Dominating Georgia's entertainment landscape, the Black Sea Arena stands tall as the country's largest concert venue and multi-purpose facility. This monumental structure, boasting a seating capacity for 10,000 spectators, is positioned scenically on the Black Sea coast in Shekvetili, Guria, just 45 km (around 28 miles) north of Georgia's second-largest city, Batumi.
An architectural masterpiece designed by the seasoned experts from the German company Drei Architekten, the Black Sea Arena adds to the splendor of the Caucasus. Its colossal size of 30,000 square meters (about 322,917 square feet) coupled with an innovative, circular grandstand design renders it the largest open concert hall in the region. Its top-of-the-line equipment, incredible acoustics, and versatile technical features make it a coveted venue for an array of large-scale events and world-renowned stars.
The arena was inaugurated in grand fashion on July 30, 2016, with a dazzling performance by American singer-songwriter Christina Aguilera. Since then, it has played host to a spectacular lineup of international stars, including rock bands like Aerosmith and Scorpions, pop icons like Elton John and The Black Eyed Peas, and virtuosos like Ennio Morricone and Vanessa Mae. Furthermore, the Black Sea Arena regularly gives center stage to local Georgian artists, affirming its commitment to promoting the local art scene.
Not just a stage, the Black Sea Arena is a marvel of modern architecture. The open-air amphitheater-style concert hall features movable light walls and a retractable roof, underlining its adaptability. The versatile 638-square-meter (about 6867-square-feet) stage offers clear visibility from any vantage point in the hall. The arena also houses a small cinema, adding another layer to its multifunctional prowess. These innovative features have not gone unnoticed, with the arena scooping the "German Design Award" in 2020 in the category of best modern architecture.
A stone's throw away from the Black Sea Arena is the charming Musicians' Park, a verdant space adorned with unique plants and monuments. Since its establishment in 2016, it has become a hotspot for tourists, with visitor numbers increasing year on year. Adjacent to the park lies The Social Space, a community hub designed to foster environmental awareness and foster connections among people.
Getting to the Black Sea Arena is hassle-free. You can drive or take the train to Shekvetili, Guria. For added convenience on concert days, special minibuses run from Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi, taking you directly to the concert hall. Come and experience the magic of the Black Sea Arena and be part of the vibrant cultural environment of Georgia.
