Likani Palace | Tbilisi

Likani Palace is a former royal residence located in the town of Likani, within the Borjomi Gorge, Georgia.

This structure served as a summer residence for the Romanov dynasty.

Visual Characteristics

The palace is a three-story building constructed primarily of red brick and local stone. It features a prominent central tower with a pyramidal roof and decorative crenellations. Architectural elements include arched windows and balconies, indicative of a Neo-Moorish style. The surrounding grounds are landscaped with mature trees and formal gardens.

Location & Access Logistics

Likani Palace is situated approximately 160 kilometers west of Tbilisi, the capital city. Access from Tbilisi is via the E60 highway towards Kutaisi, then taking the exit for Borjomi. From the town of Borjomi, Likani is approximately 5 kilometers east, accessible via local roads. Public transport options include marshrutka (minibus) services from Tbilisi to Borjomi, followed by a local taxi or a 1-hour walk to the palace. Limited on-site parking is available.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Likani Palace began in 1892 and was completed in 1895. It was commissioned by Grand Duke Nicholas Mikhailovich of Russia, a cousin of Tsar Alexander III. The palace was designed by architect Albert Salzmann. Its original purpose was to serve as a summer retreat for the Romanov family, leveraging the region's mineral springs and cooler climate.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior architecture of the palace. Access to the interior is restricted as the palace is currently used as a government guesthouse. Walking the perimeter of the grounds and observing the surrounding landscape is permitted. Photography of the exterior is allowed.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not publicly available at the palace site. There are no food vendors on-site. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the Likani area. Shade is provided by mature trees on the grounds.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for exterior photography is during the morning or late afternoon when the sun angle provides optimal lighting on the brickwork. The months of May through September offer the most pleasant weather for visiting, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the palace was built on land previously owned by the Georgian royal family, the Bagrationi dynasty, before it was incorporated into the Russian Empire. Local lore suggests that the mineral springs in the Borjomi Gorge were discovered by hunters following a wounded deer.

Nearby Landmarks

• Borjomi Central Park (2.5km West)
• Borjomi Mineral Water Museum (2.8km West)
• St. George's Church, Likani (0.3km North)
• Green Monastery (Mtsvane Monasteri) (4.0km Northeast)