The Prince Vasil Gabashvili House, located behind the building of the National Academy of Sciences of Georgia, was originally owned by Prince Vasily Gabashvili, a renowned lawyer and economist, who lived from 1847 to 1906. In the aftermath of World War II, the government embarked on a significant reconstruction project on Shota Rustaveli Avenue, aiming to create space for the headquarters of the 'Gruzugol' (Georgian coal) trust. During this time, the house's owner, Nikoloz Kipshidze, a well-known therapist, personally appealed to Joseph Stalin to save the building from destruction. According to family accounts, Stalin gave his word that the house would be preserved. Designed and constructed by architect Cornell Tatishchev between 1895 and 1896, the house exhibits a fusion of rococo and baroque architectural styles. One of its distinctive features is the intricate carved wooden balconies, which are unparalleled in Tbilisi.