Chacha Tower Batumi: History and Demolition of the Fountain

Until recently, Adjara boasted one of Georgia's most unusual landmarks: the Chacha Tower. In 2012, a unique tower with a fountain appeared on the Batumi waterfront, from which genuine Georgian chacha, instead of water, flowed on a scheduled basis. This spectacle attracted tourists from all over the world, as tasting the national drink straight from the fountain was a true thrill.

The fountain "operated" once a week at 7:00 PM, delighting city guests for just 15 minutes. The day of its release was kept secret, and the chacha makers rotated to surprise visitors with a new flavor each time.

The idea to create such a fountain came to Batumi city authorities to attract tourists and promote the traditional Georgian drink. Similar wine or beer fountains exist in some cities around the world, but the Chacha Tower has become a unique symbol of Batumi.

However, in August 2024, the tower was dismantled.

🆕After the reconstruction, the area around the former tower was completely transformed—New Park opened there.

The new city park combined walking areas, paddle courts, a mini-football field, pedestrian paths, and spacious green spaces.

Thanks to the project, the area around the Alphabet Tower has become one of the most attractive recreation areas by the sea.

The Chacha Fountain

The Chacha Fountain was dedicated to one of the most famous Georgian drinks—chacha. This strong grape distillate is produced both at home and in factories.

Chacha is made from grapes, both at home and industrially. No Georgian feast is complete without grape vodka. The drink's strength ranges from 50 to 70 degrees.

In 2001, Georgia received a patent for several national products. The list included suluguni cheese, churchkhela, khachapuri, and several others. This strong grape liquor was also included.

Therefore, when preparing for the opening of the original fountain, it was decided that chacha would be served.

History and Architecture

Chacha Tower was built in 2012 as a replica of an ancient building that graced Batumi in the early 20th century. The tower's central section reached 25 meters in height, flanked by four smaller turrets. A large clock was installed at the 18-meter level, leading the structure to be known as the Clock Tower.

Chacha Tower's architectural design combined elements of Eastern and Turkish styles, lending it a distinctive character and blending harmoniously with the atmosphere of Primorsky Boulevard. An observation deck on the upper level offered picturesque views of Batumi, the Black Sea, and the mountain landscape. This spot was popular among tourists seeking panoramic views of the city.

Since 2015, the chacha fountain has been inactive, and the tower itself was in need of repair. Nevertheless, the structure remains one of Batumi's most striking architectural landmarks. In the evening, Chacha Tower was adorned with multicolored lighting, making it look especially impressive.

In August 2024, Chacha Tower was dismantled as part of a waterfront improvement project. Today, the tower remains a part of the city's history, a reminder of the creative ideas and Georgian charm that once attracted thousands of tourists.

What will replace Chacha Tower?

In August 2024, the tower was demolished as part of Batumi's urban infrastructure renewal program. In place of the now-iconic tower and fountain, city authorities plan to create a modern public space for recreation and active leisure.

In its place will be a green park with alleys, walking areas, and sports activities. The project includes bike paths, soccer and tennis courts, children's play areas, and cozy nooks for family recreation. The new park will become part of the landscaped waterfront and will be open to both Batumi residents and tourists seeking a place to relax and enjoy an active pastime. Thus, although Chacha Tower has become a thing of the past, its place will be taken by a modern space that will continue to delight visitors to the city—this time in a new format, reflecting Batumi's commitment to development and the creation of a comfortable urban environment.

project of the future park on the site of Chacha Tower (source: Silk Development).

Who is working on the new park project in Batumi?

Leading international specialists are developing a design for a future park on the site of the demolished Chacha Tower. The Danish landscape firm MASU Planning, renowned for its eco-friendly and modern urban design solutions, has been engaged to create the green space. The project partner is the renowned Japanese architectural firm Kengo Kuma Architects (KKAA), one of the most respected firms in the world, involved in major projects worldwide, including the innovative Silk Towers complex in Batumi.

According to the approved master plan, the park will occupy an area of ​​approximately two hectares and will become a logical extension of the green coastal area of ​​Batumi Boulevard. The design includes the preservation of existing trees and the planting of new species, the creation of sports and children's playgrounds, bike paths, and recreation areas.

Silk Development has financed the construction and implementation of all stages of the development. Work is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2024.

Information and the park design are provided by the official source – the Silk Development website.

The tower was demolished and a park will be built there, but Batumi is still full of places for beautiful photos.

Chacha Tower has long been a vibrant symbol of Batumi, reflecting the vibrant Georgian culture and an original approach to attracting tourists. Although the tower is now a thing of the past, its place will not remain empty. A modern park will soon be built there—a space for relaxation, sports, and strolls, giving the city a new attraction.

Batumi continues to change and develop, maintaining a balance between tradition and modernity. Visitors will be able to discover not only the new park but also many other attractions for which this cozy corner on the Black Sea coast is famous.

😊 Share your memories and opinions!

Have you ever seen Chacha Tower in Batumi? 📸 Perhaps you have vivid impressions or photos of this unusual tower with its Chacha Fountain? Tell us about it in the comments!

How do you feel about Chacha Tower now being consigned to history, and a modern park being built in its place? 🌳 Do you support these changes, or do you think the tower could be even more enjoyable for tourists and city residents?

Let's discuss it together—I'd love to hear your thoughts! ✨