Guria Historical and Ethnographic Museum

Guria Historical and Ethnographic Museum

Guria

55/10090 min

The Guria Historical and Ethnographic Museum, also known as the Ozurgeti History Museum, is the largest museum in the Guria region of Georgia. Founded on April 1, 1936, it houses over 6,000 exhibits spanning from the 9th millennium BC to the present day. The museum's collections include artifacts from the Neolithic Age, Early to Late Bronze Age Colkhian culture, Iron Age burial grounds, and a diverse range of numismatic items such as gold coins of Alexander the Great, Colkhian silver coins, Turkish coins, and rare European silver coins. Additionally, it features ethnographic objects from the 19th century, including working and living tools, fine art pieces, and historically significant archival books. A notable highlight of the museum is Napoleon Bonaparte's rapier, which adds a unique historical dimension. The museum operates daily from 10:00 to 18:00 with free entry and is administratively organized as a non-commercial legal entity with three branches: the Ethnographic Museum in Dvabzu, the Memorial Museum in Gurianta, and the Ekvtime Takaishvili Archaeological Museum in Likhauri. Its rich collections provide deep insight into the cultural and historical heritage of the Guria region and broader Georgian history.

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Astuce: Visit the museum during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Entry is free, but consider checking opening hours in advance as they run from 10:00 to 18:00 daily. Exploring its branches in Dvabzu, Gurianta, and Likhauri can enrich your understanding of Gurian ethnography and archaeology. Booking guided tours in advance may enhance your visit, though general admission does not require prior reservation.

Faits intéressants

  • The museum's collection includes Napoleon Bonaparte's rapier, a unique historical artifact.
  • It holds a golden coin of Alexander the Great among its numismatic exhibits.
  • The museum's artifacts date back to the 9th millennium BC, covering a vast span of human history.
  • It was once located in the historic Gurieli Palace building from 1974 to 1991.

Histoire

1936

Established on April 1, 1936, the museum initially was directed by Nicholas Samsonia.

1974

Between 1974 and 1991, it was housed in the Gurieli Palace building, which today serves as the bishop's residence.

2007

In 2007, the local self-government re-established the museum as a non-commercial legal entity, expanding its reach to include three branches focusing on ethnography, memorial history, and archaeology within the Guria region.

Guide du lieu

1
Neolithic and Bronze Age Exhibits

This section features artifacts from the Neolithic Age and the Early, Middle, and Late Bronze Age Colkhian culture, showcasing ancient tools, pottery, and cultural items that illuminate early human settlement in the region.

2
Numismatic Collection

A diverse range of coins including a golden coin of Alexander the Great, Colkhian silver coins, Turkish coins, and rare European silver coins, illustrating the historical trade and economic interactions in the region.

3
Ethnographic Section19th century

Displays 19th-century working and living objects alongside fine art pieces, reflecting the daily life and culture of Gurian people during that era.

4
Napoleon Bonaparte's Rapier

A notable exhibit featuring the rapier attributed to Napoleon Bonaparte, highlighting the museum's unique historical artifacts beyond the local region.