Tbilisi is famous for its wooden balconies, historic churches and winding Old Town streets, but the Georgian capital also contains one of the most fascinating collections of late-Soviet architecture in the region.

From the 1960s to the final years of the Soviet Union, Georgian architects experimented with raw concrete, monumental forms, dramatic geometry and designs influenced by the country’s mountainous landscape and architectural traditions. The result was not one single style, but a distinctive mixture of Brutalism, Soviet Modernism, neo-expressionism and monumental public art.

For simplicity, many travellers refer to all these structures as “Tbilisi Brutalism.” Architecturally, however, buildings such as the Palace of Rituals and Expo Georgia are more accurately described as late-Soviet Modernist, while the Chronicle of Georgia is a work of monumental sculpture rather than a building.

This guide introduces ten of the most remarkable examples of Soviet architecture in Tbilisi, together with current access information, transport advice and photography tips.

Last updated: August 2026

Before You Start Exploring

Tbilisi’s Soviet architectural landmarks are spread across several districts and cannot all be comfortably visited on foot.

For the more distant locations, a taxi application is usually the easiest option. Read the guide to online taxi apps in Georgia before travelling, or consult the Tbilisi public transport guide if you prefer to use the metro and city buses.

Several buildings in this article are working offices, private properties, residential complexes or abandoned structures. Photograph them only from publicly accessible areas unless you have clear permission to enter. Never climb fences or enter visibly unstable buildings.

For a broader architectural inventory, the Late Modernist Architecture in Tbilisi guide, created by Blue Shield Georgia with support from the Getty Foundation, is an excellent additional resource.

1. Bank of Georgia Headquarters

Former Ministry of Automobile Roads
Address: 29a Yuri Gagarin Street
Access: Exterior viewing only

The Bank of Georgia Headquarters is Tbilisi’s internationally best-known Brutalist building.

Designed by Georgian architects Giorgi Chakhava and Zurab Jalaghania and constructed between 1972 and 1975, it originally housed the Ministry of Automobile Roads of the Georgian SSR. Chakhava was both an architect and the deputy minister responsible for the institution that commissioned the building.

Its interlocking horizontal blocks are supported by vertical concrete cores, creating the impression of an enormous structure suspended above the hillside. The concept is commonly associated with Chakhava’s “Space City” approach, which aimed to occupy less ground and allow the landscape to continue beneath the building.

The building was renovated after becoming the headquarters of the Bank of Georgia and remains in active use. It is private office property, so visitors should not expect interior access.

The building is listed in the international SOS Brutalism architectural database.

Photography tip: The most impressive exterior perspectives can be found from Yuri Gagarin Street and from lower positions closer to the Mtkvari River. A longer lens can help isolate the interlocking concrete sections.

How to get there: Take the metro to Medical University or Technical University and continue by bus or taxi. Enter “Bank of Georgia Head Office” in your navigation application.

2. The Chronicle of Georgia

Location: Keeni Hill, above the Tbilisi Sea
Access: Outdoor monument; free to visit

The Chronicle of Georgia is not strictly a Brutalist building, but its extraordinary scale and late-Soviet origins make it an essential stop on any Soviet architecture itinerary.

Created by Georgian sculptor Zurab Tsereteli, construction began in 1985 and the monumental complex was never fully completed. Its central structure consists of 16 enormous pillars, some approximately 30–35 metres tall.

The upper sections depict Georgian rulers, writers and national heroes, while the lower reliefs illustrate scenes connected to Christianity and the life of Christ. The surrounding terraces provide wide views over the Tbilisi Sea and the northern districts of the city.

Because of its dark surfaces, massive proportions and isolated hilltop setting, the monument is sometimes informally called the “Georgian Stonehenge.”

Read the complete Chronicle of Georgia visitor guide for history, transport options and practical information. You can also combine the monument with a visit to the nearby Tbilisi Sea.

Photography tip: Visit in the late afternoon, when low sunlight brings out the textures of the reliefs. Including a person in the composition helps demonstrate the enormous scale.

How to get there: A taxi is the simplest option. Check that the destination pin is on the hill above the reservoir and not at another part of the Tbilisi Sea.

