-Gorskii showing city view with buildings and river

Old Turkish baths and historic bridge over Tsavkisistskali river in Tiflis captured on old photo plate by Pola Nadar

Early Muslim Presence in Tbilisi
Construction and Legacy of the Shia Mosque
Ottoman and Persian Influences
19th-Century Rebuilding and Evolution
Demolition and Modern Shared Use
Visiting Hours and Ticket Info
Accessibility and Etiquette
Architectural Features
Nearby Attractions
Community Engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
Sources

Early Muslim Presence in Tbilisi

Islamic history in Tbilisi dates back to the early eighth century, when Arab forces established a foothold in the city. Over time, the Muslim presence diversified, with both Sunni and Shia populations building religious and cultural institutions. Mosques became integral to the city’s landscape, reflecting Tbilisi’s position at the crossroads of empires and faiths (Atinati; Georgia Travel).

Construction and Legacy of the Shia Mosque

One of the most significant mosques was the original Shia Mosque, built under the patronage of Shah Ismail I of Iran during his occupation (1522–1524). Known for its glazed tiles and impressive size, this mosque became a spiritual and architectural landmark, symbolizing the Safavid Empire’s influence and the enduring presence of Shia Islam in the Caucasus (Atinati; Georgia Travel; New Statesman).

Ottoman and Persian Influences

The 18th century saw Tbilisi oscillate between Ottoman and Persian control. The Ottomans built a Sunni mosque during their rule (1723–1735), only for it to be destroyed by the Persians in the 1740s. These shifts reflected ongoing sectarian and imperial rivalries, leaving lasting marks on Tbilisi’s religious architecture (Atinati; Advantour).

19th-Century Rebuilding and Evolution

In the mid-19th century, the Sunni mosque was rebuilt under architect Giovanni Scudieri, blending neo-Gothic with Islamic motifs. The mosque’s current form, established in the 1890s with support from philanthropist Zeynalabdin Taghiyev, features a red-brick façade, checkered dome, and its iconic eight-sided minaret. This design harmonizes with Tbilisi’s historic architecture while celebrating Islamic artistry (Advantour; Georgian Holidays).

Demolition and Modern Shared Use

A turning point came in 1950, when the original Shia Mosque was demolished during the construction of the Metekhi Bridge. In a remarkable gesture, the Sunni congregation invited Shia worshippers to join them at the Jumah Mosque. Since then, this site has been shared by both communities, making it a global symbol of religious tolerance and unity (Atlas Obscura; Georgia Travel; Georgian Holidays).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Opening Hours: Daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Travejar).
Entry Fee: Free for all visitors; donations are welcome.
Guided Tours: Not officially provided, but local operators include the mosque in walking tours, offering historical context (Travejar).
Best Times: Avoid visiting during Friday prayers and religious holidays due to large congregations.

Accessibility and Etiquette

Getting There

Location: 32 Botanical Street, Abanotubani district, close to Narikala Fortress and Tbilisi Botanical Garden.
Access: Easily reached by metro (Avlabari station), bus, taxi, or on foot from Old Town.

Accessibility

The mosque precinct features paved paths; interior access may be limited for wheelchairs due to traditional architecture.

Dress Code and Etiquette

Women: Modest clothing covering arms and legs; hair covering (scarf) required (Blue Mosque Guide; Mad Traveller).
Men: Long pants and sleeved shirts; no shorts or tank tops.
Shoes: Remove before entering prayer areas.
Behavior: Maintain quiet, especially during prayers; ask before photographing inside; avoid main hall during services (The Invisible Tourist).

Architectural Features

Exterior

Distinctive red brickwork with geometric patterns, pointed horseshoe arch entrance, and tall pointed windows.
The eight-sided minaret, topped with an onion-shaped dome, is a city landmark (Atlas Obscura; Caucasus Edition).

Interior

Spacious prayer hall with traditional carpets and subdued wall colors.
Mihrab with calligraphic tilework; slender columns supporting the roof.
Decor includes Quranic calligraphy and stained glass, blending Persian and Georgian styles (Georgia Travel; Culture Trip).

Restoration

Major restorations in 1998 and ongoing efforts focus on brickwork, calligraphy, and stained glass preservation (UNESCO).

Nearby Attractions

Narikala Fortress: Offers sweeping city views.
Sulfur Baths: Historic bathhouses reflecting Tbilisi’s multicultural history.
Tbilisi Botanical Garden: Ideal for a tranquil walk.
Old Town: Explore winding streets and the multifaith heritage of Tbilisi.
Other Religious Sites: Armenian Cathedral of St. George, Great Synagogue, and numerous Orthodox churches highlight Tbilisi’s diversity (Advantour).

Community Engagement and Contemporary Relevance

The mosque is a vibrant community hub, hosting daily prayers, Islamic festivals like Eid, and interfaith events (WellMed Charitable Foundation TripKit).
It symbolizes peaceful coexistence, with both Sunni and Shia worshippers sharing a unified prayer space without division (Eurasianet).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the mosque’s visiting hours?
A: Generally 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily; avoid Friday prayer times.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free; donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not officially, but many local tours include the mosque.

Q: Is the mosque wheelchair accessible?
A: Exterior areas are accessible; interior access may be limited due to steps and narrow passageways.

Q: What is the dress code?
A: Modest attire required; women should cover hair, men should wear long pants and sleeves.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Yes, but ask permission and avoid flash or photography during prayers.

Summary and Final Tips

The Jumah Mosque in Tbilisi is more than a religious building—it is a living symbol of Georgia’s commitment to religious tolerance, cultural resilience, and interfaith unity. From its Safavid origins and Ottoman influences to its survival through demolition and Soviet repression, the mosque’s story mirrors the dynamic history of the region (Atinati; New Statesman; Atlas Obscura; Eurasianet).

Travelers are welcomed to experience this unique atmosphere, explore the mosque’s distinctive architecture, and combine their visit with nearby historical sites for an enriching cultural journey (Advantour; Travejar). Prepare by dressing appropriately, respecting customs, and learning a few local greetings. For further details, guided tours, and event updates, download the Audiala app and follow Audiala on social media.

Visuals and Interactive Resources

Image Suggestion: The iconic eight-sided minaret of the Jumah Mosque in Tbilisi’s historic Abanotubani district (alt text: “Jumah Mosque eight-sided minaret Tbilisi”).
Interactive Map: Highlighting the mosque, Narikala Fortress, and nearby attractions.
Photo Gallery: Featuring mosque façade, prayer hall, brickwork, and stained glass with descriptive alt text.
Virtual Tours: Accessible via official tourism websites.