Georgian National Gallery: A Treasure of Georgian Art

The Georgian National Gallery, also known as the Tbilisi Art Gallery, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts exploring Tbilisi. Situated on the central Shota Rustaveli Avenue, the gallery's building was originally constructed in 1888 as the Russian Military-Historical Museum, designed by Tbilisi-based German architect Albert Salzmann. The design drew inspiration from the Palazzo Delle Esposizioni in Rome. In 1920, the building was transformed into an art gallery thanks to the efforts of Dimitri Shevardnadze, a prominent Georgian artist. The first exhibition featured a diverse collection, including Iranian miniature art, European and Oriental works, and pieces by Georgian artists. The gallery quickly became a leading exhibition space in Georgia. In 2007, it became part of the Georgian National Museum. Once known as the “Blue Gallery” due to its blue exterior, it was repainted pearl-grey after 2007 restoration work. Today, the gallery features eight permanent halls, a laboratory, temporary exhibition spaces, a workspace, and a gift shop. The gallery holds over 30,000 items, with permanent exhibitions of works by renowned Georgian artists such as Niko Pirosmani, Davit Kakabadze, Lado Gudiashvili, and Iakob Nikoladze. The gallery has also hosted exhibitions featuring international artists like Michelangelo and Botticelli. The gallery is open every day except Monday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.