3. Nutsubidze Skybridge

Location: Nutsubidze Plateau, 1st Microdistrict
Access: Residential complex; access can change

Constructed between 1974 and 1976, the Nutsubidze Plateau apartment complex was designed by architects Otar Kalandarishvili and Gizo Potskhishvili.

Three residential blocks rise at different levels of a steep hillside and are connected by elevated metal bridges. The system allowed residents to move between the lower and upper parts of the neighbourhood without following the longer road around the slope.

The concept is sometimes compared to the historic Georgian mountain settlement of Shatili, where buildings, passages and bridges adapt closely to difficult terrain.

The complex remains residential. The bridges continue to serve local people, but elevator access for visitors may depend on the building, time and current arrangements. Do not assume that every entrance or lift is open to tourists, and avoid disturbing residents.

See the dedicated Tbilisi Skybridge guide before planning your visit.

Photography tip: The best exterior photographs show the three buildings at different elevations with the bridges crossing between them. Avoid pointing cameras directly into apartment windows.

How to get there: Take the metro to State University and continue by taxi or local bus towards Nutsubidze Plateau.

4. Palace of Rituals

Also known as: Wedding Palace
Address: 21 Bochorma Street
Access: Private property; interior access is not guaranteed

Completed in 1984, the Palace of Rituals was designed by Viktor Djorbenadze and Vazha Orbeladze as a venue for secular wedding ceremonies and other state rituals.

Unlike the rectangular forms associated with conventional Soviet construction, the palace uses curved walls, towers, ceremonial staircases and flowing interior spaces. Its design combines late Modernism and neo-expressionism with references to medieval Georgian church architecture and traditional domestic forms.

The building was purchased by businessman Badri Patarkatsishvili after the Soviet period and remains privately owned. It has been used for weddings and private events, but visitors cannot simply arrive and expect to enter.

At present, arrangements for possible regular or private visits are still being developed. The detailed Palace of Rituals visitor guide will be updated when confirmed tour information becomes available.

Photography tip: The building’s sculptural silhouette is best appreciated from outside the gates and from public viewpoints across the surrounding roads. Different angles reveal completely different forms.

How to get there: Take the metro to 300 Aragveli and continue on foot for approximately 15–20 minutes, or use a short taxi ride.

5. Georgian Technical University and the Former Scientific-Technical Library

Locations: Merab Kostava Street 47 and 77
Access: Exterior viewing recommended

The Georgian Technical University area contains several examples of late-Soviet institutional architecture.

Building VI of the Georgian Technical University, constructed during the 1970s, uses repetitive concrete modules and a strong horizontal structure typical of large educational complexes from the period.

A short walk away stands the former Scientific-Technical Library at 47 Merab Kostava Street. Designed by architect Gary Bichiashvili and completed in 1985, its most distinctive feature is the long façade covered by tooth-like vertical concrete sunbreakers.

Rather than treating the area as one individual monument, architecture enthusiasts can explore it as a Soviet-era urban ensemble that also includes the Sports Palace, Technical University metro station and other institutional buildings.

The former Technical Library is also documented by SOS Brutalism.

Photography tip: A telephoto lens can compress the library’s repeating concrete fins into an almost abstract pattern. Morning or late-afternoon light produces the strongest shadows.

How to get there: Take the metro to Technical University. Most of the buildings are within walking distance along Merab Kostava Street.

6. Rustaveli–Mtatsminda Cable Car Lower Station

Address: 52 Shota Rustaveli Avenue
Access: Operating cable car station; ticket required for the ride

Older travel articles still describe this station as an abandoned Soviet structure. That information is now outdated.

The original Rustaveli–Mtatsminda cable car line opened during the Soviet period and stopped operating after the fatal cable car accident of 1990. After decades of abandonment, the lower station was restored and a modern gondola system opened in October 2024.

The renovated station retains its monumental curved forms and spiral circulation ramps while functioning once again as a transport terminal. It is now one of the clearest examples in Tbilisi of a Soviet structure receiving a contemporary use.

The cable car connects Rustaveli Avenue with Mtatsminda Park in approximately four to five minutes. Fares and opening hours can change, so consult the updated Rustaveli–Mtatsminda Cable Car guide before visiting.

