Borjomi is celebrated as one of the finest resorts in Georgia. Visitors from around the globe come to its local sanatoriums to rejuvenate their health and refresh their spirits. The combination of a favorable climate and springs rich in beneficial mineral water has attracted vacationers to this unique region since ancient times. Naturally, tales of this extraordinary land have reached the royal family, and later, it became a retreat for the party elite of the USSR. Now, there are plans to transform the Likani Palace into a historical museum.
The Romanov Palace in Borjomi is currently undergoing restoration and is under protective watch. Visitors are not allowed into the park surrounding the palace. At present, guests can come to take photographs against the backdrop of the magnificent palace, but leisurely strolls through the shaded alleys of the overgrown park are only possible with permission from the hotel complex’s security, which is typically denied to tourists. Close access is restricted due to warning signs and barriers placed throughout the area.
The historic Likani complex will see a complete restoration of its external facades, interior spaces, and park area, including the greenhouse. In the near future, a state museum dedicated to the royal family will open within the palace. The exhibits will feature artifacts from that era, including personal belongings of the Romanovs. A highlight of the collection will be the study where Joseph Stalin conducted state affairs; it is said that he personally hammered in the nails for his overcoat and hat.
Nearby, there is another building, albeit on a smaller scale. It previously housed the treatment rooms of the sanatorium of the Fourth Directorate of the Ministry of Health of the Georgian SSR. Now, all the offices inside have been restored, and the facility once again welcomes guests. Another attraction in the area is the ancient iron bridge over the Kura River, although its condition is quite dilapidated, so it is advisable to avoid walking on it until restoration is complete.
In 1895, a summer palace for the Romanovs was constructed in the quiet village of Likani on the outskirts of Borjomi. Despite its seemingly significant name, it has only an indirect connection to the Russian emperors, as none of them ever visited. It was built for the grandson of Nicholas I, Prince Nikolai Mikhailovich, as a summer residence. The construction took three years to complete, with the project overseen by French architect Léon Benoit. The facades are designed in a Moorish style, and to support its operations, the first hydroelectric power station in the Russian Empire was installed on the Kura River.
Another Romanov family member who temporarily resided here was Tsarevich Georgy Alexandrovich. He chose a site for his villa in Abbas-Tumani, near Likani. After extensive travels, the Grand Duke contracted a serious illness and was sent to Georgia for treatment. His passion for travel influenced the villa’s design, which resembles a ship in many respects. Unfortunately, this structure was nearly completely destroyed by fire.
During the Soviet years, the palace and surrounding buildings were utilized for the needs of the party apparatus. Joseph Stalin himself came here to rest and recuperate, and legend has it that he personally hammered two nails—one into a table for his cap and one into the wall for his jacket, which still remain in place today. The small building adjacent to the main structure housed the treatment rooms of the former sanatorium.
For a long time after the 1990s, the estate fell into disrepair, and negotiations were held regarding its transfer to private management. Recently, a compromise was reached, and restoration work is now underway at the palace.
In addition to Stalin’s study with the nails, the palace houses a table once used by Peter I, known for his carpentry skills; a table gifted to the Russian emperor by Napoleon; an armchair presented by the Shah of Iran; and many other treasures. There is even a room adorned with butterflies, painted at the request of the Romanovs’ personal naturalist, inspired by the abundance of these creatures in the region. We eagerly await the opening of this remarkable site.
The Romanov Palace is located southwest of the city center and can be reached via Metskhiti Street. The journey typically takes about ten minutes, covering a distance of approximately three kilometers. Direct public transportation to the Likani Palace is not available, so tourists usually opt for a taxi from central Borjomi or rent a car.