Lado Gudiashvili Square in Tbilisi

Lado Gudiashvili Square is one of the most atmospheric small squares in Old Tbilisi. Located between the historic Kala and Sololaki areas, only a short walk from Freedom Square, it is surrounded by restored 19th-century buildings, decorative balconies and narrow streets that reveal a quieter side of the city centre.

The square is not a major monument that requires a long visit. Its appeal lies in the setting: layers of Tbilisi architecture, a romantic fountain, shaded seating and several streets leading deeper into the historic neighbourhoods. It is an easy and worthwhile stop while exploring Old Tbilisi on foot.

Why Visit Lado Gudiashvili Square?

Gudiashvili Square combines several features that make Old Tbilisi distinctive: wooden balconies, European and Oriental architectural details, old residential buildings and a compact public space hidden close to the busiest tourist routes.

Visitors come here to photograph the restored façades, see the fountain with two lovers sheltering beneath an umbrella and take a short break before continuing towards Sololaki, Betlemi or Abanotubani. The square is especially attractive in the morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and the streets are usually calmer.

A Brief History of Gudiashvili Square

The history of the square reaches back approximately 600 years. It appeared on an 18th-century map of Tbilisi as Bezhana Garden and was known by several other names during different periods, including Moghnisi, Abbas-Abad and Alaverdov Square.

The surrounding neighbourhood changed as Tbilisi expanded beyond its old defensive walls, but the square retained its compact shape and connection with the nearby lanes. Most of the buildings visitors see around it today date from the 19th century.

In 1988, the square received its present name in honour of Lado Gudiashvili, one of Georgia’s most celebrated 20th-century painters.

Restoration and Architecture

By the early 21st century, a number of buildings around the square had deteriorated and required structural repair. A large rehabilitation project covering Gudiashvili Square and the adjoining streets began in 2018. It included the restoration and reinforcement of historic buildings, façades, balconies, roofs, foundations and old brick cellars, as well as improvements to the surrounding public space.

Today, the square provides a compact introduction to the layered architecture of Tbilisi. Look beyond the freshly restored façades and notice the mixture of carved wooden balconies, open galleries, classical details, ornamental ironwork and influences associated with both Georgian and Oriental building traditions.

What to See at Gudiashvili Square

The “First Rain” Fountain

The square’s best-known feature is the romantic sculpture often called “First Rain.” It depicts a couple embracing beneath an umbrella and forms part of a small fountain. The sculpture has become a popular photo spot and gives the square its romantic character.

The Blue House

One of the square’s most important buildings stands at No. 2 and is commonly known as the Blue House or Lermontov House. Different sections were built during the 19th century, and the building combines classical, Georgian and Oriental architectural elements.

It once accommodated the headquarters of the Russian Imperial Army and an officers’ hotel. Russian poet Mikhail Lermontov is reported to have stayed there in 1838. During the Soviet period, the building was associated with the newspaper Literary Georgia.

Historic Balconies and Side Streets

The streets meeting at the square are part of the experience. Beglar Akhospireli, Abo Tbileli, Gia Abesadze and Lermontov streets lead towards different corners of Old Tbilisi and Sololaki. Slow down and look at the entrances, balconies, courtyards and decorative details rather than treating the square as a single photo stop.

Who Was Lado Gudiashvili?

Lado Gudiashvili was a major Georgian painter whose work was closely connected with the character, people and street life of old Tbilisi. His paintings often portrayed kintos, craftsmen, musicians, dancers and other figures associated with the city’s traditional urban culture.

He also participated in Tbilisi’s early 20th-century artistic and avant-garde circles. Naming the square after him is especially fitting because the surrounding architecture and neighbourhood atmosphere reflect the city that inspired much of his work.

Discover Gudiashvili Square on the Hidden Tbilisi Tour

Gudiashvili Square is beautiful to visit independently, but many details are easy to miss without knowing the stories behind the buildings and surrounding streets.

The Hidden Tbilisi Tour by Tbilisi Free Walking Tours visits the square as part of a route focused on historic residential houses, traditional courtyards, unusual entrances, architecture and local stories beyond the city’s main landmarks. It is a good option for travellers who want to understand the less obvious side of Old Tbilisi rather than simply pass through it.

How to Get to Lado Gudiashvili Square

From Freedom Square

The easiest route begins at Freedom Square. Use Liberty Square Metro Station, then walk into the streets behind Tbilisi City Hall towards Old Tbilisi and Sololaki. Gudiashvili Square is only a short walk away.

By Taxi

Enter “Lado Gudiashvili Square” in your taxi application. Because the surrounding streets are narrow and traffic access may be limited, the driver may leave you a short walk from the square.

On Foot

The square is easy to include in a walking route through central Tbilisi. It can be reached from Kote Abkhazi Street, Sololaki, Betlemi or Abanotubani. The square itself is compact, although some nearby historic streets have slopes or uneven paving.

Practical Information

• Location: Old Tbilisi, between the Kala and Sololaki areas
• Georgian name: ლადო გუდიაშვილის მოედანი
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours
• Entrance fee: Free
• Nearest metro station: Liberty Square
• Recommended visit time: 20–30 minutes
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon
• Good for: Architecture, photography, a short rest and walking routes through Old Tbilisi

The square is an outdoor public space, so no ticket or reservation is required. Cafés and businesses in the surrounding area keep their own opening hours.

Attractions Near Gudiashvili Square

Gudiashvili Square can easily be combined with several nearby attractions:

• Georgian National Museum – a useful introduction to Georgia’s history, archaeology and culture.
• Mother of Georgia – the symbolic monument overlooking Tbilisi from Sololaki Hill.
• Tbilisi Sulfur Baths – the historic bath district in Abanotubani.
• Bridge of Peace – a modern pedestrian bridge connecting Old Tbilisi with Rike Park.

A pleasant route is to begin at Freedom Square, visit Gudiashvili Square, continue through Betlemi and then descend towards Abanotubani and the sulfur baths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lado Gudiashvili Square free to visit?

Yes. Gudiashvili Square is a public outdoor space with no entrance fee and is accessible at any time.

Is Gudiashvili Square worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy architecture, photography and quieter historic streets. The square is small, but it offers a good introduction to the residential character of Old Tbilisi and Sololaki.

How long should I spend at Gudiashvili Square?

Allow around 20–30 minutes to see the fountain, examine the surrounding buildings and take photographs. You may spend longer if you explore the adjoining streets or stop at a nearby café.

Is Lado Gudiashvili Square Worth Adding to Your Tbilisi Itinerary?

Lado Gudiashvili Square is an excellent short stop for visitors who want to look beyond Tbilisi’s largest landmarks. Its restored architecture, romantic fountain and network of historic streets make it particularly suitable for a walking route through Old Tbilisi.

Rather than visiting it as an isolated attraction, combine the square with Freedom Square, Sololaki, Betlemi and Abanotubani. Together, these areas reveal how different architectural styles, communities and periods of history shaped the character of central Tbilisi.