Photography tip: Photograph the sweeping curves of the restored station from the lower courtyard, then take the cable car uphill for panoramic views over central Tbilisi.

How to get there: The station is located behind the Georgian National Academy of Sciences, within walking distance of Rustaveli metro station.

7. Former Tbilisi Archaeology Museum

Address: 5 Motsikulta Stsori Nino Street
Access: Closed; exterior viewing only

The former Tbilisi Archaeology Museum was designed by Shota Kavlashvili and Shota Gvantseladze and completed in 1988.

Built on an elevated site in Dighomi, the structure is composed of heavy geometric volumes arranged around a central section. Its rounded concrete forms, elevated entrance and long approach ramp give it the appearance of a futuristic bunker or isolated research station.

The museum is no longer operating and the structure has deteriorated. Visitors should treat it as a closed architectural site, not as an urban-exploration attraction. Do not enter through damaged openings, climb the building or cross barriers.

The exterior and approach ramp are enough to appreciate the design without taking unnecessary risks.

Photography tip: A view from the lower part of the ramp emphasizes the building’s mass and isolated hilltop position. Overcast weather works particularly well with its weathered concrete surfaces.

How to get there: The site is in the Dighomi area, close to Davit Aghmashenebeli Alley. A taxi is considerably easier than combining several buses and walking uphill.

8. Laguna Vere Swimming Complex and Mosaic

Address: 34 Merab Kostava Street
Access: Closed private property; view only from public areas

Laguna Vere opened in 1978 as one of the leading aquatic and sports complexes in the region.

The project was created by architects Shota Kavlashvili, Guram Abuladze and Ramaz Kiknadze. Its exposed concrete terraces and grandstand-like forms were designed around outdoor swimming pools and sporting facilities.

One of its most valuable surviving features is the monumental mosaic created by Georgian artist Koka Ignatov. Contrary to information repeated in some travel articles, the Laguna Vere mosaic was not created by Zurab Tsereteli.

The complex closed in 2014 and was severely affected by the 2015 Tbilisi flood. The property remains closed and its future has been the subject of changing ownership and redevelopment proposals. Visitors should not attempt to enter the site.

Photography tip: Parts of the concrete structure and mosaic can be viewed from surrounding public roads. A longer lens is useful because legal access to the grounds is not guaranteed.

How to get there: Laguna Vere is located near Heroes Square and can be reached on foot from Rustaveli or Technical University metro stations, depending on your route.

9. Expo Georgia

Address: 118 Akaki Tsereteli Avenue
Access: Active exhibition centre; pavilion access depends on events

Originally developed as the Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy of the Georgian SSR, Expo Georgia was constructed in stages between 1961 and 1971.

Architects involved in the complex included Levan Mamaladze, Vladimer Nasaridze, Jimsher Papinashvili and V. Peikrishvili. Its pavilions, landscaped grounds, pools, mosaics and sculptures show a lighter and more decorative side of Soviet Modernism than the heavy concrete structures usually associated with Brutalism.

Rather than focusing only on Pavilion 11, visitors should view Expo Georgia as an architectural ensemble. Pavilion 11 is currently the largest indoor exhibition hall, while other parts of the complex preserve different architectural details and Soviet-period artworks.

Expo Georgia continues to host trade fairs, art events, conferences and public exhibitions. Check the official Expo Georgia website to see whether an event is taking place during your visit. Access to individual pavilions may depend on the event schedule.

Photography tip: Look for reflections, curved façades, mosaics and the contrast between concrete, glass and landscaped areas.

How to get there: Take the metro to Gotsiridze and walk along Akaki Tsereteli Avenue. Didube metro station is another possible starting point.

10. Bagebi Student Campus

Location: Bagebi, near the Vere River gorge
Access: Student and residential area; exterior viewing only

The Bagebi student campus is one of Tbilisi’s largest surviving late-Soviet housing ensembles.

Its tall, repetitive concrete blocks rise beside the green slopes of the Vere River gorge, creating a dramatic contrast between mass-produced architecture and the surrounding landscape. Unlike ceremonial landmarks such as the Palace of Rituals, Bagebi represents the functional side of Soviet urban planning: large-scale accommodation designed to house university students.

