If you're looking for a unique souvenir from your trip to Tbilisi, local pottery is a great option. The art of pottery has been a part of Georgian culture for centuries, and there are many talented artisans creating beautiful pieces throughout the city. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best places to find local pottery in Tbilisi.
The Old Town Bazaar
The Old Town Bazaar is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Tbilisi's historic district. Here you'll find a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. One of the highlights of the bazaar is the pottery section, where you can find a wide range of unique pieces made by local artisans.
The Old Town Bazaar is a great place to get a feel for the local culture and to experience the hustle and bustle of a traditional Georgian marketplace. The vendors are friendly and welcoming, and many are happy to chat with visitors about their craft. You'll find a wide range of pottery here, from functional pieces like bowls and plates to decorative pieces like vases and figurines.
The Dry Bridge Market
The Dry Bridge Market is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in local crafts and antiques. This open-air market is located near the Mtkvari River and is home to dozens of vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry. The pottery section is particularly impressive, with many vendors offering one-of-a-kind pieces that you won't find anywhere else.
The Dry Bridge Market is a great place to find unique and unusual pieces of pottery. Many of the vendors here are artists themselves, and they take great pride in their work. You'll find a wide range of styles here, from traditional Georgian ceramics to more modern and abstract pieces.
The Tbilisi Flea Market
The Tbilisi Flea Market is another great destination for those looking for unique souvenirs. This market is held on weekends and features a variety of vendors selling vintage and handmade items. The pottery section is small but impressive, with many vendors offering beautiful pieces at reasonable prices.
The Tbilisi Flea Market is a great place to find hidden gems and unique pieces of pottery. While the selection may not be as extensive as at some of the other locations on this list, the prices are often more affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
The Georgian National Museum Gift Shop
If you're looking for high-quality, museum-worthy pottery, the Georgian National Museum Gift Shop is a great place to start. Located inside the Georgian National Museum, this shop offers a wide range of handmade pottery pieces created by some of the country's most talented artisans. While the prices here may be higher than at some of the other locations on this list, the quality of the pieces is top-notch.
The Georgian National Museum Gift Shop is a great option if you're looking for something truly special to take home with you. The pieces here are often more intricate and detailed than what you'll find at other locations, and they make great gifts for art lovers and collectors.
The Ethnographic Museum of Georgia Gift Shop
The Ethnographic Museum of Georgia is another great destination for those looking for high-quality pottery. The museum's gift shop offers a variety of handmade pieces created by local artisans, including traditional Georgian ceramics. While you're there, be sure to check out the museum's impressive collection of traditional Georgian costumes and textiles.
The Ethnographic Museum of Georgia is a great place to learn more about Georgian culture and history while also finding unique souvenirs. The pottery here is often more traditional in style, with intricate patterns and designs that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage.
The Pottery Workshops of Tbilisi
Finally, if you're interested in seeing the pottery-making process up close and personal, there are several workshops throughout the city that offer tours and classes. One of the most popular is the Tbilisi Pottery Workshop, where you can watch skilled artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own piece.
The pottery workshops of Tbilisi offer a unique opportunity to learn more about the art of pottery and to try your hand at creating your own piece. Many of the workshops offer classes for beginners, and the instructors are patient and knowledgeable. It's a great way to take home a truly one-of-a-kind souvenir from your trip to Tbilisi.
Conclusion
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking for a unique souvenir, local pottery is a great option when visiting Tbilisi. From bustling markets to high-end gift shops, there are plenty of places to find beautiful pieces created by talented artisans. So next time you're in Tbilisi, be sure to add a visit to one of these locations to your itinerary. With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect piece to take home with you.