Zugdidi

Zugdidi is a city located in western Georgia, just 30 kilometers from the shores of the Black Sea. The name “Zugdidi” comes from the Mingrelian language and translates as “Great Hill.” Though considered a relatively young city, officially established in 1918, Zugdidi is among the larger urban centers in Georgia, with a population of around 70,000. While it may not always appear on the traditional tourist trail as a city brimming with landmarks, it often serves as a key transit hub for travelers heading to Mestia or Batumi.

The area’s historical roots stretch back to the 16th century, with remnants of small churches from that era still standing today. The late 17th century marked a turning point in Zugdidi’s development with the construction of a defensive fortress, which was later expanded into the opulent palace of the powerful Dadiani princes of Mingrelia. Today, visitors can admire the majestic palace and the breathtaking botanical garden that surrounds it—both of which took on their current forms by the end of the 19th century.

In 1855, Turkish troops led by Omer Pasha seized the city. However, just two years later, the Mingrelian uprising of 1857 successfully expelled the invaders, restoring local autonomy.

The crown jewel of Zugdidi and its most cherished cultural treasure is the Dadiani Palace—an elegant residence once belonging to the ancient noble family of the Mingrelian princes, who were connected by blood to none other than Napoleon Bonaparte. The palace’s architecture echoes the charm of medieval European castles. Designed by architect Edgar J. Rice, its blueprint was inspired by the Vorontsov Palace in Alupka. Today, the palace houses a museum founded in the mid-19th century by Prince David Dadiani of Mingrelia. The museum’s collection includes his personal heirlooms and significant Georgian antiquities. With over 40,000 items on display, highlights include Napoleon’s furniture, a revered icon of Queen Tamar of Georgia, ancient artifacts from Constantinople, medieval European weaponry, and more.

Encircling the palace is a botanical garden of extraordinary beauty. Princess Dadiani commissioned renowned European horticulturists to landscape the grounds and import seeds of rare and exotic plants. Many of the trees in the garden are now more than 200 years old, some of which are entirely unique in the region. Thanks to Zugdidi’s subtropical climate, the botanical garden—spanning over 26 hectares—offers ideal conditions for studying a diverse range of flora.

Just a few kilometers from Zugdidi lies another historical treasure: the ruins of the Rukhi Fortress. It was here, in 1780, that a significant battle took place between the forces of the Dadiani family, supported by King Solomon I of Imereti, and the invading Abkhaz troops. The battle ended in a triumphant victory for the Dadiani, preserving western Georgia’s sovereignty. Though the fortress is partially in ruins today, its imposing stone walls, draped in green foliage, still echo the memory of those fierce struggles of the past.

About 20 kilometers from Zugdidi, in the village of Ganarjiis-Mukhuri, lies the enchanting Tobavarchkhili Lake—known as the Silver Lake. Nestled high in the mountains at an elevation of over 2,500 meters above sea level, the lake is a pristine gem of natural beauty. Nearby, a majestic mountain waterfall adds to the scene’s allure. Reaching the lake and waterfall requires effort, as the terrain is remote and mountainous. However, the serene harmony of the landscape, the crisp, transparent mountain air, and the breathtaking vistas more than reward every step of the journey.

Zugdidi is a compact city, stretching just about seven kilometers from end to end. Its “heart” consists of two main squares, connected by the lush and leafy Zugdidi Boulevard, which spans 511 meters. A walk down this charming avenue places you under the cooling canopy of expansive trees, and along the way, you’ll find most of the city’s cafés—perfect spots to enjoy a delicious meal or a coffee break.

Around 300 meters from the beginning of the boulevard, you’ll come across the Odishi Hotel, followed closely by the post office and the “Atriumi” cinema. At the boulevard’s southern end stands the city hall, prominently located near Rustaveli Street.

The southern terminus of the boulevard opens onto Freedom Square, which houses the Samegrelo administrative offices and several banks. To the north lies Central Square, from which Theatrical Street begins. A short walk of 200–350 meters down this street brings you to the Sh. Dadiani Drama Theater, with the city’s stadium located just north of it. Circling around the stadium leads to a scenic alleyway that guides visitors directly to the Dadiani Palace.

Running parallel to the boulevard is Z. Gamsakhurdia Street, another key artery of the city. Crossing north of the center is Sh. Rustaveli Street—follow it westward, and you’ll reach Zugdidi’s bustling local market. Here, you can find not only fresh produce and delicious local specialties but also an array of handmade souvenirs.

Continue past the market for another 600 meters, and you’ll arrive at Zugdidi’s railway station. From Rustaveli Street, you can spot the legendary Svan tower—an unmistakable symbol that Svaneti is close at hand. Notably, the square around the tower is the central departure point for all marshrutkas (shared taxis) heading to Svaneti.

Zugdidi has two primary transportation hubs. The main bus terminal is located near the railway station. The second, known as the “Central Terminal,” lies just east of the Botanical Garden, across the road. From here, you can catch buses to several major destinations:

• Tbilisi: Tickets cost 27 GEL (about $10), with departures every 90 minutes.

• Batumi: Fares start at 15 GEL (around $6), with hourly departures.

• Poti: Buses leave at 10:00 AM daily, with fares starting at 10 GEL (about $2.70).

If you’re traveling from Tbilisi, you can also take the train. The express train from Tbilisi to Zugdidi offers a fast and comfortable ride. It departs the capital at 8:20 AM and arrives in Zugdidi at 3:08 PM. Second-class tickets are priced at 17 GEL (approximately $6.20), while first-class seats cost 29 GEL (roughly $10.50).