Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography: A Cultural Treasure Trove
Discover Svaneti's soul: Explore millennia of history, art, and culture at Mestia's renowned regional museum.
The Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography in Mestia safeguards the unique cultural heritage of the Svan people, showcasing artifacts from archaeology, religious art, and daily life. Founded in 1936 and renovated to modern standards, the museum offers a deep dive into Svaneti's rich past.
A brief summary to Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography
- A. Ioseliani 7, Mestia, GE
- +995322997176
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Check the opening hours in advance, as the museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth tour of the museum's collections.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
- The museum has a cafe and bookstore for refreshments and souvenirs.
Getting There
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Walking
The Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography is located on A. Ioseliani Street in Mestia. From Seti Square, walk southeast towards the river. Cross the bridge and continue along A. Ioseliani Street. The museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Mestia, particularly around Seti Square. A short taxi ride to the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography from anywhere in central Mestia will typically cost around 5-10 GEL. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mestiatour guesthouse
0.2 km
Discover the beauty of Svaneti at Mestiatour Guesthouse, your cozy retreat in the heart of Mestia, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
Mestia Eco Huts
0.3 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Mestia Eco Huts, the perfect eco-friendly retreat in the stunning Svaneti region of Georgia.
ERTI KAVA Mestia specialty coffee
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Georgian coffee culture at ERTI KAVA, a specialty coffee spot in Mestia offering exquisite brews and a cozy atmosphere.
Mountain Cabins
0.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Mountain Cabins in Mestia, where comfort meets stunning views in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains.
Sunseti
0.3 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine and stunning mountain views at Sunseti in Mestia, a must-visit restaurant in the heart of Svaneti.
Hotel Svaneti
0.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional Georgian hospitality at Hotel Svaneti in the heart of Mestia, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
Vichnashi
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Discover authentic Georgian flavors at Vichnashi in Mestia, where traditional dishes like Kubdari await to delight your taste buds.
Hotel Daeli
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Experience the charm of Mestia at Hotel Daeli, where traditional hospitality meets modern comfort in the heart of the Svaneti region.
Mestia Views
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Discover the breathtaking panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains at Mestia Views, a stunning natural highlight in Georgia's Svaneti region.
Mestia's District Court
0.4 km
Explore Mestia's District Court, an architectural marvel reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Svaneti amidst breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Mushkudiani Manor
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Discover the charm of Svaneti at Mushkudiani Manor, where traditional Georgian hospitality meets stunning mountain views for an unforgettable stay.
Mestia Panorama
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Pub & Cinema DEDE
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Guesthouse data
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Experience the authentic Georgian hospitality at Mestia Guesthouse, your cozy base for exploring the stunning Caucasus mountains.
MAG Shawarma
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Discover MAG Shawarma in Mestia for a delightful taste of authentic gyros and fresh Georgian snacks, all in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seti Square
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Mestia: Seti Square blends history, culture, and modern life in Georgia's stunning Svaneti region.
Hatsvali Cable Car - Mestia
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains. Ride the Hatsvali Cable Car in Mestia for adventure and natural beauty.
Blue Mountains • ცისფერი მთები
0.5 km
Discover the stunning peaks, lush valleys, and vibrant culture of the Blue Mountains near Mestia, Georgia. An unforgettable family adventure awaits!
Sour Springs
0.6 km
Discover Mestia's natural springs: Refreshing mineral waters with a hint of fizz, straight from the heart of Svaneti.
Margiani's House Museum
1.0 km
Discover Svaneti's soul at Margiani's House Museum in Mestia: a journey into the heart of Svan culture, traditions, and history.
Hatsvali Ski Lift
1.4 km
Ascend to breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains with Hatsvali Ski Lift, a year-round gateway to Svaneti's alpine beauty.
Mikhail Khergiani House Museum
1.7 km
Explore the life and legacy of the 'Tiger of the Cliffs' at the Mikhail Khergiani House Museum in Mestia, Svaneti. A tribute to a legendary mountaineer.
Laghami Church
1.7 km
Discover ancient frescoes and unique architecture at this historic two-story church in the heart of Svaneti's stunning landscape.
The Cross Over Mestia
2.1 km
Hike to the Cross Over Mestia for breathtaking panoramic views of Svaneti's mountains, lush valleys, and ancient watchtowers. A must-see!
Paragliding in Svaneti Mestia
2.6 km
Soar above the stunning Svaneti mountains in Mestia for an unforgettable paragliding experience. Certified pilots, breathtaking views, and pure adventure!
Hatsvali Ski Resort
2.8 km
Discover Hatsvali Ski Resort: A unique Georgian winter escape with stunning slopes, cultural charm, and breathtaking Caucasus Mountain views.
Heshkili Huts
3.1 km
Discover tranquility at Heshkili Huts: Cozy mountain retreats in Georgia's Svaneti region, offering stunning views and authentic hospitality.
Flying swing. Place for photography
3.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and an exhilarating ride on the famous Flying Swing in Heshkili, Svaneti. A must-visit for photographers and adventurers!
Koruldi Lakes
5.3 km
Hike or drive to the Koruldi Lakes near Mestia for breathtaking alpine views and stunning reflections of the Caucasus Mountains.
Koruldi Ridge
7.0 km
Hike to Koruldi Ridge for breathtaking Caucasus views. A challenging trek with rewarding panoramas of Mount Ushba and the Svaneti region.
