Old Batumi: what to see in the historic center?
From the port to Nuri Lake: lighthouse, mosque, mansions and colonnade.
Short answer
Old Batumi runs from the port to Nuri Lake and holds the 1863 lighthouse, the 1866 Orta Jami Mosque, old mansions, colonnades and a drama theater. Georgia Travel also lists modernist and constructivist buildings. In the northeastern corner of the old district stand the Alphabet Tower, the Chacha Tower and the kinetic sculpture Ali and Nino.
Why
- Batumi grew around its port: it became part of the Russian Empire in 1878 and held porto-franco status in 1878–1886.
- The oil pipeline of 1897–1907 and the Baku-Batumi railway made the port internationally important.
- Some heritage has been damaged by development and tourism growth since the 2010s, but many streets and buildings remain.
Details
Per Georgia Travel, the colonnades at the boulevard's exit to the sea were set up in 1930 from a project brought from Italy. The Orta Jami Mosque on Kutaisi Street was built in 1866 and is called the oldest Muslim prayer house in the city. The pharmacy at Memed Abashidze 36 is mentioned by Knut Hamsun, and the Intourist hotel at Egnate Ninoshvili 11 was built in 1939 in the constructivist style. The drama theater at Shota Rustaveli 1 opened in 1952.
Nearby, see May 6 Park, the Botanical Garden and the general guide what to see in Batumi.
Tip
Start at the port and lighthouse, then walk along Memed Abashidze Street toward Nuri Lake, where the historic houses are concentrated.
What may differ
Street names and the condition of buildings can change, and some historic houses are in poor repair or rebuilt.
Common misconception
Batumi has no historic center, only new high-rises.
What actually happens
Georgia Travel says development since the 2010s has damaged some heritage, but many separate streets and distinctive buildings remain in the old district.
People also ask
- What is there to see in the old town of Batumi?
Sources
- Georgia Travel: Old BatumiChecked at:
This answer is for reference and is based on the georgia.travel page as of the check date. Check opening hours and visiting conditions locally.
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