Batumi Lighthouse

In the very heart of the "Park of Miracles", among modern attractions and sculptures, stands a silent witness of history - the Batumi Lighthouse. This elegant snow-white structure, about 20 meters high, is the oldest building on the famous Batumi Boulevard and an important monument of cultural heritage. Its history dates back to 1863, when the first, simpler lighthouse was installed here during the Ottoman Empire. The current stone building was erected after Batumi came under the control of the Russian Empire, in 1878-1882, according to the design of French engineers.

Amazingly, this historic lighthouse is still in operation. Its red light flashes every night to guide ships out to 14 nautical miles in the Black Sea, although today its glow is sometimes lost among the bright lights of the modern city. Inside the building, reached by a 75-step staircase and off-limits to tourists, is a hydrographic service that monitors weather conditions 24 hours a day.

Many people are surprised why the lighthouse is not located at the water's edge, but deep in the embankment, surrounded by attractions. The answer is simple: the sea used to come right up to its foot, but over time the coastline was artificially expanded, moving the beach several dozen meters away. Today, the Batumi lighthouse, located next to the Ferris wheel and the sculpture "Ali and Nino", creates a unique contrast, where the past and the present are intertwined, reminding us of the rich maritime history of the city and its steady progress.