The Alphabet Tower, also known as the “Tower of the Alphabet” or “Alphabet Monument,” is a unique architectural marvel located in the capital of Adjara, near the city beach. This soaring monument resembles a DNA structure, eloquently embodying the phrase, “Language is the genetic code of a nation.” Standing at an impressive height of 130 meters, it is a striking symbol of modern Georgian art, alongside the sculpture “Ali and Nino,” and contributes to the new visage of Batumi within the so-called “Wonder Park” area, where several smaller sculptures can also be found. This landmark is one of the most photographed attractions in the region and has no counterparts anywhere in the world.
The tower is designed as a structure entwined with ribbons displaying the 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet, each standing 4 meters tall and crafted from aluminum. The internal architecture of the tower bears resemblance to the famous Shanghai Tower; at its core lies a central pole, while the outer perimeter is encircled by a DNA ribbon adorned with letters. The external and internal sections are interconnected by metallic diaphragms shaped like stars, positioned every 10 meters.
Originally envisioned as not just a monument but a functional building, the tower was intended to house a television studio, an observation deck, an observatory, and a rotating restaurant. Currently, however, only the restaurant operates, and according to tourist feedback, it often remains closed, offers unremarkable cuisine, and even the simplest menu items come at a steep price.
In addition to the restaurant (on days it is open), an elevator transports visitors to the tower’s pinnacle. The ascent costs 20 lari. The elevator takes tourists to the first level, where they must transfer to a second elevator that leads to the observation deck at the top. Here, visitors will find a souvenir kiosk, an exhibition displaying historical photographs of Batumi, and informational stands detailing other attractions in the city. Instead of solid walls, the elevator features glass panels, albeit slightly tinted.
If you do not plan to ascend, visiting the Alphabet Tower in the evening is highly recommended. The illuminated structure appears far more impressive at night than during the day.
The Alphabet Tower in Batumi was completed relatively recently, in 2012. The project was designed by Spanish architect Alberto Domingo Cabo, who is also known for his role as the chief architect of the Georgian Parliament building in Kutaisi and the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Tbilisi.
The Georgian alphabet is a unique script with no analogs. Its letters, characterized by rounded and flowing contours, resemble an artistic pattern. Notably, the Georgian alphabet does not include uppercase letters. This alphabet served as the foundation for the “Caucasian Alphabet,” which is used to write languages in the region that lack their own scripts.
The Georgian alphabet has been inscribed on UNESCO’s list of cultural heritage. One theory suggests that the alphabet is based on Aramaic or even Coptic script, while the most widely accepted view posits that it has Armenian origins. However, there is still no unanimous theory regarding its development. Today, the alphabet consists of 33 letters, with 5 letters having been removed as archaic.