Georgia has said its final goodbye to one of its most revered spiritual leaders, as Ilia II was laid to rest in Tbilisi following days of nationwide mourning that united the country in grief.

Tens of thousands of mourners flooded the capital, forming long queues day and night to pay tribute to the man who guided the Georgian Orthodox Church for nearly five decades. White roses, carried by grieving citizens, became a powerful symbol of national sorrow, The Caspian Post reports via Georgian media.

The long-serving patriarch passed away on March 17 at the age of 93 due to severe internal bleeding. Over his decades of leadership, he played a pivotal role in reviving religious life after the fall of the Soviet Union and became a symbol of unity during turbulent periods, including Georgia’s independence and regional conflicts.

In a deeply emotional procession, his coffin was carried by hand from Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) to Sioni Cathedral, as funeral bells rang across the nation. Streets were lined with mourners, while authorities made public transport free to ensure widespread participation.

The funeral drew global attention, with high-level delegations attending. Azerbaijan’s Parliament Speaker Sahiba Gafarova led an official delegation, while President Ilham Aliyev sent condolences, praising Ilia II’s role in strengthening regional ties.

Among other dignitaries present was Armenia’s President Vahagn Khachaturyan. Meanwhile, Garegin II was unable to attend due to ongoing legal restrictions, highlighting tensions between the Armenian government and the Church under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

Russian representatives also took part, including Mikhail Shvydkoy and clergy led by Metropolitan of Minsk Veniamin, despite ongoing strains between the Moscow and Constantinople patriarchates.

Widely regarded as one of the most respected Orthodox leaders in the world, Ilia II leaves behind a profound legacy-one that shaped modern Georgia’s spiritual identity and united generations through faith and resilience.