Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi

Rustaveli Avenue, named for Georgia’s revered 12th-century poet Shota Rustaveli, stretches approximately 1.5 km from Freedom Square to the Rustaveli Metro Station. Originally laid out in the mid-19th century as part of a European-style urban development under Russian rule, the avenue was known then as Golovin Avenue before being renamed in 1918 to honor Georgian cultural identity.

Walking down Rustaveli, visitors encounter an impressive array of Tbilisi’s cultural and public institutions. Highlights include the Parliament of Georgia, the Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater, the Rustaveli State Academic Theater, the Georgian Academy of Sciences, Kashveti Church, and the Georgian Museum of Fine Arts.

Beyond its grand buildings, Rustaveli thrives as a hub of urban life, blending cafés, boutique shops, galleries, and souvenir stalls. Underground passages showcase art and exhibitions, while street musicians and small sculptures-like playful bronze figures by local artist Levan Bujiashvili-add character and charm.

Rustaveli Avenue has also worn many of Georgia’s pivotal moments-from the signing of independence declarations and political protests to Rose Revolution marches and New Year celebrations. Its role as a civic platform continues as much as its role as a cultural showcase.