Situated in the heart of Tbilisi on L. Gudiashvili Street, The Book Museum, established in 2017, forms an integral part of the National Parliamentary Library of Georgia. This literary sanctuary harbors a collection of over 10,000 items, connecting visitors to Georgia's fascinating written history that dates back to the 5th century.
The Book Museum brings to life the stories hidden within the pages of its exceptional collection, highlighting Georgia's contribution to the literary world. A treasure trove of Georgian and Proto-Kartvelian languages, it is recognized as one of Europe's finest museums dedicated to the written word.
Step inside and be amazed by the permanent exhibitions showcasing over 5,000 rare books. An additional 15,000 unique publications are meticulously preserved in the closed library, adding an aura of intrigue and mystique.
Notable gems within the museum's vast collection include an Italian-Georgian dictionary from 1629, printed in Rome, and the first book printed in the Georgian language. Marvel at books from the publishing house established by Georgian King Vakhtang VI in 1675, signifying Georgia's early ventures into the publishing world.
The museum provides an intimate glimpse into the personal libraries of illustrious figures like Ilia Chavchavadze, Dimitri Bakradze, and Giorgi Chubinashvili, and the recently recovered collections of Grand Duke Michael Nikolaevich Romanov and Brothers Zubalashvili. Walk into Ilia Chavchavadze’s personal office and library, a time capsule that transports you back to his literary era.
Not limited to Georgian treasures alone, the museum also hosts a plethora of international literary jewels. Find autographed works of global luminaries such as Victor Hugo, Dmitri Mendeleev, and Antoine Renoir in the extensive collection of Russian tsar Mikheil Romanov.
One of the museum's highlights is the presentation of Georgia's greatest literary masterpiece, the Knight in the Panther’s Skin, in both Georgian and foreign language printings. This poetic epic symbolizes the profound depth of Georgia's literary tradition.
For those intrigued by the evolution of the written word, the Book Museum offers a truly immersive experience. Here, you can touch the hard copies of ancient texts or flip through digital versions on an interactive touchscreen display.
The establishment of The Book Museum, made possible with the support of the David Bezhuashvili Education Foundation, marks a significant milestone in preserving and promoting Georgia's literary heritage. Open for public viewing, the museum promises to enchant all who appreciate the allure of books and the magical stories they hold within their pages.
