Tucked away in the heart of Georgia, the Samtskhe-Javakheti region unfolds a vibrant tapestry of history and culture. At its epicenter, in the refurbished Rabati Castle, is the Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum. This charming historical refuge stands as a testament to the region's vibrant past since its establishment in 1937, boasting over 25,000 exhibits.
Step into the Rabati Castle complex, and be prepared for an enchanting trip back in time. Reopened in 2012 after a thorough renovation, the museum weaves a narrative of Meskheti's history, starting from the Neolithic period (37th to 35th centuries BCE) to the present day.
The museum's comprehensive collection comprises archaeological, paleographic, paleontological, architectural, and ethnographic materials that encapsulate various chapters of Meskhetian history. Among these diverse displays, you'll encounter the unmissable Georgian lapidary inscriptions carved in stone, telling tales of the ancient world etched into the very fabric of the earth.
Feast your eyes on the dazzling collection of carpets, each woven with an intricate design that speaks volumes about the area's artistic heritage. The rugs date back to the cusp of the 19th and 20th centuries, their vibrant colors and patterns hinting at a past where each thread told a tale.
Bookworms will find their haven in the collection of manuscripts and early printed books, while numismatists will delight in the coin collection, a sparkling array of unique pieces that chronicle Georgia's economic history over the centuries.
But that's not all! The museum complex includes the Administrative building, a Mosque built in 1752, and the ruins of a medresa (Islamic school). Each of these sites stands as a silent witness to the area's rich and varied cultural past.
Open every day except Mondays from 10 am to 6 pm, the Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum invites all curious minds to delve into a past etched in stone, woven in threads, and printed on pages. Don't miss the chance to engage with Georgia's rich heritage in this one-of-a-kind historical haven.
