Bridge of Peace
Tbilisi
The Bridge of Peace is a distinctive bow-shaped pedestrian bridge spanning 150 meters over the Kura River in central Tbilisi. Opened in 2010, it connects the historic Old Town with the new district, serving both as a vital crossing and a celebrated city landmark. Designed by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi, the bridge features a curvilinear steel and glass canopy that shimmers with an interactive LED light display created by French lighting designer Philippe Martinaud. The canopy is fitted with 1,208 custom LED fixtures, while the glass handrails contain embedded linear LED arrays activated by motion sensors, creating a dynamic lighting experience for pedestrians. The bridge offers scenic views of notable landmarks such as Metekhi Church, the statue of Vakhtang Gorgasali, Narikala Fortress, Baratashvili Bridge, and the Ceremonial Palace of Georgia. Its lighting programs include wave-like effects, star twinkles, and a Morse code message of the periodic table of elements, symbolizing life and peace. Despite its popularity, the bridge's contemporary style sparked debate among critics who felt it overshadowed the historical architecture of the old town. Nevertheless, it remains one of Tbilisi's most recognizable and photogenic attractions.
Plan your trip to Georgia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit the Bridge of Peace is during the evening when its LED light displays are active, starting 90 minutes before sunset and continuing until 90 minutes after sunrise. Visitors are encouraged to walk across the bridge to experience the motion-activated lighting effects and enjoy views of Tbilisi's historic landmarks. No advance ticket purchase is required as the bridge is a public pedestrian crossing. Visiting on clear nights enhances the visual impact of the illumination. Guided tours of Tbilisi often include the bridge as a highlight, providing historical context and architectural insights.
Interesting facts
- •The bridge is illuminated by 1,208 custom LED fixtures creating dynamic light shows.
- •Its glass handrails contain motion sensors that trigger lights as pedestrians cross, producing a unique interactive experience.
- •Every hour, the bridge displays a Morse code message of the periodic table of elements across its parapets.
- •The bridge's design resembles a marine animal and features a curvy steel and glass canopy.
- •The lighting programs include four distinct patterns that cycle hourly, including waves and star-like twinkles.
- •The bridge was transported from Italy to Georgia in 200 trucks for assembly on site.
- •Locals have nicknamed it the "Always Ultra" bridge due to its perceived resemblance to a ladies' maxi-pad.
History
The Bridge of Peace was commissioned by the Tbilisi City Hall to create a modern architectural link between Old Tbilisi and the new district.
It was designed by Michele De Lucchi and officially opened on May 6, 2010.
The steel and glass structure was prefabricated in Italy and transported to Tbilisi in 200 trucks for assembly.
Its construction marked a contemporary addition to the cityscape, aiming to blend modern design with historic surroundings.
The bridge's innovative lighting system was developed by Philippe Martinaud, adding an interactive and symbolic element to the structure.
While celebrated for its design, the bridge also faced criticism for dominating the historic district's skyline and altering its traditional aesthetic.
Place Guide
Canopy and LED Lighting2010
The curvilinear steel and glass canopy is fitted with over 1,200 custom LED fixtures that create interactive light shows visible at night. The lighting patterns include waves, star twinkles, and Morse code messages, enhancing the pedestrian experience.
Glass Handrails with Motion Sensors2010
The bridge's glass railings contain embedded linear LED arrays that light up in response to pedestrian movement, triggered by 240 motion sensors, giving the impression that the bridge lights up individually for each person crossing.
Views from the Bridge
From the bridge, visitors can see historic landmarks including the Metekhi Church, the statue of Vakhtang Gorgasali, Narikala Fortress, Baratashvili Bridge, and the Ceremonial Palace of Georgia, offering a panoramic perspective of Tbilisi's old and new districts.
