The Tbilisi Auto Museum is a fascinating private museum in Tbilisi, Georgia, dedicated to a unique collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, primarily from the Soviet era. It offers a nostalgic journey back in time, showcasing vehicles that were once common on Soviet roads, as well as luxury cars owned by influential figures.
Collection and Exhibits:
Soviet-Era Vehicles: The museum boasts one of the most extensive collections of Soviet-era cars in the region. You’ll find a diverse range of models, from the compact and colorful Zaporozhets and Moskvitch to the more imposing Zil and Chaika limousines.
Historical Significance: Many of the vehicles on display have interesting backstories, having belonged to high-ranking Soviet officials or even historical figures like Georgia’s second president, Eduard Shevardnadze (his 1978 Gaz-14 Chaika is on display), and the Patriarch of All Georgia (his 1977 Gaz-13 Chaika). You can also see a black GAZ-M1 (known as “Emka”), a model widely used by the KGB in the 1930s, with one particular car having served Lavrentiy Beria.
Rare Finds: The museum features extremely rare exhibits, such as the restored GAZ-M1 and the GAZ-4 pickup truck, with only about five of the latter remaining worldwide. The Pobeda-phaeton (manufactured 1947-1953) is also a popular exhibit, allowing visitors to sit inside for photos.
International Additions: While primarily focused on Soviet vehicles, the museum also includes a few foreign cars with interesting histories, such as a 1928 Ford Model A that was reportedly featured in the 1967 film Bonnie and Clyde.
Motorcycle Collection: In addition to cars, the museum showcases a collection of motorcycles, including models like the Ural-2 M-63, Dnepr K-750, and Dnepr MV-750.
Restoration Work: All vehicles in the collection have been meticulously restored with original factory parts to maintain their authentic appearance. The museum also performs restoration work on-site.
Interactive Experience and Services:
Knowledgeable Guides: The museum’s founder and owner, Giorgi Mamulashvili, who has been collecting and restoring vintage cars for over 25 years, is known for his extensive knowledge and willingness to share insights with visitors. English-speaking guides are generally available.
Vintage Car Rentals: For a truly unique experience, the museum offers guests the rare opportunity to rent one of their vintage cars and drive it through the streets of Tbilisi.
Events and Filming Location: The museum also serves as a backdrop for music videos, advertisements, and photoshoots, and hosts school visits.
Location and Practical Information:
Address: The Tbilisi Auto Museum is located at 7, Auto Museum Street, Isani-Samgori district, near the East Point Shopping Mall. It’s a bit on the outskirts of the city, so a taxi or bus (Bus number 2 to Zhoresi Street, then a walk along Police Street) is recommended for getting there.
Opening Hours: The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and is closed on Mondays.
Ticket Price: Admission fees are generally affordable, around 5-10 GEL for adults, with reduced prices for children.
Visit Duration: A visit usually takes between 45 minutes to an hour.
Parking: Free, paved parking is available on-site.
The Tbilisi Auto Museum is a hidden gem for car enthusiasts and anyone interested in Soviet-era history and culture, offering a fascinating and often nostalgic glimpse into the automotive past.
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