Tomb of Iusuf Tsivadze

The tomb of Iusuf Khuseinis-dze Tsivadze sits in the historic centre of Batumi, within the grounds of the old Muslim cemetery. It is a quiet spot that preserves part of the city’s multicultural past and the memory of a well-known local figure from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Historical Context & Significance

Iusuf Tsivadze was a notable person in Adjara’s social life at the turn of the 20th century. His grave is one of the better-preserved markers in the old cemetery and is listed as a protected cultural heritage monument. The site reflects the period when Batumi was a busy port with Muslim, Christian and Jewish communities living side by side, and it helps document family names, social status and funerary customs of that era.

Architecture & Hidden Details to Look For

The headstone is a typical example of late Ottoman-period funerary art in Adjara. Look for:

• Epigraphic carvings in Arabic script with the name, lineage and dates.
• Geometric and vegetal ornament framing the inscription.
• The stone’s proportions and finish, which indicate the work of a skilled local craftsman. The carving is weathered but still legible, offering a direct link to the writing style and stonework of the time.

Visitor Information & How to Get There

The cemetery is in central Batumi, among the old residential streets. Road access is by paved city streets; the lanes around the site are narrow and parking is limited, so many visitors park a few blocks away and walk. The area is flat and easy to reach on foot from the Old Batumi quarter. There are no gates or ticket offices.

Practical Travel Tips for Respectful Tourism

• This is a historic burial ground. Keep voices low and do not step on graves.
• Entry is free and the site is open year-round.
• Spring and autumn offer mild weather for walking the old streets.
• Signage is minimal; save the location on a map beforehand or ask locals for the old Muslim cemetery.
• Photography is possible, but stay respectful and avoid posing on stones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tomb accessible year-round?

Yes. The site is outdoors and has no opening hours. It can be visited in any season.

Do I need a guide to find it?

Not strictly. The spot is central, but a local guide helps interpret the inscriptions and the history of the cemetery.

How much time should I plan?

30–60 minutes is enough to see the tomb and look at nearby stones.

What to See Nearby

Within walking distance are the Batumi Archaeological Museum, the Orta Jame Mosque, and the 19th-century houses of Old Batumi. A short walk brings you to the seaside boulevard and Europe Square.