About Us
Royal Bath is part of Abanotubani’s historic heritage — a bathhouse that has preserved the character and atmosphere of old Tbilisi since the 18th century.
Its name is also tied to local tradition: according to historical accounts, this was one of King Erekle II’s favored places for rest. Today, its Eastern-inspired architecture, natural sulfur water, and centuries-old bathing culture remain at the heart of the Royal Bath experience.
We want every visit to Royal Bath to be more than just a moment of relaxation. Our aim is for guests to experience the unique atmosphere of Old Tbilisi and, for a few hours, step back in time to an era when sulfur baths were an integral part of the city's daily life.
History
The story of Tbilisi is closely connected to its natural hot springs. According to legend, their discovery is linked to King Vakhtang Gorgasali and to the beginnings of the city itself.
Archaeological findings in Abanotubani show that bathing culture has been part of life in Tbilisi for centuries. The city’s sulfur baths were described by travelers and writers from different periods, including Muhammad ibn Hawqal, Marco Polo, Vakhushti Bagrationi, and Alexandre Dumas.
In old Tbilisi, the bathhouse was far more than a place for bathing. People came here to meet, talk, relax, exchange news, and even discuss business.
Many of the bathhouses that survive in Abanotubani today reflect the influence of 17th- and 18th-century Persian architecture. Royal Bath developed within this historic setting and remains part of Tbilisi’s long-standing bathing tradition.
Sulfur Water
Tbilisi’s natural sulfur springs are one of the defining features of Abanotubani and the foundation of the city’s historic bathing culture.
Rising naturally from underground, the thermal water contains minerals and sulfur compounds and is known for its distinctive temperature and aroma. These springs shaped the bathhouse tradition that has existed in Tbilisi for centuries.
Warm sulfur water has long been associated with relaxation, easing physical tension, and a general sense of well-being — an experience that remains central to Abanotubani today.
Chemical Composition and Traditional Balneological Use
Tbilisi’s sulfur waters are naturally occurring sulfur-alkaline thermal mineral waters, known for their relatively stable temperature and mineral composition.
Traditionally, they have been used in balneological treatments and associated with:
- Certain joint and musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, spondylosis, and post-traumatic discomfort;
- Muscle and peripheral nerve discomfort, including neuralgia, neuritis, and radicular pain;
- Relaxation, relief of physical tension, and general well-being.