If you're looking for unique and authentic souvenirs and gifts to take home from your trip to Tbilisi, look no further than the city's artisanal craft scene. From handmade ceramics to traditional textiles, there's something for everyone in Tbilisi's craft markets and shops.
Ceramics
One of the most popular types of artisanal crafts in Tbilisi is ceramics. Georgian pottery has a long history, dating back to the 7th century BC. Today, you can find beautiful handmade ceramics in shops and markets throughout the city.
One of the best places to find handmade ceramics in Tbilisi is at the Dry Bridge Market. This open-air market is located on the banks of the Mtkvari River and is open every day except Monday. Here, you'll find a wide variety of ceramics, including plates, bowls, vases, and more. The prices are reasonable, and you can often negotiate with the vendors to get a better deal.
Another great place to find ceramics in Tbilisi is at the Tbilisi Flea Market. This market is held on Saturdays and Sundays and features a mix of vintage and handmade items. You'll find a variety of ceramics here, as well as other artisanal crafts like jewelry, textiles, and woodwork.
Textiles
Georgian textiles are known for their intricate patterns and bright colors. From traditional wool carpets to silk scarves, there's a wide variety of textiles to choose from in Tbilisi.
One of the best places to find textiles in Tbilisi is at the Dry Bridge Market. Here, you'll find a variety of handmade wool carpets, as well as silk scarves and other textiles. You can often negotiate with the vendors to get a better price, but be prepared to haggle.
Another great place to find textiles in Tbilisi is at the Meidan Bazaar. This market is located in the heart of the old town and features a mix of traditional and modern textiles. You'll find everything from handmade wool socks to modern t-shirts with Georgian designs.
Woodwork
Georgian woodwork is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful designs. From handmade furniture to small decorative items, there's a wide variety of woodwork to choose from in Tbilisi.
One of the best places to find woodwork in Tbilisi is at the Tbilisi Flea Market. Here, you'll find a variety of handmade wooden items, including furniture, bowls, and decorative items. You can often negotiate with the vendors to get a better price, but be prepared to haggle.
Another great place to find woodwork in Tbilisi is at the Caravanserai. This historic building has been converted into a shopping center, and it features a variety of shops selling handmade items, including woodwork. You'll find everything from small decorative items to large pieces of furniture here.
Jewelry
Georgian jewelry is known for its intricate designs and use of traditional materials like silver and gold. From traditional earrings to modern necklaces, there's a wide variety of jewelry to choose from in Tbilisi.
One of the best places to find jewelry in Tbilisi is at the Meidan Bazaar. Here, you'll find a variety of handmade jewelry, including traditional earrings and necklaces. You can often negotiate with the vendors to get a better price, but be prepared to haggle.
Another great place to find jewelry in Tbilisi is at the Tbilisi Flea Market. Here, you'll find a mix of vintage and handmade jewelry, as well as other artisanal crafts like textiles and woodwork.
Traditional Georgian Crafts
In addition to ceramics, textiles, woodwork, and jewelry, there are many other traditional Georgian crafts to explore in Tbilisi. Here are a few examples:
Chokha
The chokha is a traditional Georgian coat worn by men. It's made from wool and features intricate embroidery and designs. You can find chokhas for sale in many of the markets and shops in Tbilisi.
Khinkali Makers
Khinkali is a traditional Georgian dumpling filled with meat or cheese. You can find many restaurants in Tbilisi that serve khinkali, but if you want to bring home a taste of Georgia, consider buying a khinkali maker. These wooden tools are used to shape and seal the dumplings and make a great souvenir or gift.
Churchkhela
Churchkhela is a traditional Georgian candy made from grape juice and nuts. It's shaped into long strings and hung to dry. You can find churchkhela for sale in many of the markets and shops in Tbilisi.
Where to Shop for Artisanal Crafts in Tbilisi
There are many markets and shops in Tbilisi where you can find artisanal crafts. Here are a few of the best:
Dry Bridge Market
The Dry Bridge Market is one of the best places to find handmade ceramics, textiles, and woodwork in Tbilisi. It's open every day except Monday and is located on the banks of the Mtkvari River.
Tbilisi Flea Market
The Tbilisi Flea Market is held on Saturdays and Sundays and features a mix of vintage and handmade items. You'll find a variety of artisanal crafts here, as well as clothing, books, and more.
Meidan Bazaar
The Meidan Bazaar is located in the heart of the old town and features a mix of traditional and modern textiles, jewelry, and other artisanal crafts.
Caravanserai
The Caravanserai is a historic building that has been converted into a shopping center. It features a variety of shops selling handmade items, including woodwork, textiles, and jewelry.
Conclusion
Tbilisi's artisanal craft scene is a treasure trove of unique and authentic souvenirs and gifts. From handmade ceramics to traditional textiles, there's something for everyone in the city's craft markets and shops. So, the next time you're in Tbilisi, be sure to explore the city's artisanal craft scene and bring home a piece of Georgian culture.