The Most European City – Batumi

Batumi, as one of the most important cities in Georgia, is distinguished by its unique European character. Its history, architecture and cultural diversity create a special synthesis that makes it the most European city in Georgia. This is not just a modern trend – the European spirit of Batumi was born two centuries ago and continues to develop to this day.

At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, the city developed according to the principles of European urban planning, which have been preserved to this day. The architecture of the city is notable for the styles of neoclassicism, art nouveau and eclecticism. Of particular note is the “Europe Square”, where the “Astronomical Clock” and masterpieces of European architecture can be found. The buildings of the old boulevard, the “Piazza Square” and European-style hotels create a unique atmosphere and are planned in the above-mentioned architectural style.

Historically, Batumi has always been a multicultural city, where Georgians, Greeks, Armenians, Russians, Jews and representatives of other nationalities lived together. This diversity was reflected in the cultural life of the city – here you can find various religious buildings, such as Orthodox churches, a Catholic cathedral, a synagogue and a mosque.

Multicultural heritage

• Various religious buildings – a Catholic church (1903), Orthodox churches, a synagogue (1904) and the Orta Jame Mosque (1866);
• Historically formed multi-ethnic districts;
• Cultural heritage of European diasporas (Germans, Italians, French);
• Historical tradition of an international trade center;

The city was planned according to European standards – wide streets, green boulevards, squares and squares. Batumi Boulevard, which was laid out in 1881, is a wonderful example of a European park. Modern Batumi continues to maintain the European style – in the construction of new buildings and the planning of a new boulevard.

Batumi’s Europeanness is manifested not only in architecture, but also in urban culture – street cafes, open spaces, pedestrian zones and cultural events create the atmosphere of a modern European city. The historical development of the city, architectural heritage and modern urban policy create a special synthesis, making it the most European city in Georgia. Batumi is a living example of how traditional values ​​can be preserved by combining them with modern European standards.