Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography
სვანეთის ისტორიისა და ეთნოგრაფიის მუზეუმი
One of Georgia's most important regional museums, housing medieval icons, manuscripts and gold and silver works, and the perfect first stop for understanding Svan culture.
The museum sits just south of central Mestia and was rebuilt as a modern exhibition space in 2013. Its collection includes gold and silver repoussé icons from the 9th to 14th centuries, precious Gospel manuscripts, traditional Svan metalwork and folk objects. Many of the pieces come from mountain village churches that escaped damage thanks to their isolation. Floor-to-ceiling windows on the top floor frame the stone towers and snowy peaks, with superb views. Tickets cost about 20 lari. The museum is closed on Mondays. It is recommended that you visit on your first day in town.
Opening hours
About 10:00–18:00; closed Mondays
Nearby sights
- Svan Towers of Mestia
- Margiani House Museum
- Mikheil Khergiani House Museum
- Hatsvali Ski Resort
- Koruldi Lakes
- Zuruldi Ridge
- Chalaadi Glacier
- Ushba & Shdugra Waterfall