Spanning over the Kura (Mtkvari) River in Tbilisi, Georgia, the Nikoloz Baratashvili Bridge forms a harmonious connection between the city center and its historic districts. Erected in 1965, this bridge is the brainchild of architects Shota Kavlashvili and Vladimer Kurtishvili and replaced the former Mukhrani Bridge.
The Baratashvili Bridge, also known as the Bridge of Love, has become a symbol of romance and love in Tbilisi. This is largely due to its bronze figures adorning the railings, which depict couples in love, a tribute to its namesake, the Georgian romanticism poet Nikoloz Baratashvili.
Beyond its function as a traffic and pedestrian bridge, the Baratashvili Bridge is also an ideal starting point for exploration of the city's cultural, historical, and modern architectural highlights. Near the bridge, one can find the 6th-century Anchiskhati Church, the ruins of the old city, and the Gabriadze Puppet Theater, one of Tbilisi's most famous and attractive buildings. Modern architectural marvels like the House of Justice and the Palace of State Ceremonies are also nearby, lending a contemporary flair to the vicinity.
Numerous cafes, restaurants, and hotels in the vicinity offer a chance to indulge in local culinary delights or take a relaxing break. In parallel to the visually stunning Bridge of Peace, the Baratashvili Bridge extends to Tbilisi Airport via a recently renovated highway, contributing to its practicality and convenience for both locals and visitors.
This captivating blend of history, romance, and architectural grandeur makes the Baratashvili Bridge an integral part of Tbilisi's charm, worth exploring during your visit.