TBILISI: The History of Tbilisi’s Restoration — How Time and Its Citizens Shaped the City

The story of Tbilisi’s ancient sites is inseparable from the story of their restoration. Georgia’s capital has been destroyed many times by invaders and rebuilt by its citizens. The most recent reconstruction followed the Persian invasion of 1795.

During the tour, we’ll explore what architectural restoration is and the various forms it takes. We’ll examine the remains of fortress walls — some parts are truly ancient, while others were rebuilt in the late 20th century to create a tourist image of Tbilisi. We’ll learn how Soviet architects in the Stalinist era integrated the preserved bell tower of the demolished Vank Cathedral into an arch, turning it into a focal point of the district.

We’ll also visit the inner courtyards of two surviving caravanserais and discuss how they were structured. The walk will end at the scenic overlook near the Upper Bethlehem Church.