If you're planning a trip to Georgia, you won't want to miss the Georgian House Museum in Bakuriani. This museum is a hidden gem that provides a unique and fascinating look into Georgian history and culture. From the moment you step inside, you'll be transported back in time to a bygone era.
What is the Georgian House Museum?
The Georgian House Museum is a historic house that has been restored to its former glory. The house was built in the late 19th century and belonged to a wealthy Georgian family. The museum is now open to the public and offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience what life was like for Georgian aristocrats.
The house itself is a beautiful example of traditional Georgian architecture. The exterior features a large balcony overlooking the street, while the interior is decorated with ornate plasterwork and intricate wood carvings. The rooms are furnished with luxurious furniture and textiles, giving visitors a sense of what life was like for the Dadeshkeliani family, who once lived in the house.
The History of the Georgian House Museum
The Georgian House Museum was built in the late 19th century by the Dadeshkeliani family, who were one of the wealthiest families in Georgia at the time. The family had a long and illustrious history, and their house was a reflection of their wealth and status.
The Dadeshkeliani family were known for their love of art and culture, and their house was filled with beautiful paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. They also had a passion for winemaking, and the house had its own wine cellar where they stored their prized wines.
After the Soviet Union took control of Georgia in 1921, the house was confiscated by the government and used for various purposes, including as a school and a hospital. It wasn't until the 1990s that the house was returned to the Dadeshkeliani family and restored to its former glory.
What to Expect at the Georgian House Museum
When you visit the Georgian House Museum, you'll be taken on a guided tour of the house. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who will provide you with a wealth of information about the history and culture of Georgia.
One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to see the traditional Georgian costumes that are on display in one of the rooms. These costumes are incredibly ornate and were worn by the Dadeshkeliani family during special occasions.
Another highlight of the tour is the chance to see the traditional Georgian wine cellar. Georgia has a long and proud tradition of winemaking, and the wine cellar at the Georgian House Museum is a testament to this. The cellar is stocked with a variety of Georgian wines, and you'll have the chance to sample some of them during the tour.
In addition to the costumes and wine cellar, the tour will take you through the various rooms of the house, giving you a glimpse into the lives of the Dadeshkeliani family. You'll see the family's bedrooms, the dining room, and the sitting room, among other rooms.
Tips for Visiting the Georgian House Museum
If you're planning a visit to the Georgian House Museum, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Wear comfortable shoes: The tour of the house involves a lot of walking, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring a camera: The Georgian House Museum is incredibly photogenic, so be sure to bring a camera to capture all the beautiful details.
- Plan your visit in advance: The Georgian House Museum is only open for tours on certain days, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
Getting to the Georgian House Museum
The Georgian House Museum is located in Bakuriani, a popular ski resort town in Georgia. If you're staying in Tbilisi, you can take a train or a marshrutka (a shared taxi) to Bakuriani. The journey takes around three hours by train and two hours by marshrutka.
Once you arrive in Bakuriani, the Georgian House Museum is easy to find. It's located on the main street in the town, and there are signs directing visitors to the museum.
Conclusion
The Georgian House Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Georgian history and culture. The museum offers a unique and fascinating look into the lives of Georgian aristocrats in the late 19th century. From the ornate plasterwork to the traditional costumes and wine cellar, there's something for everyone at the Georgian House Museum. So if you're planning a trip to Georgia, be sure to add the Georgian House Museum to your itinerary.