Monument to Prometheus

Borjomi is an incredibly picturesque and inviting resort town nestled in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of southwestern Georgia. Set in the Borjomi Gorge at an elevation of 800 meters above sea level, the town is enveloped in lush greenery. Often referred to as a “city-park” or “forest city,” Borjomi uniquely blends its natural attractions with human-made landmarks.

The Monument to Prometheus is one of the most visited sites in Borjomi, located in the heart of the Central Park, a beloved spot for both tourists and locals alike. This striking monument is set against a scenic backdrop of rocky cliffs, with the Borjomula River flowing at its base and a fountain nearby on the observation deck. Flanking the sculpture are artificial waterfalls known as the Prometheus Waterfalls, adding to the charm of the surroundings.

Officially, the figure of the hero at the cliff in Borjomi Park is referred to as the “Monument to Prometheus.” However, many Georgians believe that the sculpture actually depicts Amirani—a legendary figure from the Georgian epic “Amiraniani,” whose story bears similarities to the Greek myth of Prometheus. Amirani, the son of the Georgian goddess Dali, the protector of animals, and a mortal man, received supernatural abilities as an infant after bathing in the waters of a magical spring. Defying the gods, Amirani sought to benefit humanity by stealing fire from the heavens and teaching people the art of metallurgy while battling evil spirits. In retaliation for his defiance, the gods chained Amirani to a high cliff in the Caucasus Mountains, where an eagle would come daily to peck at his liver.

The statue of the hero is crafted from concrete, adorned with gilded elements that catch the eye. Visitors to the park are often awed by the sheer size of the Prometheus figure. Surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls, the sculpture serves as a focal point of the park, harmoniously integrated into the landscape. Despite its imposing dimensions, the monument blends seamlessly with its surroundings, symbolizing the unity of the three elements: earth, fire, and water.

Due to the monument’s size, it can be challenging to take in the full composition of the Prometheus statue and the waterfalls from ground level, as the beginning of the waterfall is obscured by rocks and trees. However, breathtaking panoramic views of the monument, waterfalls, and the surrounding area can be enjoyed from the Borjomi cable car.

The Monument to Prometheus was cast in 2007 based on a design by Belgian architect of Georgian descent, Davi Khmaladze. Initially, the monument was unveiled on November 23, 2007, on the right bank of the Kura River in Tbilisi, near the Queen Tamar Bridge. The opening ceremony was attended by Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili and Polish President Lech Kaczyński.

However, two years later, a decision was made to relocate the monument from the capital to Borjomi. At that time, the Central Park was undergoing reconstruction, and its picturesque expanses became the ideal setting for such a monumental sculpture. The park’s location against the cliff added a sense of drama and majesty to the figure of the hero. In 2009, the Monument to Prometheus was inaugurated in its new location, becoming one of Borjomi’s main attractions.

Visitors can view the Monument to Prometheus during the operational hours of Central Park Borjomi, which are from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and from October to March, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entrance to the park is ticketed, costing 2 lari.