Palace of Rituals Tbilisi Walking Tour
Description
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of postmodern architecture, the Tbilisi Palace of Rituals was built in 1985 by Georgian architect Victor Jorbenadze. His vision was to add ceremonial grandeur to weddings while navigating Soviet censorship. Despite strict bans, he subtly included Georgian church elements like frescoes, bell towers, and vast interior spaces. The result was a structure that felt sacred and symbolic, with spiral forms inviting continuous exploration. After the fall of the Soviet Union, the palace was left abandoned, vandalized, and looted. In 2002, it was revived by a Georgian businessman and philanthropist who gave the space new life and meaning through his personal interpretation. The building today remains an iconic blend of tradition, resilience, and creative vision.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Explore the Tbilisi Palace of Rituals – a postmodern architectural gem now owned by the family of late Georgian businessman Badri Patarkatsishvili. Discover symbolic references to Georgian and global culture, religion, and astrology. Stroll through themed halls inspired by Egyptian, Chinese, French, and Moroccan styles. Visit a Georgian courtyard modeled after Patarkatsishvili's Old Tbilisi home. See the Arkadia building, created to host world leaders. Wander the lush garden filled with rare trees from Germany's historic Lappen Baumschule nursery, and spot peacocks near Arkadia Hall. Explore a unique vintage car collection, featuring Queen Elizabeth II's Daimler, Yuri Gagarin's personal car, Joseph Goebbels' WWII vehicle, and the rare gangster-favorite Excalibur.
Highlights
What's included
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
