Diplomatic relations between Georgia and the Holy See were established on 24 May 1992.
The Embassy of Georgia to the Holy See was opened in 2004.
The Embassy of the Holy See has been functioning in Georgia since 1993.
Georgia and the Holy See share an ancient history of relations, dating back to the advent of Christianity. This enduring connection has been maintained, developed and reinforced over the centuries. Throughout history, both Catholic and Orthodox Christians have supported each another in the process of Georgia's restoration. Georgian Catholics such as Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani, Mikheil Tamarashvili, Zakaria Paliashvili, Stephane and Petre Melikishvili, Simon Kaukhchishvili, Petre Otkheli significantly contributed to the advancement of culture, education, and science in Georgia.
Nowadays, Georgia and the Vatican maintain strong political ties. The Holy See firmly supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders. The Vatican condemns the dire security, humanitarian and human rights situation in the occupied regions of Georgia.
In 1999, Pope John Paul II paid a historic visit to Georgia.
Furthermore, there have been several significant bilateral visits recently, demonstrating the strong friendship between the two States. In 2016, Pope Francis paid a memorable visit to Georgia, and in 2019, Georgia welcomed the Vatican’s Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin. In June 2021, the President of Georgia rendered an official visit to the Holy See, during which memorandums of cooperation in education and culture were signed for the first time. In 2023, the Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia and the Minister of Foreign Affairs paid visits to the Vatican.
The cooperation between Georgia and the Vatican in these realms is particularly vibrant, with a specific focus on universities and science. Georgian students and researchers are able to explore the unique archives and libraries of the Vatican for their scientific and research pursuits. This collaboration also grants them access to various pontifical Universities to study humanities, history and religious sciences.
In the past few years, momentous cultural events were organized in Vatican. In November 2023, the mosaic panel featuring the miraculous icon of Iveria Virgin Mary was installed in the Vatican gardens. This decision came as a result of years-long negotiations between Georgia and the Holy See. The unveiling ceremony was attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, representatives from the Vatican City and members of the Patriarchate delegation of Georgia.
In June 2022, the Sistine Chapel hosted a performance of the patriarchal choir of the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Georgia, a landmark event as it was the first time that Georgian polyphony resonated within the Chapel. The event was of special significance, as the Sistine Chapel almost never hosts concerts displaying foreign culture.
On 13 April 2023, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ilia Darchiashvili held a meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Holy See, Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Jose Avelino Bettencourt.
