Soviet Empire Collapse: Tbilisi Walking Tour with a PhD
Overview
We track the rise of Joseph Stalin, born just 80 kilometers from Tbilisi, and investigate how the Soviet surveillance state functioned. You will see the sites of the Red Terror and the former KGB headquarters while discussing why the Georgian Orthodox Church remained a resilient institution.
One of the central focuses is the events of April 9, 1989. We visit the exact location where the Soviet collapse in Georgia began, analyzing the systemic failures that triggered the end of the Union. The tour concludes by examining the Rose Revolution and Georgia’s current geopolitical position between Europe and Russia.
Expect a deep dive into evidence and varied perspectives. This experience is limited to eight people to ensure every participant can ask questions and contribute to the dialogue.
This activity includes:
- First Republic Square
- Parliament of Georgia
- April 9 Memorial
- Ingorokva
- Liberty square
- Kashueti St. George Church
- Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi
- Administration of the Government of Georgia
- Shota Rustaveli Monument
- Pushkin Park
- PhD-level historian guide
Our Guides
On arrival
Please meet your guide at the main entrance of the Burberry Store on Liberty (Freedom) Square.
This is a prominent landmark in the center of Tbilisi and is located just a few minutes' walk from the Liberty Square Metro station.
As a friendly tip, we suggest arriving about 10 to 15 minutes before the tour starts to meet your guide and the rest of the group.
Our walking seminars run rain or shine, so it is a good idea to check the forecast and bring an umbrella or sunscreen as needed.
We are so excited to welcome you for this three-hour analytical conversation.
Things to note
• Walk: This experience involves a 3km walk at a steady pace on mostly flat ground. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes to ensure you are at ease throughout the tour.
• Walking Seminar: Please note this is an educational walking seminar where your guide provides commentary while moving, rather than a standard sightseeing stroll.
• Weather Conditions: Our tours run rain or shine. It is a good idea to check the forecast and bring an umbrella or rain jacket in winter, or sunscreen during the summer months.
• Arrive Early: To respect the schedule of all participants, the tour starts exactly on time. We suggest arriving 5 to 10 minutes early to meet your guide at the Burberry Store entrance.
• Historical Accuracy: The content is grounded in academic research and documented historical sources. Your guide presents evidence and analysis instead of propaganda, and we encourage you to ask questions or engage in friendly debate.
• Group Size: We limit our groups to a maximum of 8 people to maintain a high-quality, personal conversation for everyone involved.
Free Cancellation
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
