Blue bathhouse under repairs

Around Gorgasali Square in Tbilisi, Georgia, are a number of sulphur (steam) bathhouses. The Chreli Abano (motley bath) or Orbeliani Bath or Blue Bathhouse is undergoing renovations. It is a distinct bathhouse due to its blue mosaic (motley) tiled facade. It also has minarets and arched portals.

It dates to the second half of the 17th century, with the facade renovated in the mid-19th century. It is one of the oldest bathhouses in Tbilisi and therefore it was due for repairs. Repairs commenced in October 2014 and were due for completion in October 2015, but they will be delayed by a few months.

I last had a steam bath there in 2012. The plaque on the outer wall tells of its famous visitors. Russian writer Alexander Pushkin said ‘I have never in my life come across anything better than baths in Tiflis.’ French author Alexandre Dumas said in 1858, ‘A great sense of freedom and wellbeing permeated me. All my tiredness had gone and I felt strong enough to lift a mountain.’

After a hot spa, it is recommended to partake in tea. Peter the Great is supposed to have said, Sell your white stockings if you have to, but have tea after your bath.’

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