Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art

Introduction

Located in the heart of Tbilisi on the historic Rustaveli Avenue, the Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art (MoMA Tbilisi) stands as a vibrant hub for contemporary art lovers and cultural explorers. Founded in 2012 by the acclaimed Georgian-Russian artist Zurab Tsereteli, this museum is dedicated to preserving Georgia’s modern artistic legacy while fostering international artistic exchange. Its neoclassical building, thoughtfully restored and equipped with modern amenities, houses an extensive collection of Tsereteli’s works alongside rotating exhibitions from prominent Georgian and international artists. This definitive guide provides all essential information about visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, guided tours, and nearby attractions to help you plan an enriching visit.

For the latest updates and detailed information, visit the official MoMA Tbilisi website. Additional insights can be found in articles from the Georgian Journal and Georgia Today.

History and Vision

The Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art was established in 2012 as a testament to Zurab Tsereteli’s enduring legacy and his commitment to promoting contemporary art in Georgia. Tsereteli, born in Tbilisi in 1934, is internationally recognized for his monumental sculptures, expressive paintings, and his role as President of the Russian Academy of Arts. The museum’s primary aim is to provide a dedicated space for modern and contemporary art, supporting both Georgian and international artists, and to serve as a dynamic cultural hub for education, innovation, and creative exchange (Georgia Today).

Location & Accessibility

Address: 27 Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi, Georgia

The museum is centrally located on Rustaveli Avenue, one of Tbilisi’s most prominent boulevards, placing it within walking distance of major historical and cultural sites. It occupies a beautifully restored early 20th-century neoclassical building with modern upgrades including:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and elevators
• Accessible restrooms on each floor
• Public transport connections (Rustaveli Metro Station is a 5-minute walk)
• Limited street parking nearby (public transport is recommended due to congestion)

For more on accessibility, see MoMA Tbilisi Accessibility.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Closed on Mondays and select public holidays (Official Museum Hours)

Admission Fees:

• Adults: 10 GEL (as of June 2025: some sources note 15 GEL; check the official website for updates)
• Students/Seniors: Discounted rates available
• Children under 6: Free
• Audio guides (Georgian, English, Russian): 5 GEL extra
• Group discounts available for parties of 10 or more

Tickets: Purchase at the museum ticket desk or online via the official website.

Museum Layout and Facilities

Spanning four floors and over 3,500 square meters, the museum includes:

• Ground Floor: Main lobby, ticketing, museum shop, café, and temporary exhibition spaces
• First & Second Floors: Permanent collection galleries (Tsereteli’s works and modern Georgian art)
• Third Floor: Rotating exhibitions, educational spaces, event halls, and photographic archives

Amenities:

• Gift shop with art books and souvenirs
• Café serving Georgian pastries and coffee
• Free Wi-Fi
• Lockers and cloakroom
• Multilingual staff (Georgian, English, Russian)

Collection Highlights

Signature Works

• Over 300 works by Zurab Tsereteli: monumental sculptures, paintings, graphic art, enamels, mosaics, stained glass, and reliefs
• Interactive pieces like “The Apple” and large-scale installations such as “Argonauts” (2005)
• Whimsical, Chaplin-inspired artworks reflecting Tsereteli’s playful side

Temporary Exhibitions

• 8–12 exhibitions annually, featuring both Georgian and international artists (e.g., Halla bint Khalid’s “Tasleemah,” Rodolfo Villaplana’s “DUCHAMP IS DEAD”)
• Rotating displays of contemporary works across various media

Photographic Archive

• Over 250 photographs from Tsereteli’s private collection, documenting his creative journey and encounters with cultural icons

Family and Interactive Spaces

• Children’s corner with creative workshops and masterclasses
• Outdoor sculpture garden ideal for photos and interactive exploration

Exhibitions, Events, and Educational Programs

MoMA Tbilisi is committed to education and community outreach:

• Guided Tours: In Georgian, English, and Russian; book in advance
• Workshops & Masterclasses: For children, students, and families
• Lectures & Talks: On art history, techniques, and Tsereteli’s legacy
• Public Programs: Film screenings, artist talks, and family events

See Educational Programs for more.

Visitor Services & Accessibility

The museum ensures an inclusive and comfortable visit:

• Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms on all floors
• Tactile guides, large-print materials, audio descriptions, and sign language interpretation (on request)
• Sensory-friendly hours for visitors with sensory sensitivities
• First aid, lost & found, and multilingual assistance

Accessibility Services

Tips for Visitors

• Visit weekday mornings for a quieter experience
• Allocate 1.5–2 hours for a comprehensive tour
• Photography allowed in most areas (no flash/tripods; check for restrictions in temporary exhibitions)
• Food and drink only in the café
• Strollers welcome; family-friendly programming available
• Respect museum rules and posted photography guidelines

Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your visit by exploring nearby cultural sites:

• Rustaveli Theatre: 3-minute walk (Rustaveli Theatre)
• Georgian National Museum: 10-minute walk (Georgian National Museum)
• Dmitri Shevardnadze National Gallery: Noted for classical and European masterpieces
• Numerous cafés and restaurants along Rustaveli Avenue

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM; closed Mondays and select holidays.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase at the ticket desk or online at the official website.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages; advance booking recommended.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, for personal use in most areas; restrictions may apply to some exhibitions.

Q: Is MoMA Tbilisi family-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Children’s workshops and family activities are offered.

Plan Your Visit & Stay Connected

For the latest information on events, visiting hours, and special programs, visit the Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art official site, call +995 32 293 21 21, or email [email protected].
Download the Audiala app for audio tours and interactive guides. Follow the museum on social media for updates and exhibition news.

Explore more about Tbilisi’s cultural scene in our articles: Top Museums in Tbilisi and Guide to Tbilisi Historical Sites.