What are the Georgian felt and sheepskin hats called?
The Svan cap, the papakha and the Tushetian hat.
Short answer
The round felt cap is the Svan hat, svanuri kudi in Georgian, worn in Svaneti and popular as a souvenir. The tall fur hat made of sheepskin is the papakha, papakhi in Georgian, and the patterned felt hat from Tusheti is the Tushetian hat. All three are sold in souvenir shops in Tbilisi, Mestia and Sighnaghi.
Why
- For centuries, mountain people made felt from sheep's wool to protect against cold and sun.
- The papakha was worn with the national costume, the chokha.
- The Svan hat has become a symbol of Svaneti.
Details
The Svan cap is light and easy to take home as a gift. When buying, look for natural felt and handmade work.
Tip
Svan felt hats are easy to buy in Mestia or at markets; check they're real felt.
What may differ
Prices in tourist spots are higher than at markets and neighbourhood shops.
People also ask
- What is the Svan hat called?
Sources
Information checked on October 3, 2026.
Georgian national costumeRelated questions
-
When are Mariamoba, Giorgoba and Tbilisoba celebrated?
Mariamoba, the Dormition of the Virgin, falls on 28 August and is a public holiday.
-
Which hand do Georgians wear their wedding ring on?
Most Georgians wear their wedding ring on the ring finger of the right hand, following Orthodox tradition.
-
Where can you see Georgian dance and hear polyphonic singing in Tbilisi?
Georgian dance is best seen at concerts by national ensembles such as the Sukhishvili ballet, and at restaurants with evening folk shows.
-
Is 8 March celebrated in Georgia?
Yes, 8 March, International Women's Day, is an official public holiday in Georgia, when women receive flowers and gifts.