Piazza Square

Piazza Square – Batumi's Italian-Inspired Heart

Overview

Located in the historic Old Town of Batumi, Piazza Square is a stunning architectural gem that transports visitors from the Black Sea coast to an authentic Italian piazza. Built in 2010 as part of the city's old neighborhood rehabilitation program, this 5,700-square-meter public square was designed by Georgian architect Vazha Orbeladze, who drew inspiration from the famous Piazza San Marco in Venice. The result is a captivating blend of Mediterranean charm and Georgian hospitality, featuring low buildings adorned with stained glass paintings and mosaic patterns, a magnificent central marble floor mosaic—one of the largest in Europe—and a vibrant atmosphere filled with cafes, restaurants, hotels, a children‘s entertainment center, and even a clock with moving figures. Today, Piazza Square serves as the largest venue for cultural events in the city and is a favorite gathering place for both Batumi residents and tourists.

Location & Contact

Operating Hours

💡 The square is closed to traffic, making it ideal for relaxed walks at any time of day or night.

The Mosaic: One of Europe's Largest

The centerpiece of Piazza Square is its breathtaking marble floor mosaic, which ranks among the largest in Europe. This extraordinary work of art was created in 2010 with an original sketch by Natalie de Pita-Amirejibi.

Production & Installation

The mosaic was manufactured in Abu Dhabi by the company Fantine Mosaic and then transported to Batumi. The installation process involved:

• 88,244,735 cut and processed marble slabs
• Merged into 1,764,895 individual segments
• Assembled over just 10 days

Materials

The mosaic is crafted from marble collected from fifteen countries around the world. The violet dress of the violet goddess and parts of the red dress of the second goddess are made of ceramic material, adding texture and depth to the composition.

The Concept: Sea and Urban Life

The mosaic‘s design concept beautifully represents the fusion of the everlasting movement of the sea and the continuous development of modern urban space. The composition consists of eight circles of different diameters that are directly intertwined, resembling water ripples on a calm sea surface. All circles are decorated with various ornamental and figurative elements.

The Five Goddesses of the Sea

The central inner circle features a striking figurative composition of five female figures representing the sea‘s many faces. These figures show the female face of the sea goddess, each wearing different colored dresses:

💡 A charming detail: the prototype of the central figure (the little mermaid) is the daughter of the designer – five-year-old Romina.

Architecture & Design

The square is surrounded by low houses adorned with stained glass paintings and mosaic patterns on their facades, creating an enchanting Mediterranean atmosphere.

Notable Features

• Stained glass windows – Colorful, artistic windows decorating the surrounding buildings
• Mosaic patterns on facades – Intricate decorative elements on building exteriors
• Clock with moving figures – A unique clock tower feature
• Fountain – Central water feature adding to the ambiance
• Traffic-free zone – Pedestrian-only square for relaxed strolling

Design Inspiration

Architect Vazha Orbeladze specifically set out to create a corner of Italy in the capital of Adjara. The result is something remarkably similar to Venice‘s famous Piazza San Marco. Italian scenery has been perfectly integrated into Batumi‘s historic district, creating a unique fusion of cultures.

Dining & Entertainment

Restaurants & Cafes

The square is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and hotels. Notable establishments include:

Entertainment Options

• Live music – Available at multiple venues including La Brioche
• Live jams and DJs – At Place Batumi
• Evening music throughout the square
• Street performers – Often entertain the crowds
• Vintage photo booth – Retro instant camera – 6 GEL per photo

Children's Entertainment

The square also features a children's entertainment center, making it a family-friendly destination.

Cultural Events

Piazza Square serves as the largest venue for cultural events in Batumi. The open, pedestrian-friendly space regularly hosts:

• Live concerts and performances
• Public festivals and celebrations
• Community gatherings
• Seasonal events

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit

What to Know

• Entry – Free
• Typical visit duration – 30 minutes to 2 hours (longer if dining)
• Wi-Fi – Available at most cafes and restaurants
• Parking – No dedicated parking; limited street parking available
• Pet-friendly – Many establishments welcome dogs
• Accessibility – Wheelchair accessible (flat, paved square)

How to Get There

Piazza Square is located in the historic center of Batumi on Parnavaz Mepe Street:

Public Transport: Nearest bus stops at Gogebashvili Street, 26 (buses #1, 10, 10a, 15) and Baratashvili Street, 26 (buses #3, 4, 7, 9, 9a, 11, 13).

💡 The square is accessible from three streets: Tsar Parnavaz Street, Vakhtang Gorgasali Street, and General Mazniashvili Street.

What to Bring

• Sun hat and sunscreen – Even in spring, the sun can be strong
• Camera – The mosaic and stained glass are highly photogenic
• Cash and cards – Most establishments accept both

Nearby Attractions

Piazza Square is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other Batumi highlights:

Why You Should Go

Whether you're seeking:

• A stunning photo opportunity – The marble mosaic and stained glass facades are truly unique
• An atmospheric dining experience – Surrounded by European-style architecture and live music
• A central gathering place – Perfect for meeting friends or people-watching
• Family-friendly entertainment – With restaurants, cafes, and a children‘s center
• A taste of Italy in Georgia – Without leaving the Black Sea coast

Piazza Square offers a captivating blend of Mediterranean elegance and Georgian warmth in the heart of Batumi's Old Town. It is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this vibrant Black Sea city.

Getting There

Piazza Square is located at 25 Parnavaz Mepe Street in Batumi‘s historic center. From Europe Square, walk south for approximately 5 minutes. From Batumi Boulevard, head east for about 10 minutes. The square is pedestrian-only, so plan to arrive on foot, by taxi, or via public transport to nearby bus stops. Its central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the city center, and it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding Old Town attractions.