Although the term "Old Tbilisi" has long been used to denote the oldest part of the city, it was only in 2007 that it became an official administrative distinct, while also incorporating several historical neighbourhoods formerly included in the districts of Mtatsminda-Krtsanisi, Isani-Samgori, and Didube-Chugureti.

[1] The district is located on both sides of the Kura River and is dominated by Mount Mtatsminda, Narikala fortress and the Kartlis Deda monument.

It chiefly represents a 19th-century urban fabric with largely eclectic architecture which includes the buildings and structures from the 5th to the 20th century.

Old Tbilisi has been the centre of a thriving art community with artist Giovanni Vepkhavadze known for specializing in painting many street scenes in the district.

The idea was to renew old and damaged houses and cobbled streets to make Old Tbilisi more attractive for tourists and visitors.