Discovering Old Tbilisi Slowly, Letting Each Step Reveal Its Hidden Beauty and Charm

Old Tbilisi - the historical part of the city of Tbilisi, includes the districts and settlements that until 1936 were called "Tiflis". Old Tbilisi includes the following districts: Abanotubani - Kharpukhi (or Tbilissi, then Seyidabad), Kala, Isani - Avlabari, Sololaki, Mtatsminda, Vere, Ortachala, Chugureti, Didube, Nadzaladevi. Old Tbilisi has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate since 2007.https://georgiantravelguide.com/

The moment we strode down from the elegant Bridge of Peace I felt like the day was going to be special. We went right away to the old town area. The ambiance changed. Everything felt slower and filled with stories waiting to be uncovered. One of the first things that caught our attention was a decorated bus. It was covered in vivid murals and personality. To our glee, it had been transformed into a café bar. It was one of those unexpected finds that quickly adds happiness to a tour.

As we crossed the street I promptly noticed tall cypress trees lining both sides of the pathway. They stood so beautifully like guardians of the place. It makes a natural lane that feels calm and inviting. Our guide explained that this path led to the Patriarchate of Georgia. The center of the Georgian Orthodox Church. Standing before its entrance, I was quietly stunned. The massive arched gateway with its carved metal doors displayed elegant patterns and religious motifs. It spoke of centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. It felt like stepping into a place where faith and history are closely connected.

We continued our walk and found ourselves along Shavteli Street. A place that truly showed the spirit of Old Tbilisi. The cobblestone alleys, warm tones of classic brick walls and alluring carved wooden balconies above us create a view that felt almost like a painting. The site was filled with cafés and small restaurants. Many have outdoor seating where people can sit comfortably. It had a homey ambiance. I felt myself slowing down not wanting to hurry through such a beautiful place.

Our guide shows the Anchiskhati Basilica. The oldest existing church in the city. We stepped inside quietly. The atmosphere changed. It was cool, dim and deeply serene. Taking photos was not allowed. I found that it made the experience even more meaningful. Without a camera in hand I focused more on what I felt. The placidity, the holiness and the whispers of history within those old walls.

We reached the whimsical Clock Tower of the Rezo Gabriadze Theatre. The tower stood slightly leaning. A large clock at its center gives it a jolly almost storybook appearance. Our guide explained that it was built using repurposed materials and decorated with hand painted ceramic tiles and mosaics. There were even sections placed with antique style metallic pieces all set into rough textured surfaces. My husband and I were both amazed. We couldn’t stop looking at it. Many tourists were gathered around taking photos. So we patiently waited. When the space finally cleared we took our turn. Snapping our own little moment with the tower, smiling and simply enjoying being there together.

As we walked on, we noticed statues placed along the pathways. Figures representing traditional Georgian characters. Each one seemed to tell its own story. Adding an artistic and cultural touch to the surroundings.

We made our way back to another side of the area. We passed by more restaurants and cafés. Some had incredibly creative and eye catching designs that naturally drew people in. I couldn’t resist taking photos. It felt like every corner had something worth remembering.

While walking I felt a joy rising within me. I never imagined that I would one day walk through Old Tbilisi. Every step we took felt meaningful. Every sight added to the memories we were creating together. It wasn’t just a tour. It was a heartfelt journey. One that filled me with gratitude and wonder for the beauty of the world.

Photos taken using Samsung S25 Ultra
Collage using Canva

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