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Dadiani Palace
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historical-site
Dadiani Palace in Zugdidi was the residence of the princes of Mingrelia and is now one of the most significant museums in Georgia. The complex includes the palace of Princess Ekaterine Dadiani, the residence of her son Niko, and an extensive botanical garden laid out by European gardeners. The architecture shows a mix of Neo-Gothic and traditional Georgian elements, reflecting the 19th-century Western influence on the Mingrelian elite. The museum houses an extraordinary collection, including one of Napoleon's three death masks and valuable Christian relics such as the robe of the Virgin Mary. The Dadiani family was known for its close ties to European nobility and its promotion of art and education. Despite lootings during the Caucasian War and unrest in the 1990s, the palace survived as cultural heritage and features deep insight into the history of Western Georgia.
- Location: Georgia
- Top sights: Akaki Tsereteli · Culture House · Tied Gun
- Nearby: Senaki (29 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 25 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 101 | 86 | 108 | 74 | 65 | 76 | 69 | 68 | 111 | 121 | 119 | 112 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Dadiani Palace in Zugdidi is a museum showcasing the former living quarters of the princely family. The building and surrounding park are open for visits.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 10 am to 5 pm. Mondays are often closed; prior inquiry is recommended.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed in the exhibition rooms without flash. In the park and on the façade you can take pictures without restrictions.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for the tour of the state rooms and historical collection. If you explore the park, add another 30 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the palace with a visit to Zugdidi's Botanical Garden and nearby Martvili Canyon. Both destinations are within 30 minutes by car.
Getting there
The Dadiani Palace is located in central Zugdidi, about 2 km from the bus station. From Tbilisi, the journey by marshrutka takes about 4 hours.
Insider tip
Ask at the museum about guided tours of the former private apartments - these are often not freely accessible. In the park, take a walk among the old trees.
Geography
Facts
- The museum was officially established in 1921.
- The botanical garden houses rare plants from India and Japan.
- Prince Niko Dadiani bequeathed the palace and library to the community.
- The collection includes over 41,000 exhibits.
- Achille Murat, a relative of Napoleon, married into the Dadiani family.
- The robe of Mary is only shown publicly on major religious holidays.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Dadiani Palace (10)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is exhibited in the Dadiani Palace?
It houses valuable exhibits, including one of Napoleon's three death masks and religious relics.
Where is the palace located?
In Zugdidi, the capital of the Samegrelo region in western Georgia.
Does the palace have a garden?
Yes, the palace is surrounded by an extensive botanical garden.
What are the opening hours?
Usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; the museum is often closed on Mondays.
Why is the palace historically important?
It was the residence of the Dadiani princely family of Samegrelo, who were related to Napoleon by marriage.
Dadiani Palace: where is it located?
Dadiani Palace is located in Georgia.
Dadiani Palace: what is there to see?
Highlights include Akaki Tsereteli, Culture House, Tied Gun.
Dadiani Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Dadiani Palace: why is it worth visiting?
Dadiani Palace in Zugdidi was the residence of the princes of Mingrelia and is now one of the most significant museums in Georgia.
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