The Palace of Darejan

The Palace of Queen Darejan, also known as Sachino Palace—a name derived from Georgian meaning “noble” or “distinguished”—is among the most iconic landmarks of Georgia and stands as one of only two surviving royal residences from the country’s regal past.

This elegant structure was built in 1776 for Queen Darejan, the third and final wife of Heraclius II, the ruling monarch of the united kingdoms of Kartli and Kakheti. Heraclius, a fearless warrior who never shrank from battle, showed unwavering courage on the battlefield—but at home, it was Darejan who reigned supreme, her formidable presence shaped by the proud traditions of her noble Dadiani lineage.

During that tumultuous era, Georgia was frequently besieged by mountain raiders, and the palace complex suffered repeated attacks and partial destruction. The most devastating blow came in the late 18th century, when the Persian ruler Agha Mohammad Khan launched a brutal invasion that nearly obliterated Tbilisi, the capital.

After Heraclius’s death, Queen Darejan continued to live in the palace for some time, until relocating to St. Petersburg in 1807. It was during this period that the former royal residence began to take on new life. Under the direction of Georgian Exarch Theophylact, a theological seminary and a Sunday school were established within its walls. In 1824, Sachino Palace underwent reconstruction, and the Transfiguration Monastery for men was founded on its grounds. At that time, one of the holiest relics housed in the palace was the remains of Saint Razhden the Protomartyr, which were later transferred to the Sioni Cathedral for safekeeping.

From 1862, a parish school for children operated on the premises. During the Soviet era, however, the palace fell into neglect. In the 1970s, it was briefly revived—first as the Museum of the 26 Baku Commissars and later as a local history museum for the Tbilisi district—before eventually being repurposed as a warehouse serving municipal needs.

Toward the end of the 20th century, the Palace of Darejan found itself once again in the cultural spotlight with the opening of the One-Actor Theatre. Various performances and plays were staged there, a fitting homage to its original inhabitants—King Heraclius and Queen Darejan—who were passionate patrons of the performing arts.

In 1991, the palace was officially transferred to the Georgian Patriarchate, and to this day, the Transfiguration Convent occupies the historic site.

The women’s convent of Peristsvaleba was established on the grounds of Darejan’s palace with the blessing of the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. The nuns who reside there are deeply devoted to charitable work and the service of those in need.

Since 2003, the monastery has operated the House of Mercy—a unique and multifaceted center that includes a hospice for palliative care, a charitable dining hall, a training center for future nurses, and a free outpatient clinic serving residents in difficult life circumstances. In addition, the convent is home to workshops where the sisters engage in traditional crafts such as weaving carpets, creating felt goods, and intricate embroidery.

Since 2013, the palace has also occasionally hosted rare and ceremonial knight investitures, lending an air of timeless grandeur to the historic grounds.

Constructed in the fortified style, the Sachino Palace was designed with defense in mind—an architectural response to the constant threat of enemy incursions. The entire palace complex was erected atop the remnants of a medieval fortress. Its mixed masonry—crafted from square bricks and cobblestones using time-honored methods—gives the structure a distinct historical texture.

In the early 20th century, Father Evgeny, one of the monastery’s abbots, adorned the palace interiors with hand-painted Renaissance-style murals. The complex also includes two chapels, both built in 1789—one in honor of Saint Heraclius, the other dedicated to Saint Daria.

The crown jewel of the Darejan Palace is its elegant, circular observation terrace, which today offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi. In former times, this same space served as a royal balcony. The delicate, sky-blue, semi-circular pergola is the first feature that catches the eye and remains one of the palace’s most captivating elements.

Both the palace and the terrace are open to visitors free of charge, although access to some of the palace’s interior rooms is restricted.

The Palace of Queen Darejan is perched atop a rocky cliff in the Avlabari district on the eastern side of Tbilisi. Owing to its lofty position and distinctive round terrace, the palace is often likened to a bird’s nest overlooking the city.

The closest metro stop is Avlabari Station on the M1 line. From there, it’s only a short walk to the palace, making it easily accessible for curious travelers eager to explore one of Tbilisi’s most storied landmarks.