Rike Park
Rike Park is one of the newest parks in Tbilisi, founded in 2010 to commemorate Georgia's independence. The area was initially considered an island, but after the river silted up, it was reinforced and later transformed into a park. The name "Rike" translates from Georgian as "on the sands," which reflects the artificial nature of the garden.
Features of the Park
The park is located on the left bank of the Mtkvari River (Kura) and is a multifunctional entertainment complex that includes the Bridge of Peace and a concert hall. The bridge provides a direct connection to the Old Town.
Due to its relatively young age, Rike Park does not have century-old trees that can provide shade on hot days, but it still attracts visitors with its interesting features, including:
Sports and recreational areas
Children's playgrounds
Walking and jogging paths, as well as cycling and skateboarding tracks
Singing fountains
Cafes
The park is particularly crowded during the celebration of Georgia's Independence Day on May 26. Various contests, concerts, and festivals take place during this time, along with shows for both children and adults.
Main Attractions
Rike Park attracts many people, both children and adults, who come to relax, take photos, and breathe fresh air. The park offers several popular attractions:
Cultural Center
The most famous landmark in Rike Park is the Cultural Center. Visitors are particularly intrigued by its unique design, resembling two tubes. Originally, one tube was intended to house an exhibition hall, while the other was meant to be a theater. However, construction was halted in 2013 for unknown reasons, and the building currently remains unused, serving as a distinctive symbol of the park.
Cable Car
The cable car is located in the part of the park near Europe Square. It allows visitors to:
Explore the Narikala Fortress
Visit the Church of Saint Nicholas
Take a stroll in the Botanical Garden
See the monument called "Mother of Kartli"
Amphitheater
The park also features an original structure, an open-air amphitheater, where local performers hold concerts during the warm season.
Bridge of Peace
The Bridge of Peace is considered the starting point of Rike Park. It was constructed in 2010 by Italian architect Michele de Lucchi. The bridge is particularly stunning in the evening when its numerous lights illuminate the surroundings.
Getting There
You can reach the park by:
- Walking
You can walk to the park across the Bridge of Peace.
- Taking the metro
If you take the metro, you should exit at the "Avlabari" station.
- Taking the bus
If you take the bus, you should get off at the "Europe Square" stop.
