The Giorgi Chitaia Open Air Museum of Ethnography covers a wooded slope on Turtle Lake Road above Tbilisi’s Vake district. Founded in 1966 by ethnographer Giorgi Chitaia, it brings together dozens of relocated and reconstructed houses, granaries, and workshops from across Georgia. It is one of the few places where travelers can walk through the country’s regional building traditions in a single afternoon.
Paths climb past dwellings grouped by region, from Kartli and Kakheti in the east to Imereti, Racha, Samegrelo, and Guria in the west. The standout is the eastern Georgian darbazi, a timber house crowned by a stepped corbelled roof with a central smoke hole. Inside many buildings you’ll find carved wooden furniture, clay qvevri wine vessels, woven textiles, farm tools, and household utensils. Wine presses hollowed from single logs show how families once made wine at home. The hilltop setting offers city views, and pine shade keeps the walk pleasant even in summer.
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
Come on a weekday morning for the quietest paths. Spring and early autumn bring the best weather. The museum is traditionally closed on Mondays, but confirm hours and ticket prices before you go. Wear sturdy shoes, because the grounds are steep. The easiest route is the cable car from Vake Park up to Turtle Lake, followed by a short walk down the road to the entrance. A taxi or Bolt from central Tbilisi is also quick and inexpensive.