The visual impact comes from repetition, density and topography rather than decorative architectural details. Rows of windows and balconies form enormous geometric patterns when viewed from a distance.

Because the buildings contain student accommodation and residential spaces, visitors should remain in public areas and avoid entering blocks simply for photography.

Photography tip: Wider views from across the road or valley communicate the scale of the campus better than close-up photographs. Black-and-white processing can emphasize the repetitive concrete patterns.

How to get there: City buses connect the area with Chavchavadze Avenue and other parts of Vake. A taxi from Delisi metro station is another practical option.

How Much Time Do You Need?

Although it is technically possible to see several locations in one long day by taxi, two days provide a more realistic and enjoyable itinerary.

A practical first-day route can combine:

• Rustaveli–Mtatsminda Cable Car Station;
• Laguna Vere;
• the former Scientific-Technical Library;
• Expo Georgia;
• Bank of Georgia Headquarters;
• Nutsubidze Skybridge.

On a second day, visit:

• the Palace of Rituals;
• the former Archaeology Museum;
• the Chronicle of Georgia and Tbilisi Sea.

Bagebi can be added to the first day or visited separately while exploring Vake and western Tbilisi.

Always check traffic conditions and current access before travelling. Tbilisi traffic can add considerable time to a route that looks short on a map.

Understanding Tbilisi’s Soviet Past

Architecture reveals how Soviet-era Tbilisi was designed, but the buildings alone do not explain Georgia’s complex experience under Soviet rule.

For visitors interested in the historical context, the Soviet Tour of Tbilisi explores the Red Army invasion, Soviet annexation, political repression, Stalin’s legacy, everyday life, propaganda, the national movement and the collapse of the USSR from a Georgian perspective.

It is a history-focused experience rather than a tour of the ten architectural landmarks listed above. The itinerary includes the Underground Printing House Museum, the Tbilisi Metro and several locations connected to Georgia’s Soviet and post-Soviet history.

Responsible Architecture Photography

Many Soviet buildings in Tbilisi continue to function as homes, offices, educational institutions or transport facilities.

When photographing them:

• remain in public areas;
• respect residents and security staff;
• do not photograph through apartment windows;
• ask permission before photographing people;
• never climb fences or enter closed buildings;
• avoid damaged floors, roofs and staircases;
• follow restrictions at working offices and transport facilities.

Abandoned architecture can look visually dramatic, but no photograph is worth entering an unsafe or privately owned structure.

FAQ About Soviet Architecture in Tbilisi

Is Tbilisi a good destination for Brutalist architecture?

Yes. Tbilisi contains internationally recognised examples of Brutalism and Soviet Modernism, including the Bank of Georgia Headquarters, Nutsubidze Skybridge, Palace of Rituals and Laguna Vere.

Are all ten locations really Brutalist?

No. The list includes Brutalism, Soviet Modernism, neo-expressionist architecture and monumental Soviet-period art. “Tbilisi Brutalism” is often used as a convenient travel term for this wider architectural heritage.

Can visitors enter the buildings?

Interior access is limited. The cable car station and parts of Expo Georgia are functioning public venues, while the Bank of Georgia Headquarters, Palace of Rituals, Laguna Vere and several other locations are private or closed.

Is the Nutsubidze Skybridge open to tourists?

The bridge is part of a residential complex and continues to be used by local people. Elevator and visitor access can change, so be respectful and do not assume every entrance is publicly accessible.

Is the Palace of Rituals open for tours?

General visitor access is not currently guaranteed. Arrangements for possible regular or private visits are being developed, and the dedicated Palace of Rituals page will be updated when confirmed information becomes available.

Are these landmarks free to visit?

Most exterior viewpoints are free. The Chronicle of Georgia is a free outdoor monument. Riding the Rustaveli–Mtatsminda Cable Car requires payment, while Expo Georgia events may have their own admission rules.

Can I visit all ten locations using public transport?

Most locations can be approached by metro or bus, but several require additional walking. Combining public transport with occasional taxi rides is usually the most practical option.

What is the best time for architectural photography?

Morning and late afternoon generally provide the best directional light and shadows. The Chronicle of Georgia is particularly impressive near sunset, while the Bank of Georgia Headquarters and former Technical Library benefit from strong side lighting.