Alright, look to your right and you'll spot an intriguing brick structure that might seem unassuming at first glance. What you're seeing is the ancient Atashgah, standing tall with its aged brick walls and a sleek, protective curved perspex roof that almost seems to hover above it.
The Atashgah, also known as the Ateshgah, comes from the Persian word for "fire temple." It's a historic Zoroastrian fire temple, hailing from a time when Georgia was part of the Persian Empire back in the Sasanian era, which spanned from 224 to 651 AD. Quite a blast from the past, eh?
This incredible gem is famously known as the "northernmost Zoroastrian fire-temple in the world." You’re about 100 meters east of the Holy Mother of God Church of Bethlehem, nestled on the Old Town slopes, northeast of the Mother Georgia statue. This brick building has been through a lot! Although camouflaged over the years, it has withstood the test of time to preserve its essence and remains one of the oldest religious buildings in Tbilisi.
Its history is vast and dynamic. During the conflicts between the Persians and Turkish Muslims, Tbilisi fell under Turkish control, and this temple was temporarily converted into a mosque. The site's significance hasn't gone unnoticed; it's inscribed on Georgia’s list of Monuments of National Significance. In 2007, even the Norwegian government recognized its value and joined efforts to restore it.
So, there you have it! A little slice of ancient history right here in Tbilisi. Now, on to our next adventure!
