The Georgian Nobility Gymnasium in Tbilisi, commissioned in 1899 and completed under his supervision in 1906, stands as the most prominent project by architect Simon Kldiashvili. This edifice, which transitioned into the primary building of Tbilisi State University, represents his contribution to the urban landscape of Georgia during the early twentieth century.
Formative Years and Education
Born in 1865 in Kutaisi, Simon Kldiashvili was the son of Grigol Kldiashvili, a Russian army officer, and Eprosine Kldiashvili, a journalist and actress. He belonged to a family with intellectual connections, including his uncle, the Georgian public figure Dimitri Kipiani. Kldiashvili pursued formal training in Russia, graduating from the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture in 1895.
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Following his graduation, Kldiashvili held a short-term private practice within the Kostroma Governorate. By 1896, he accepted a position as the chief architect for the town of Sukhumi. His career later centered in Tbilisi, where he became a prominent figure in the local Art Nouveau movement. His portfolio featured various eclectic structures located throughout the city center.
Restoration and Exploration
Beyond his new construction projects, Kldiashvili engaged in the refurbishment of existing historical properties. In 1902, he directed the renovation of the Kobulashvili mansion, which currently serves as the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts. His professional interests also included archaeology; he accompanied Ekvtime Takaishvili on research expeditions to the Tao-Klarjeti region in 1902 and the Racha-Lechkhumi province in 1910.
Legacy
Kldiashvili died in 1920 at the age of 55. His remains are interred at the Didube Pantheon in Tbilisi. His work remains part of the architectural fabric of the city, utilized by institutions that continue to function decades after his death.
Fast facts
- Born: 1865, Kutaisi
- Died: 1920
- Education: Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture
- Notable Project: Tbilisi State University
- Key Restoration: Kobulashvili mansion
- Burial Site: Didube Pantheon, Tbilisi
Questions readers ask
What is the current use of the Kobulashvili mansion?
The building now serves as the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts.
Where is Simon Kldiashvili buried?
He is buried at the Didube Pantheon in Tbilisi.
Achievements
- Notable work: Tbilisi State University
- Trained at Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture