Selim Khimshiashvili Monument

At the busy crossroads of Ilia Chavchavadze and Selim Khimshiashvili streets in central Batumi, a bronze figure watches over the traffic. The monument honors Selim Khimshiashvili, an 18th-19th century leader from Upper Adjara whose name is tied to the region’s struggle for autonomy under Ottoman pressure. It is a quick, meaningful stop on a walk through the city center.

Historical Context & Significance

Selim Khimshiashvili belonged to the powerful Khimshiashvili dynasty that governed the mountainous districts of Adjara. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries the family balanced relations with the Ottoman administration while trying to keep local authority in the highlands. Selim is remembered as a political actor who defended regional interests at a time when borders, faith and trade routes were shifting along the Black Sea coast. Placing his statue in modern Batumi links the coastal city with the highland history of Adjara and underlines the continuity of local identity.

Architecture & Hidden Details to Look For

The work is a bronze full-length statue set on a stone pedestal. The figure is shown in traditional noble dress with a firm posture and a focused gaze. Look for:

• The inscription on the pedestal with the name and dates in Georgian script.
• The detailing of the belt, dagger and coat folds that reference highland clothing.
• The orientation of the statue toward the intersection, making it visible from both streets. The monument is modest in scale and designed for street-level viewing.

Visitor Information & How to Get There

The site sits at a signalized intersection in central Batumi. Road access is easy by car via Chavchavadze St, one of the city’s main avenues. Streets are paved and in good condition. Parking is limited right at the corner; drivers usually use paid on-street spaces or side streets a block away and walk the last 1-2 minutes. The pavement around the monument is flat and accessible on foot, with pedestrian crossings on all sides.

Practical Travel Tips for Respectful Tourism

• Visit in morning or late evening when traffic is lighter and light is better for photos.
• Stay on the sidewalk for safety and for clear photos of the pedestal.
• Keep the visit brief, 15–30 minutes is enough for reading the inscription and taking pictures.
• Combine it with other central sites to avoid extra driving in busy hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee?

No. The monument stands in the open street and is free to visit at any time.

Can I read the inscription if I don’t know Georgian?

The main text is in Georgian. Use a translation app to get the meaning, or note the name Selim Khimshiashvili and dates for later reference.

Is it worth a special trip?

It is best as a short stop while exploring central Batumi, not as a standalone destination.

What to See Nearby

• Batumi Boulevard and the seafront, a 5-10 minute drive south.
• Batumi Archaeological Museum for context on Adjara’s ancient and Ottoman periods.
• Europe Square and Medea Statue, a central gathering point with cafes and architecture.
• Dancing Fountains on the boulevard, popular in the evening.