MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF GEORGIA

The mentioned building is distinctive and one of the first samples of the popular European modern style (Art Nouveau) architecture of the beginning of the twentieth century in the region. The building is characterized by high artistic value, which is revealed in its architectural concept, as well as in individual details. Like the facades decorated in Art Nouveau style, its interior is important, it is richly decorated and makes an indelible impression on the visitor. The project of the building was made by the famous architect Mikhail Ohanjanov, who supervised the construction works himself. At the last stage of designing and construction, he was assisted by architect I. Kolchin and engineer S. Razgildev.

The artistic sculptural forms on the facade were made by the Tbilisi company "Novak". The construction lasted for five years (1910-1915). Initially, the building had two floors, and in 1959-1960, a third floor was added to it. For years, the building was occupied by the National Bank.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia was located in the mentioned building in 2022 It is significant that in 2024, the address of the abovementioned building was changed to 1, Sulkhan-Saba St./3-5, Leonidze Street.

Sulkhan-Saba Street originally was called Irakli Lane (1850s), then "Freilin" (1884), then "Saba-Sulkhani" Street (1924), only from the middle of the 20th century, it was  given the  name of "Sulkhan-Saba".

Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani (1658-1725) - a great Georgian public figure and diplomat, who made his way to Europe three centuries ago, and whose ambassadorship contributed to the formation of Georgia's political orientation in a rather difficult and contradictory era. The European aspiration of modern Georgia is a kind of continuation and result of the diplomatic efforts of Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani. Today, Georgian diplomats, based on their experience and European values, implement the foreign policy course of our country, unwaveringly protect our national interests and strengthen Georgia's reputation in the international arena.

In 2017, conservation/restoration works of the building were carried out. 

The interior ceiling is painted with sketches of four compositions, which have special content. The compositions depict the journey of the first Georgian diplomat Sulkhan Saba Orbeliani to Europe and his meeting with  King Louis XIV of France, and also the activities of the famous Georgian diplomat Nikoloz Cholokashvili (Nikipore Irbakhi), the publisher of the first printed Georgian book in  Rome, in 1629.