Queen Darejan's Palace, Tbilisi

Queen Darejan's Palace, also known as Sachino, is a historic landmark located on Urbnisi Street in Tbilisi. It holds significant historical and architectural value, constructed in 1776 for Queen Darejan, the wife of Erekle II, a prominent Georgian ruler of the time.

Located on the city's pier, Queen Darejan's Palace was partially reconstructed in the 19th century. In the 1770s, Queen Darejan had the palace and the Church of St. Irakli and St. Daria built on the remains of an ancient castle. The church later became the Transfiguration Monastery, or "Daria Monastery," and the palace became known as "Sachino."

After Queen Darejan's exile, the palace and church were acquired by Exarch Theophylact. He established a seminary and parish school there. However, under the communist regime, the monastery stopped functioning, and the church became a warehouse. Later, An Actor's Theater was established on the premises, hosting performances until the 1990s.

In 1991, the church was placed under the administration of the Patriarchate, marking a significant transition. The architectural ensemble consisting of the church, palace, and various auxiliary buildings was enclosed within a stone fence, forming a unified complex.

The lower section of Queen Darejan's Palace features fragmented stones in its tower's construction, while square bricks are layered in the upper part. Notably, the monument boasts a captivating decorative balcony encircling the upper portion of the tower, enhancing its artistic appeal. This balcony also offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding city, adding to the allure of the palace.