An exhibition titled “Patriarch Ilia II” dedicated to the many years of spiritual, public, and national service of His Holiness and Beatitude Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II, was opened today at the exhibition pavilion of the National Archives of Georgia by the Minister of Justice of Georgia, Paata Salia.

The exhibition reflects the Patriarch’s multifaceted activities: the revival of the Church, the development of theological education, as well as his cultural, educational, and public work.

The exhibition pavilion features two vestments temporarily transferred from the Patriarchate of Georgia to the National Archives for display. One of them was worn by Ilia II on the day of his enthronement, December 25, 1977; also exhibited is the patriarchal mantle that Ilia II wore during religious services throughout his life. On the opening day of the exhibition, crosses belonging to the Patriarchs of Georgia - Ephrem II and Ilia II - were also displayed in the hall.

One of the exhibition’s important themes is the long-standing relationship between the National Archives of Georgia and the Patriarch. Ilia II visited the National Archives three times. With his blessing, one of the most important Georgian manuscripts - the Anchi Gospel (12th century) - was restored in 2006. This relationship clearly demonstrates his special commitment to the protection and study of national heritage.

The exhibition presents materials preserved in the National Archives of Georgia and in private family archives, as well as works by renowned Georgian photographers - Ramaz Natsvlishvili, Yuri Mechitov, Goga Chanadiri, Davit Khizanishvili, Luarsab Togonidze, Gigla Benashvili, Badri and Irakli Vadachkoria, Beso Guliashvili, Giorgi Abdaladze, and Giorgi Meurmishvili.

Part of the photographic material will be shown to the public for the first time.

The exhibition aims to once again remind the public of the Patriarch’s exceptional role in the spiritual, cultural, and public life of Georgia.

The General Director of the National Archives, Teona Iashvili, and historian Sergo Vardosanidze spoke about the Patriarch’s legacy and the exhibition dedicated to His Holiness. The opening ceremony was also attended by deputy ministers of justice, representatives of educational and cultural institutions, and other invited guests. Hymns were performed at the event by the choir of the Patriarch’s godchildren.

The exhibition will remain on display at the National Archives exhibition pavilion until the end of May.

Admission is free.