Batumi is a multi-seasonal destination, where there’s always something to do – no matter when you decide to stop by. The city is in Ajara, one of Georgia’s most attractive regions, and a popular tourist destination. Located next to the Black Sea, the city is distinguished by its mix of European and Asian architecture, combining old squares with modern buildings.
Batumi Culture
The city is also home to several cultural events. Music fans will want to check out Checkin Georgia and the Black Sea Jazz Festival, where the biggest jazz names will be on stage. Movie fans will love the Batumi International Art House Film Festival, while wine connoisseurs will want to visit the city’s Homemade Wine Festival. In addition, there are plenty of museums and art galleries one can visit year-round.
Sightseeing
For the perfect view of the city, you can head to Batumi Cable Way and see the city’s skyline from a cable car, although there are plenty of other spectacular sites if you’d prefer to keep your feet on the ground, like the one-of-a-kind mosaic at Piazza Square. Make sure to visit Europe Square too, an area that has hosted a myriad of international concerts.
The city is also close to several protected nature parks, as well as the Goderdzi ski resort. For 6 months of the year, you can enjoy international-level skiing on the resort’s long ski run.
The Batumi Botanical Garden is a sprawling 108-hectare oasis located just 9 kilometers north of Batumi, the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara. Established in 1912 by the renowned botanist and geographer Andrey Krasnov, this garden is a treasure trove of diverse flora from around the world.
Situated at Mtsvane Kontskhi (also known as “The Green Cape”), the garden overlooks the Black Sea. Its elevation ranges from 0 to 220 meters above sea level. Once covered by Kolkheti-type forests (including beech, chestnut, and linden), the area now hosts an impressive collection of plant species.
Exploring the Garden
Visitors can explore themed sections within the garden, each showcasing different plant families and ecosystems. Notable features include the Australian, North American, Mexican, and East Asian sections. The garden’s diverse terrain offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Address, opening hours & tickets
Address: Green Cape, Ajara
Opening hours: Mon-Sun / 09:00 – 19:30
Batumi Boulevard, affectionately known as “Boulevard of Love,” stretches along the coastline, inviting visitors to unwind by the sea. The palm-lined promenade features charming sculptures, whimsical fountains, and cozy cafes. Rent a bike or simply take a stroll, breathing in the salty breeze.
Batumi Colonnades
Seek shade beneath the elegant colonnades lining the Boulevard. These graceful arches provide respite from the sun, framing views of the sea and the distant horizon. Capture Instagram-worthy moments against this architectural backdrop.
Transport yourself to Italy at Piazza Square Batumi! This vibrant square boasts colorful buildings adorned with intricate balconies. Cafes spill onto the cobblestone streets, and live performances add to the lively atmosphere. Sip a cappuccino and soak in the Mediterranean vibes.
The Alphabetic Tower, also known as the Georgian Alphabet Monument, stands tall in Batumi. This iconic structure, inaugurated in December 2011, pays homage to the Georgian alphabet—a script with roots dating back to the 5th century.
Design and Symbolism
The Alphabetic Tower reaches a height of 130 meters (approximately 427 feet). Its design draws inspiration from the double helix pattern of DNA, intertwining two helix bands. These bands ascend the tower, each adorned with 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet. Each letter, standing at 4 meters tall, is meticulously crafted from aluminum.
The Crown and the Silver Sphere
At the heart of the tower lies an exposed elevator shaft leading to the pinnacle. Here, perched like a celestial orb, rests a colossal silver sphere. This hollow circular section structure houses various rooms distributed across different floors.
The Transfer Floor is accessible via panoramic lifts. This floor serves as the gateway to other levels. On the third floor, a revolving ring restaurant offers diners a 360-degree panoramic view of the Black Sea.
Europe Square houses the iconic Neptune Fountain—a masterpiece of water and stone. By day, it’s a meeting point for locals and tourists alike. By night, when illuminated, it becomes a magical spectacle. Pose for photos or simply admire its grandeur.
In Europe Square, the Astronomical Clock blends timekeeping with celestial wonder. Its intricate gears and moving parts tell more than just the hour—they evoke curiosity and wonder. Gather around and watch as time unfolds before your eyes.
Address: 25 Memed Abashidze Ave
The Medea Statue, an iconic monument in the city, stands as a testament to both ancient mythology and modern art. Created by the renowned Georgian sculptor Davit Khmalazde, this bronze sculpture commemorates Medea, a Colchian princess whose story intertwines with the Greek hero Jason. Let’s delve into the significance, history, and artistic features of this captivating statue.
The Medea Statue was unveiled on July 6, 2007, in a ceremony attended by the President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili. Its prominent location in the city ensures that visitors and locals alike can appreciate its significance and artistic beauty.
Symbolism and Legacy
Medea is best known for her pivotal role in the myth of the Golden Fleece. According to legend, she aided Jason in his quest to retrieve the fleece, an act that symbolized the introduction of civilization to Colchis, the ancient kingdom encompassing the region where Batumi now lies. The statue serves as a visual representation of this enduring legacy, celebrating Medea’s influence on the prosperity and wealth of Colchis.
Artistic Details
Khmalazde’s artistic vision comes to life in the Medea Statue. Medea stands tall, her gaze fixed on the horizon. Her posture exudes strength and determination, reflecting her pivotal role in the mythological narrative.
The sculptor skillfully captures the movement of Medea’s robes, emphasizing her ethereal and otherworldly nature. The flowing lines evoke both grace and mystery. Khmalazde pays attention to intricate details, such as the delicate folds of Medea’s garments and the texture of her hair. These nuances contribute to the statue’s overall realism.