National Youth and Children's Palace, Tbilisi

The National Youth and Children's Palace, also known as Pioneer Palace, National Palace, or its original name - Viceroy's Palace, is a historic edifice situated on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi.

The building's origins date back to 1802 when the Russian government established its presence in Georgia. A new palace was built in 1807, showcasing Russian classicism and becoming the most magnificent building in Tbilisi at the time. The palace underwent multiple reconstructions, with architect Brownmiller transforming it into the true residence of the Commander-in-Chief in 1818. Between 1845 and 1847, architect Semyonov extensively renovated the palace, giving it a distinctive neoclassical appearance. The palace garden and a fountain were added during this period.

In 1865, Otto Jakob Simonson, a Swedish architect working in Tbilisi, embarked on a comprehensive reconstruction project that spanned four years. By 1869, the Viceroy's Palace assumed its final form, which is the structure we see today. Simonson substantially expanded upon Semyonov's design, breathing new life into the palace.

In 1917, the palace became the headquarters of the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic. On May 26, 1918, the federation dissolved in the palace. Later that day, Georgia's National Council met there and declared independence. Two days later, Azerbaijan also declared independence in the same palace. The Government of Georgia then occupied the palace, serving as the initial seat for the National Council and the Constituent Assembly. On February 21, 1921, the Democratic Republic's Constitution was adopted in these chambers. In 1937, the palace was entrusted to children, and on April 2, 1941, it opened its doors to them.