Shalva Radiani Ethnographic Museum – Cultural Heritage of Guria
The Shalva Radiani Ethnographic Museum in Dvabzu village is a place where the history of Guria comes to life. It displays the personal belongings of the famous literary scholar, as well as ethnographic and historical exhibits that reveal the culture of the region.
🏛Shalva Radiani Ethnographic Museum is a unique collection of exhibits that allows you to better understand the history, life and traditions of Guria. Located in the village of Dvabzu in the Ozurgeti municipality, this museum is one of the important cultural centers of the region.
📜 Originally founded as a house-museum of the outstanding literary scholar and critic Shalva Radiani, it was transformed into an ethnographic museum in 2009. Today, it not only preserves the memory of the great scholar, but also presents a rich collection of items illustrating the traditional way of life of Guria.
Museum exposition
🏺 Historical and ethnographic artifacts
- Personal belongings and archives of Shalva Radiani - books, manuscripts, letters, photographs reflecting his contribution to science and literature.
- Tools - ancient agricultural tools used by the residents of Guria in the 19th-20th centuries.
- Traditional clothing - embroidered costumes, national outfits and accessories demonstrating the style of the region.
- Household items - clay and copper dishes, kitchen utensils, antique carpets and carved furniture.
🎭Cultural exhibits
- Musical instruments - traditional Gurian instruments used in folk songs and rituals.
- Photos and documents - archival photos and records telling about the history and development of the region.
- Examples of folk art - wood carving, weaving, ceramics created by local craftsmen.
History of the creation of the museum
📅 On October 20, 1985, a house-museum dedicated to the life and scientific work of academician Shalva Radiani was opened in his house. His personal belongings, photographs, archival materials and items of historical significance were kept in this building.
🔍 In 2009, the museum was expanded and transformed into an ethnographic center, where, in addition to Radiani's personal belongings, exhibits reflecting the culture, life and crafts of Guria began to be exhibited.
💡 Today, this is not just a museum, but an important part of the cultural heritage of the region.
Traditional holidays and events
🎉 One of the key events associated with the museum is the Kalandoba holiday - the traditional Gurian New Year, celebrated on January 14.
📌 On this day, local residents and tourists gather in the museum courtyard to take part in the celebration, which includes:
- Preparation of national cuisine.
- Folk dances and musical performances.
- Conducting ancient rites and rituals.
💡 This holiday makes the museum not only a repository of history, but also a living center of Gurian culture.
Practical information
- 📍 Address: Dvabzu village, Ozurgeti municipality, Guria, Georgia
- 📞 Contact phone: +995 577 60 14 79
- 📅 Working hours: daily, except Saturday and Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00
🚗 How to get there?
- By car – convenient access from Ozurgeti and other settlements of Guria.
- By public transport – regular buses and minibuses to the village of Dvabzu.
- On foot – if you are in the village, the museum is easily accessible.
What else to see nearby?
🌟 Shalva Radiani Ethnographic Museum is a place where the history of Guria comes to life.
✅ Unique ethnographic exhibits are collected here.
✅ You can see the personal belongings and documents of the outstanding scientist.
✅ The museum hosts traditional holidays and cultural events.
🎟 If you want to touch theculture and art of Georgia, be sure to visit this museum!
Frequently asked questions
Can I take photos in the museum?
📸 Yes, but it is recommended to check with the staff about the rules.
Are there guided tours?
🎤 Yes, there are guided tours for groups and individual visitors.
Can I participate in the Kalandoba celebration?
🎉 Yes, this is a traditional folk festival open to everyone.
How long does it take to visit the museum?
⏳ About 30-60 minutes, depending on your interest in the exhibition.
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