The lighthouse in Batumi is a striking octagonal structure, standing at 20 meters tall and adorned in pristine white. At its pinnacle is a space for the light source, accessible via an internal staircase comprising 75 steps. Adjacent to the lighthouse is a living quarter for the keeper, adding a touch of functionality to this architectural gem.
Even today, the red light of the Batumi lighthouse continues to flash during the dark hours, guiding ships safely through the waters. However, in the modern era, it has become more of a historical architectural treasure than a crucial navigational aid, as the bright lights of nearby attractions often outshine it and are more visible from the sea.
Constructed from wood in 1863, this lighthouse initially emitted a white light to guide vessels. It remained in this form for just 19 years before undergoing a complete reconstruction by French engineers in 1982. The new structure was built from stone, and for many years, it stood right at the water’s edge. However, following the renovation of the waterfront between 2007 and 2013, the lighthouse was “receded” from the sea by several dozen meters due to beach replenishment efforts.
The history of the lighthouse contains a somber chapter related to one of its keepers. Mikhail Mikhailovich Stavraki served as the lighthouse keeper from the early 20th century, but his life before this role became infamously tragic. In his youth, Stavraki was a cadet and a classmate of Peter Schmidt, who later gained notoriety as Lieutenant Schmidt. After their studies, their paths diverged until fate brought them together during the execution of revolutionary movement participants in 1906. It is believed that Stavraki was one of Schmidt’s executioners, a fact that led to his death sentence by the Soviet authorities in April 1923. He accepted the verdict with dignity but never acknowledged his guilt. This story was later referenced in Konstantin Paustovsky’s essay “The Lighthouse Keeper.”
The Batumi waterfront, following its renovation, stretches approximately 7 kilometers along the coastline. Besides numerous cafes and restaurants, it features attractions such as a dolphinarium, a zoo, a water park, sports fields, and much more. The promenade is adorned with unique sculptures and art installations, musical fountains, and cozy spots for relaxation and strolls. A dedicated red path runs parallel to the pedestrian walkway, designed for cycling and rollerblading. Miracle Park occupies a portion of this revitalized waterfront, located near the Batumi Sea Port.
The Batumi lighthouse stands almost at the center of Miracle Park, surrounded by beautiful structures. Between the lighthouse and the sea port lies one of the park’s most vibrant and popular attractions: a 55-meter-high Ferris wheel, featuring 40 open cabins with railings and small roofs. At night, the wheel sparkles with a kaleidoscope of colors, and from its summit, visitors can gaze upon many of the city’s landmarks, including the flashing lighthouse and the shimmering nightscape of Batumi.
Adjacent to the Ferris wheel is a romantic sculpture of Ali and Nino, characters from the eponymous literary novel. The 8-meter-tall figures of the lovers are in constant motion, sometimes drifting apart and other times coming together, passing through each other. Their story, as depicted in the novel, is tragic and poignant. Muslim Ali and Christian Nino fell in love and married despite numerous obstacles, yet ultimately, the young man’s death separated them forever.
On the opposite side of the lighthouse rises the 130-meter-high Tower of the Georgian Alphabet. This structure boasts an original spiral lighting design and features elevators and a staircase leading to a rotating observation deck. Within, there is also a Georgian restaurant serving traditional cuisine.
Another renowned attraction in the park that draws many tourists is the chacha fountain. This fountain gained fame for offering visitors a chance to taste the famous Georgian drink for free at one time. It operated just once a week, pouring out products from popular Georgian chacha producers. Unfortunately, the fountain is currently not in operation, yet this does not diminish its popularity among tourists.
Among the other attractions in this enchanting section of the waterfront is the sculptural composition “Me, You, and Batumi,” featuring a man and woman seated at a table, along with unique stone chairs. Various entertainment events—concerts, festivals, and celebrations—are frequently organized in this area. From the sea port, visitors can embark on short sea voyages aboard one of the many rental yachts, and there are also facilities for renting bicycles and children’s cars.