Firuza – a magnificent Persian palace

Georgia is known for its special architecture and old houses. Each house has its own story. You will see many interesting buildings here, especially in Tbilisi.

Now I would like to tell you about Mirza Riza Khan's houses. He was the Consul of Iran in Georgia from 1889 to 1894. His first house is located on Chonkadze Street in Tbilisi and another one in Borjomi. Both of them are built in a Persian style, which attracts many visitors' attention. These places have a label where it is written: "Mirza Riza Khan." The most outstanding building is Mirza's summer house in Borjomi. It is called "Firuza," and it has a charming turquoise color.

Mirza Riza Khan and a little boy Vano

Mirza was a kind, honest, and very diplomatic person. He tells us many interesting stories in his book: When he was very young, Mirza arrived in Tbilisi to study the Russian language. One little boy, Vano, was studying with him. He had a habit of bringing candy and giving it to everybody, including Mirza.

However, the other children were not happy about that fact, because Mirza had a different religion. Vano replied: "Once Mirza becomes the Consul, then he will celebrate the Shah's birthday in his own house, and he will invite me. There will be many fireworks, and he will invite me for sweets…."

Twenty years later, he became the Consul and ordered to search for this little boy Vano and invited him to his house. While Mirza and Vano were relaxing on the balcony, watching the fireworks, and eating candies, Mirza remembered Vano's prophetic words. He expressed his big respect for this boy and thanked him. Vano always believed in Mirza's success.

The story of Firuza

The Borjomi house “Firuza” was built in 1892 by order of Mirza. If you ask locals, they will tell you that the Consul of Iran made this house for his girlfriend.

However, according to the official version, it was a summer house, just for his holidays. This Persian style house has very beautiful decorative paintings and extraordinary mirrors. There are wooden windows with colorful glasses and interesting details that are very rare to find in Georgia.

It is said that Iranian masters were responsible for these unique decorations. That is why this house is valuable, not only for Georgians but also for the Iranian cultural heritage.

Firuza nowadays

Today, Firuza is remade as a hotel, which is operated by the Golden Tulip brand. What is most important, the building maintained its old historical appearance and cultural value. Nowadays, visitors can have the pleasure of treatment procedures as well, which are carried out using Borjomi mineral water.

Golden Tulip Borjomi Hotel

48, 9 Aprili street, 1200 Borjomi