Nestled in the heart of Caucasus, right between Europe and Asia, Georgia boasts an extremely rich cultural and historical heritage. Whether ancient castles from centuries ago or contemporary designs that recently emerged on the city’s skyline, tourists worldwide gather in Georgia to enjoy the breathtaking architecture.
Georgia was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity; that’s why you’ll see countless churches here, both ancient and modern. On the other hand, Georgian people have always had to be on the lookout for intruders, resulting in multiple fortresses throughout the country.
Georgian architecture has always been heavily influenced both by Western and oriental cultures. However, after turning into a buzzing multicultural scene, Georgia and its capital, Tbilisi offer an especially diverse architectural scene, ranging from Soviet Brutalist buildings to sleek contemporary designs.
Meama Coffee Factory
Since its completion in 2019, Meama office has proudly earned its place among Georgia’s most special and noteworthy sites. Critics also seem to agree, as the design has won multiple awards, including Architizer A + nomination for the best workspace.
Giorgi Khmaladze created this building with the aim of creating an equally appealing and sustainable site. Huge windows fill the inside of the office with natural light, creating a sense of unity with the environment. Completely covered in greenery, the roof of the coffee factory also contributes to the building perfectly blending in with nature.
Once you visit Meama, you’ll be sure that the building truly deserves a spot next to other Georgian architectural marvels. The design of the multifunctional factory has gained critical acclaim and has outdone some of the most popular companies, such as TikTok and Jaguar.
Ananuri Fortress
One of the most prominent examples of medieval architecture, Ananuri fortress is located in the village with the same name, approximately 70 km from Tbilisi near Zhinvali reservoir. Due to its location, the fortress has witnessed many historic battles.
Back in the mid-centuries, the fortress had a significant strategic value. It was built in the valley between two rivers, allowing residents to control the environment and let no enemy pass unnoticed. The intruders would find themselves in a natural “gate” where defenders could easily surround them.
The importance of religion for Georgians can also be seen in three distinct churches within the fortification. The Church of the Virgin, the Church of the Deity, and the Church of the Healer were built in the 16-17th centuries and added a layer of elegant diversity to the fortification.
The Holy Trinity Church
As we said, churches are the most common architectural landscapes in Georgia. Christianity has been an important part of the country’s history, influencing every single aspect of its culture. Ancient monasteries built as early as the 5th century and the medieval churches that still remain practically untouched tell the story of this small country and its architectural evolution.
Medieval monasteries are not the only ones you’ll see in Georgia. The Holy Trinity Church (or Sameba) stands proudly on Elia Hill and can be seen from almost every spot in the city, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the capital.
As in other Soviet countries, practising Christianity was prohibited in Georgia for most of the 20th century. That’s why the idea of this enormous Orthodox cathedral’s construction was born right after the country gained its independence. As a result, this monastery serves not only as a symbol of Tbilisi but also as a symbol of Georgia’s spiritual awakening.
Bank of Georgia Headquarters
When discussing ancient and contemporary architectural styles in Georgia, it’s impossible not to mention this one-of-a-kind design that has been catching the attention of many tourists worldwide.
Initially built in 1975 for USSR’s Ministry of Highway Construction, this intricate building is a perfect example of a mix between Russian constructivism and brutalism. Located in the industrial centre of the city, this site attracts many visitors who enjoy late Soviet architecture.
In Conclusion
Georgia’s skyline is a captivating tapestry of ancient buildings and modern architectural designs, both naturally blended with the country’s diverse landscape. Frequent battles and wars and a new religion’s early adoption has resulted in countless breathtaking fortifications and serene churches that sing songs from centuries ago.
The rapid industrialization in the 21st century has caused the city’s landscape to integrate contemporary appeal, contrasting the country’s traditional aesthetic with constructions designed by modern architectural principles.
