Tbilisi City Guide

Nestled on the scenic slopes of Tbilisi’s Turtle Lake, the Open Air Museum of Ethnography is a captivating journey through Georgia’s rich cultural tapestry, offering an immersive look into the country’s diverse regional lifestyles, traditions, and architecture. Founded in 1966 by ethnographer Giorgi Chitaia, this expansive museum spans over 50 hectares and showcases traditional structures and artifacts that tell the story of Georgia’s past and its unique regional identities.
The museum displays around seventy authentic buildings and architectural masterpieces collected from all over Georgia. These range from rustic mountain towers of Svaneti to the distinctive wooden houses of Kakheti, each furnished with original tools, household items, and textiles, providing insight into how different communities lived and thrived over the centuries. Visitors can explore dwellings, wine cellars, mills, and even chapels, each carefully reconstructed and filled with artifacts that reflect the daily life, customs, and craftsmanship of Georgia’s many regions.
Regular events, including folk performances, craft workshops, and seasonal festivals, bring the museum to life, allowing visitors to experience Georgia’s folk culture first-hand. Guided tours provide deeper insights into each region’s traditions and architectural styles, making the museum a perfect place for families, history buffs, and travelers eager to experience Georgian heritage beyond the city center.
With its beautiful views over Tbilisi and its serene natural setting, the Open Air Museum of Ethnography is a must-visit for those wanting to connect with Georgia’s cultural diversity and rural charm. It’s a delightful escape into history, nature, and tradition, offering a genuine taste of Georgia’s soul in the heart of Tbilisi.