Georgian National Museum: A Journey Through Georgia's Rich History

The Georgian National Museum, situated on Tbilisi's central Rustaveli Avenue, is more than just a museum; it's a gateway to understanding Georgia's captivating past and vibrant present. Established in the 1920s, the museum has grown into a complex that unifies several leading museums across the country, aiming to modernize the management of its institutions and coordinate research and educational activities. Inside, visitors can explore a vast collection of artifacts that narrate the story of Georgia, the Caucasus, and the Near East. From archaeological relics dating back to the Stone Age to exhibits detailing medieval life, revolutionary movements, and modern achievements, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the region's evolution. Key highlights include treasures of gold and silver artifacts and jewelry from the pre-Christian era, and the prehistoric human remains found in Dmanisi, which are the oldest signs of human existence outside Africa. The museum also features collections dedicated to ethnography, numismatics, and unique monuments, providing insights into the cultural diversity of Georgia. The museum's crown jewel is a collection of documents from the 16th century to today, including books printed by the church, gospels printed in 1809 at the publishing house of King Vakhtang VI, belles lettres, 19th-century periodicals, and more. The Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia is one of the oldest and main buildings of the GNM. It was established in 1852 as a Caucasus museum. The building itself is an architectural landmark, originally built as a military hospital in the late 19th century and later given to the museum in the early 20th century. Its red brick facade and medieval Georgian architectural details add to the atmosphere of the museum. The museum also offers educational programs, temporary exhibitions, a cafe, and a bookstore. The yard of this impressive museum is dedicated to education.