Saint Mary's Day

Saint Mary's Day, known as **Mariamoba** in Georgia, is a significant religious holiday celebrated on **August 28** each year. It honors the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, who holds a special place in Georgian Orthodox Christianity. The day is marked by church services, prayers, and hymns dedicated to the Virgin Mary, emphasizing her role as a protector and intercessor for the faithful. In Georgia, Mariamoba is a public holiday, and many people attend special liturgies held in churches across the country. The Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi, which houses an icon of the Virgin Mary believed to be miraculous, is a focal point for celebrations. Families often gather for festive meals, and traditional Georgian dishes are prepared to mark the occasion. The holiday also reflects Georgia's deep connection to its Christian heritage, as the country was one of the first to adopt Christianity as a state religion in the early 4th century. Saint Mary's Day is not only a religious observance but also a cultural event that strengthens community bonds and celebrates Georgia's spiritual traditions.