Essential places to dine
პანორამა- Panorama Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic Georgian cuisine at Panorama Restaurant in Mestia.
Dissident
0.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Georgia at Dissident Cafe in Mestia – where tradition meets contemporary dining.
BBQ Garden
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of Georgia at BBQ Garden in Mestia - where delicious grilled dishes meet warm hospitality.
Hotel Mestia Inn
0.3 km
Discover comfort and authentic Georgian culture at Hotel Mestia Inn in scenic Mestia—your gateway to adventure in Svaneti!
Cafe Laila
0.3 km
Discover authentic Georgian flavors at Cafe Laila in Mestia - a delightful dining experience amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Lile
0.4 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Lile in Mestia - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Turkish Restaurant Ritur Georgia
0.4 km
Savor authentic Turkish flavors at Ritur in Mestia—where culinary tradition meets stunning mountain scenery.
New Cafe Daeli
0.4 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at New Cafe Daeli in Mestia.
Ailama
0.4 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Ailama in Mestia - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Old House
0.4 km
Discover authentic Svanetian flavors at Old House in Mestia – where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Doesn’t exist anymore
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Experience authentic Svanetian cuisine in Mestia’s charming restaurant, where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Chalet Mestia Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine with stunning mountain views at Chalet Mestia Restaurant in beautiful Mestia.
Qoruldi Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Georgian flavors at Qoruldi Restaurant in Mestia, where traditional cuisine meets stunning mountain views.
Shiola
0.5 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Shiola in Mestia - where tradition meets taste amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Twin Peaks
0.5 km
Discover Twin Peaks in Mestia: A delightful fusion of Georgian flavors and vibrant bar culture set against breathtaking mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nikora
0.3 km
Experience the convenience and local flavors at Nikora Supermarket in Mestia, your go-to spot for all essentials while exploring Svaneti.
Spar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Georgia at Spar Grocery Store in Mestia, where local and international selections await every traveler.
კავკასიის ბუნების საუნჯე
0.4 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of the Caucasus at Mestia's unique souvenir store, capturing the essence of Georgia in every piece.
Souvenirs in Mestia
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Explore Mestia's charming souvenir store for unique Georgian crafts, including stunning enamel works and handmade treasures that embody local culture.
Georgian bread bakery
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Experience authentic Georgian flavors at the Georgian Bread Bakery in Mestia, where tradition meets taste in every delightful bite.
Coffee Kor
0.4 km
Discover the unique charm of Coffee Kor in Mestia, where every cup tells a story of local culture and rich flavors.
აქსესუარები
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Kate's Cakes
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dandelion mestia
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Experience the best artisanal ice cream at Dandelion in Mestia, where every scoop is a taste of Georgia's vibrant flavors and hospitality.
LAVLADASHI Souvenirs
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Explore the heart of Georgian craftsmanship at LAVLADASHI Souvenirs in Mestia, offering exquisite handmade products and rich cultural stories.
Ineza’s Cakes
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Discover the flavors of Mestia at Ineza’s Cakes, where every bite is a delightful journey into Georgian pastry traditions.
Mestia pharmacy აფთიაქი
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Sweet Cherry in Mestia
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Discover the sweet taste of Georgia at Sweet Cherry, Mestia's delightful pastry shop serving traditional and innovative desserts in a cozy atmosphere.
Mtidam
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Explore the essence of Georgian craftsmanship at Mtidam, a charming store in Mestia offering unique handmade goods and traditional products.
Alaia souvenirs
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ezo
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Hotel Posta Mestia
0.3 km
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ტერასა თაუერი • Terrace Tower
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Cafe-bar Little Svaneti Cafe
0.4 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Cafe-bar Little Svaneti, the perfect blend of local flavors and breathtaking mountain views in Mestia.
KRK BAR
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant charm of KRK BAR in Mestia, Georgia, a local favorite for delicious drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar-restaurant Prince Jafraan
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Mestia at Bar-Restaurant Prince Jafraan, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views in an inviting setting.
Karaoke Bar in Mestia
0.4 km
Experience lively nights of fun and music at Mestia's favorite karaoke bar, where locals and tourists gather for unforgettable performances.
Sweetnight
0.4 km
Experience comfort and hospitality at Sweetnight Hotel, your ideal base to explore the breathtaking beauty of Mestia, Georgia.
Kafe Kolkhishi
0.5 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Georgia at Kafe Kolkhishi, a charming bar in Mestia offering delicious local cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.
Wine & Theater
0.7 km
Experience the fusion of local wines and culture at Wine & Theater in Mestia, a vibrant bar perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Wine shop.ღვინის მაღაზია
0.8 km
Explore the best of Georgian wines in Mestia's charming Wine Shop, where tradition meets hospitality in every glass.
Terrace Bar at Hotel Gistola in Mestia
1.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and local flavors at the Terrace Bar in Mestia, your perfect mountain retreat.
Sakhli bar
1.6 km
Discover Sakhli Bar in Mestia - a vibrant spot for drinks, local culture, and unforgettable mountain views.
Sakhli Laghamshi Homestay
1.6 km
Discover the warmth of Georgian hospitality at Sakhli Laghamshi Homestay, a cozy inn nestled in the heart of Mestia's stunning landscapes.
Moto Camping Paradise
1.7 km
Experience adventure and comfort at Moto Camping Paradise, the ultimate guest house for motorcycle enthusiasts in stunning Mestia, Georgia.