The Bridge of Peace and Erekle II Street
Why is it significant?
Arrive at the pedestrian nexus of Erekle II Street and the stunning Bridge of Peace, spanning the Mtkvari River with fluid architectural grace.
Key Facts
| Place | The Bridge of Peace and Erekle II Street |
|---|---|
| Address | Erekle II Street, 0105 Tbilisi, Georgia |
| Geo Coordinates | 41.69380, 44.80800 |
| Part of Walk | Old Tbilisi: Sulphur Baths of Abanotubani, Narikala Fortress, and Kala |
| Generated | Generated |
Arrive at the pedestrian nexus of Erekle II Street and the stunning Bridge of Peace, spanning the Mtkvari River with fluid architectural grace. Designed by acclaimed Italian architect Michele De Lucchi and inaugurated in May 2010, this 156-meter-long undulating steel-and-glass footbridge connects the ancient alleys of Kala with the modern lawns of Rike Park. Its flowing, marine-like canopy resembles a gentle wave or a marine creature rising gracefully from the rushing waters of the historic river.
Walk beneath the canopy to inspect the intricate steel bowstring truss system and thousands of embedded low-voltage LED lights. Created by French lighting designer Philippe Martinaud, the illumination system pulses with a sophisticated light show at dusk, spelling out the chemical elements of the human body in Morse code. The lighting design conveys a powerful philosophical message of universal human solidarity, peaceful coexistence, and shared planetary responsibility regardless of race or creed.
The bridge caused intense debate among architectural purists when first unveiled, with critics arguing that its ultra-modern glass shell clashed with the historic brick skyline of Old Tbilisi. However, it swiftly won the hearts of locals and international travelers alike, becoming one of the most photographed and beloved landmarks in modern Georgia. Today, it is celebrated worldwide as a striking physical metaphor for Georgia's confident leap from a turbulent past into an enlightened European future.
Standing at the midpoint of the bridge, enjoy an unparalleled vantage point over both banks of the capital. Downstream, ancient cliff-top churches and fortress battlements stand proud against the mountains, while the river current sparkles beneath your feet through glass deck panels. The Bridge of Peace offers an exhilarating bridge between ancient heritage and contemporary artistic daring.
Follow the pedestrian cobblestones of Shavteli Street north toward Anchiskhati Basilica and the Gabriadze Clock Tower.