This 1980 postcard features the Z. Paliashvili State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre in Tbilisi, Georgia, a prominent cultural landmark of the city.
What is shown on the postcard
The image depicts the ornate facade of the Tbilisi State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. The building is characterized by its distinctive Neo-Moorish architectural style, featuring striped masonry (alternating light and dark bands), pointed arches, intricate carved details, and two prominent domed turrets flanking the central facade area. The main entrance features a large arched opening with a balcony above it, also adorned with decorative elements.
Parts of the building’s roof structure, including other domed sections and a larger, simpler curved roof, are also visible. Lush green trees partially obscure the lower parts of the facade. In the background, hills covered with urban development and a communication tower can be seen under a clear sky. People are visible on the steps leading to the theatre and on the ground level.
Historical note
The current building of the Tbilisi Opera Theatre on Rustaveli Avenue was designed by architect Viktor Schroeter and constructed between 1896 and 1901. It replaced the original opera house, which was destroyed by fire in 1874. The new building adopted a distinct Moorish Revival architectural style.
Throughout its history, the theatre has been a central hub for Georgian opera and ballet. In 1937, it was officially named after the prominent Georgian composer Zakaria Paliashvili, whose work significantly contributed to national musical art.
Present day
The theatre continues to operate as the main opera and ballet venue in Georgia. It underwent extensive renovations between 2004 and 2016, which aimed to restore its historical grandeur while modernizing its facilities.
Today, it hosts a diverse repertoire of classical and contemporary productions, attracting both local and international audiences, and remains a prominent symbol of Georgian culture.
Location (map)
Address: Rustaveli Avenue, 25, Tbilisi, Georgia
Coordinates: 41.700138, 44.792518
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates determined by the location of the Zakaria Paliashvili Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre..
Questions and answers
- What year was this postcard issued? This postcard was issued in 1980.
- What architectural style is characteristic of the theatre building? The theatre building is characterized by a Neo-Moorish architectural style.
- After whom is the theatre named? The theatre is named after the prominent Georgian composer Zakaria Paliashvili.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Tbilisi from 1980.
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