The White Bridge, located in Kutaisi, is a charming pedestrian walkway arching gracefully over the Rioni River—one of the major waterways of the South Caucasus. Winding through cities like Kutaisi and Poti, the river’s ceaseless flow adds a tranquil rhythm to the Georgian landscape. The bridge, first built in the 19th century, has since become one of the city’s most cherished landmarks—a place where both locals and travelers come to stroll, to dream, to gaze upon the flowing river and rocky riverbed, to admire the quaint old houses, and to lose themselves in the distant silhouettes of the mountains. The White Bridge is also famed for a whimsical bronze statue: a boy with two hats—an endearing tribute to a character from Eldar Shengelaia’s 1968 film The Extraordinary Exhibition.
The creation of the bridge was not straightforward. The first attempt was made in 1850, when military engineer Witte commenced construction, completing the project in 1852. Yet, within a few short years, in 1860, the structure collapsed. A second attempt at restoration failed, prompting a fresh endeavor in 1870, this time under the supervision of engineer Zezman. Metal elements were ordered from abroad, transported to Kutaisi, and by 1872, the new bridge was completed and opened to the public. Painted in white, it was soon affectionately named “The White Bridge”—a name it carries to this day.
Kutaisi’s White Bridge stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering. Forged in iron and painted a brilliant white, the bridge rests upon stone pillars anchored directly into the limestone outcrops of the Rioni River. It spans the river with three arches, and during dry seasons, water flows only beneath the easternmost arch.
In recent years, the bridge underwent an elegant renovation. The original wooden decking was replaced by distinctive square metal plates—some engraved with Georgian quotations that pay homage to the country, the city of Kutaisi, and the bridge itself. Sections of durable glass have been inserted, offering transparent glimpses of the waters below and the river’s sculpted white stones. The project, which cost approximately 436,000 lari from the city budget, was officially reopened by Kutaisi’s then-mayor Giorgi Chigvaria, ushering in a new era for the beloved landmark.
Perched on the eastern parapet of the bridge is a bronze sculpture known as “Picasso’s Boy.” Though unrelated to the famed artist himself, the figure captures the spirit of a scene from The Extraordinary Exhibition, a film that affectionately portrays life in 1960s Kutaisi. In the movie, a boy perches atop the bridge railing, clutching two hats. One character points him out to a friend and remarks, “That’s the kind of boy Picasso would have painted. That’s the ideal of art.” Then, in a moment of playful rebellion, the boy snatches their hats and dives into the Rioni below.
The sculpture evokes this playful, poetic moment, and has become a favorite photo stop for visitors. Its instantly recognizable silhouette has etched itself into the city’s visual identity.
The White Bridge offers spectacular views of the Rioni River, with its foaming rapids and gleaming limestone banks. It’s long been a place for rendezvous and romantic walks—where the rushing water and echo of footsteps blend with city sounds. All around, you’ll find inviting cafés, bars, and restaurants catering to every budget and taste.
Nearby, a quaint square and small park enhance the bridge’s setting. Within walking distance lies the stately Oqros Chardakhi Palace, the city’s aerial cable car line, and the Kutaisi State Historical Museum. A short walk east along Alexander Pushkin Street will take you to even more cultural landmarks.
The bridge stands at the heart of the city, close to the lower station of the aerial cable car. You can even reach it via the cableway, disembarking at the “Old Town” station. Whether arriving by foot or from the sky, the White Bridge welcomes all—offering not just a path across the river, but a journey into the spirit of Kutaisi.