Kutaisi

This is definitely a city that is definitely worth a visit. Its history dates back as far as the VI century BC – it was the capital of the Colchian kingdom.

On the day of my arrival, a graduation ceremony was held all over Georgia, so all the central streets were filled with beautiful young people who pleasantly complemented the already magnificent architecture.

On some houses you can see the belvedere and spires, which creates a unique image of the city.

In general, the architecture is quite diverse, but it is very harmoniously combined with each other.

The houses of the 19th century with preserved wrought-iron balconies, wooden windows and doors are especially beautiful. Even if you remove the cars, it's like you find yourself a century and a half in the past.

Some buildings have been reconstructed quite well. Some elements are obviously modern fantasy, but it's nice to look at.

The whole city consists of similar streets.

It feels like Kutaisi is not a tourist city at all – there are not many cafes here, there are no touting hostesses, local children run around on the streets, townspeople walk with string bags, and elderly people relax in parks.

Surprisingly, you can see artifacts from the Soviet period here. For example, the composition "Glory to Labor" by the famous Georgian architect Shota Bostanashvili.

Unfortunately, the condition is sad. But thanks for not destroying it.

Some buildings surprise with their purpose. You can imagine at least a ministry here, but in fact it is an ordinary city school.

Another famous building is the Meliton Balanchivadze Opera and Ballet Theatre. The original building of the philanthropist Stefan Kharazishvili was built in 1880, but almost completely burned down in 1946. In the 70s it was rebuilt again, but in 2010 the interior underwent a large-scale reconstruction. Obviously, now it has come to updating the facade.

The beautiful and moderately well-maintained center contrasts strongly with residential areas. Although there are no longer perfect roads and modern facades here, such streets evoke a sense of naturalness and create a certain flavor.

Kutaisi is located on two banks of the Rioni River, above which white stones protrude.

By the way, one of the bridges connecting both parts of the city is named after the color of the stones – the White Bridge.

The only white thing is the fence and the lanterns. He himself is covered with Corten steel.

And this is what the city looks like from the outside. That's exactly what you can say about Kutaisi – "it is surrounded by greenery."

Kutaisi turned out to be a city with its own unique flavor. There are still a lot of interesting places that I would be interested in visiting. I recommend setting aside at least a couple of days to study it.

This is where the journey through Georgia came to an end. Another 5 hours of road and the border with Russia was crossed. I hope I managed to convey it, and if you have any questions, ask in the comments.