Bridge of Peace
A 150-metre glass and steel footbridge over the Mtkvari, opened in 2010, linking the Old Town with Rike Park and lit by LEDs at night.
Bridge of PeacePhoto: ako-aleko, CC BY-SA 3.0The Bridge of Peace is a curving pedestrian bridge of steel and glass that crosses the Mtkvari between Old Tbilisi and Rike Park. Designed by the Italian architect Michele De Lucchi, it opened in May 2010 and quickly became one of the city's symbols, though its modern look divided opinion at first. The wave-shaped canopy is fitted with LED lighting, designed by Philippe Martinaud, which switches on around sunset and plays light sequences through the night. In the evening it is one of the busiest meeting points and photo spots in Tbilisi.
Crossing takes only a few minutes, so combine it with a walk. On the left bank, Rike Park has the lower station of the Narikala cable car, fountains and two large tube-shaped buildings, also controversial, built as a concert hall and exhibition space. On the Old Town side, steps lead up towards Erekle II Street, Anchiskhati and the cafe streets. The best views of the bridge itself are from Narikala, the cable car or the Metekhi cliff.
History
The bridge was part of a wave of new landmark architecture commissioned by Tbilisi's authorities in the late 2000s. Designed by Michele De Lucchi, with lighting by Philippe Martinaud, it was officially opened on 6 May 2010. It is 150 metres long, and its 1,208 custom LED fixtures and 240 motion sensors in the handrail glass make it as much a light installation as a river crossing.
What to see and do
- Walk across at dusk as the LED canopy lights up
- Photograph the bridge from Narikala or the cable car
- Continue into Rike Park and the cable car station
- Climb the steps into the Old Town cafe streets
How to visit
Getting there
The bridge links Rike Park with the Old Town near Erekle II Street, about 10 minutes' walk from Freedom Square or Avlabari metro station.
When to go
After sunset. Plan 15–30 minutes here.
- Come after dark for the light display.
- Combine with the cable car to Narikala from Rike Park.
- Summer evenings are crowded; come early in the morning for empty photos.
Bridge of Peace: FAQ
When does the Bridge of Peace light up?
The LED lighting switches on around sunset and runs through the night. The display is most impressive in the first hours after dark.
Who designed the Bridge of Peace in Tbilisi?
The Italian architect Michele De Lucchi designed the bridge, with lighting by French designer Philippe Martinaud. It opened in 2010.
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Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Bridge of Peace.
