Museum of Religions

International Black Sea University

Project idea

"A fish does not know it is in water"

The term which is the base of the concept of the project originates from the Eastern philosophy. The idea of the museum is rooted in the belief that a human, like a fish unaware of its environment, can not understand his/her true self. Just as a fish is surrounded by water but cannot see it, people are immersed in the beliefs, cultural norms or stereotypes that govern their lives. Liberation from these invisible frames is the purpose of the museum.

Project description

Museum of Religions is located in Tbilisi, Georgia where religion is very sensitive subject for the people. The building is surrounded by green space and there are water puddles on the area as a symbol of self-reflection. The project has three main levels above the ground representing three stages of life of a human from inner awakening to the enlightenment.
Underground level : Religious Art Exhibition Space
Hidden beneath the earth, religious art exhibition space invites visitors to explore contemporary religious artworks in a quiet, reflective atmosphere.
First Level: Genesis
"And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light." Genesis 1:3 (NIV)
In the Bible, light marks the beginning of creation. Here, the warm light from the museum symbolizes a new beginning - a journey toward self-awareness, guiding visitors to discover and reflect. The journey of self-awareness begins here. This level represents the first phase of life, where a person starts to explore their identity, purpose and connection to the world.
Second Level: Dharma
Dharma is a term rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, particularly in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. It refers to the moral law and cosmic order that guides individuals in living a righteous life. Dharma represents the path of spiritual law and guidance, inviting visitors to explore the teachings of the four major religions: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. Each religious space features a ramp leading upward, symbolizing the path of spiritual progress.
Third Level: Enlightenment
This level represents the realization that there are no separate Hell and Paradise, but one spiritual state where suffering and pleasure arise from one's inner nature. The space reflects this philosophy by using transitional light, creating a natural atmosphere instead of separating light and dark spaces for Paradise and Hell. Visitors must pass through the religious spaces to reach this level. In the center of the space lies a garden-like area, representing the Garden of Eden. The garden is not accessible for visitors, reflecting the sacred concept of MA from Japanese culture where empty space is seen as a sacred space where the divine - through light, rain or other natural elements - can enter.

Technical information

The main design element of the building is the stair which is facade element at the same time. The museum walls are covered with white paint and copper is chosen for the circulation that reflects light. The circulation is the key in the project as it symbolizes the path to enlightenment. The entire circulation is one continuous path.