Iakob Gogebashvili House-Museum

Iakob Gogebashvili House-Museum is in Variani, Gori Municipality, in the Shida Kartli region. Dedicated to the Georgian educator, children's writer and public figure, it brings together books, photographs and personal belongings that tell the story of his life and his contribution to education in Georgia.

History

Iakob Gogebashvili was born in Variani in 1840. Teaching children in their native language and creating accessible schoolbooks were central to his work. His Georgian primer, Deda Ena (Mother Tongue), published in 1876, became one of the country's best-known textbooks and a familiar part of school life for generations.

The house-museum opened on 14 December 1958, and the residential house was restored in 1990. A visit connects Gogebashvili's educational ideas with his personal story and the everyday life of his time.

What to see

The collection includes photographs, documents, textbooks and personal memorabilia. Together, they trace Gogebashvili's childhood, teaching career and writing. The traditional living room, kitchen and wine cellar offer another perspective on the household life of the period.

In the courtyard, an amphitheatre and sculptures by Gia Japaridze draw on Gogebashvili's stories. The museum also hosts educational and literary activities, including the annual Iakoboba celebration. It is an interesting stop for visitors curious about Georgian literature, as well as families and school groups.

Planning your visit

The museum is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–18:00, and closed on Mondays. Allow about an hour to look around. Guided tours are available in Georgian. Contact the museum on +995 598 65 72 63 to arrange a group visit or confirm holiday opening hours.

How to get there

You can reach Variani from Gori by car or taxi. The museum is in the village centre, beside the Gori–Nikozi road. A visit can be combined with the Shindisi Heroes Memorial and, on returning to Gori, Gori Fortress.