The cathedral of the Dormition, which we name as “Bagrati Cathedral” was built in 11th century, by the king Bagrati the third as a symbol of unification of Georgia. The cathedral looks over the city. From the mountain Ukimerioni, where it stands, one can observe almost the whole Kutaisi. 

According to historical sources, the king’s residence was located on the left side of the river Rioni in the Middle Ages. A complex of several buildings located at the territory of White Bridge is described in the notes made by different travelers. From various assignment buildings included in this complex, only one withstood the test of time _ double-floured building, where the king held meetings and hosted honorable guests. The building is called “Golden Marque”. 

In the middle of the city, on its main square stands an interesting fountain. It is decorated with enlarged models of archaeological artefacts found on the whole territory of Georgia. For example, the famous bronze sculpture “Tamada”, which dates back to the 7th century BC. 

Kutaisi is a city of bridges and almost all of them are of historical significance. White Bridge is one of the main attractions of the city. It was built in 1850 by military engineer Vite. In 1860 the railings of the bridge were painted in white colour, which has determined its name _ White Bridge. White stones under the bridge, traceried, transparent railings, nice view of an old town _ the harmony of this composition creates a sense of airiness which is so attractive for locals as well as for tourists.

Interesting facts about the past of Kutaisi and its surrounding area can be discovered in Kutaisi State Historical Museum. It holds Antiquity and Bronze Age artefacts found on the territory of Western Georgia. You can observe unique items of Georgia’s cultural heritage, which date between IX - VII BC to the late Medieval period. 

A gallery located in the centre of the city holds important works of Georgian fine art. It was founded in 1974 and nowadays collects nearly 3000 exponents. A visitor will find out paintings of worldwide famous Georgian artists, such as Niko Pirosmani, David Kakabadze, Felix Varla. 

Zakaria Paliashvili, a prominent composer, conductor and one of the founders of the Georgian National Classical Composer School, was born in Kutaisi (1871-1933). He lived in Kutaisi until age 16. Zakaria Paliashvili created a style of Georgian classical music by synthesizing Georgian folk songs and world classical music. 

The building in the centre of the city, adorned with magnificent statues typical for Antique time is Kutaisi Opera House. At different times there were different establishments, but all of them were somehow connected to music. In 1969 new building was erected. Georgian, as well as internationally famous operas like Traviata, Rigoletto, Pagliacci (Clowns), are staged here till today.

Kutaisi drama theatre is the main attraction of the city’s central square. It was built in the 1950s, although the history of Kutaisi theatre began 100 years earlier. The first play was performed in 1861. Many famous Georgian artists and founders of Georgian theatre started their career in this theatre.

In XVII century, the missionaries of the Franciscan Order of Friars also known as the Capuchins arrived in Kutaisi and settled on the left bank of the River Rioni. Later, the territory was called the French Quarter. 

The history of Jewish people living in Georgia counts not only centuries but millenniums. Although, the first official notes about their settling dates the year 1644. The Jewish quarter is located in the central part of the city. In that territory, nowadays three synagogues are presented. The biggest of them is the second largest synagogue in Georgia, and it was built in 1886. 

In a futuristic structure, designed by Spanish architects Alberto Domingo and Carlos Nazaro Parliament of Georgia were functioning for 6 years. It is the first precedent of 21th-century creative architecture in Kutaisi. Its unique shapes and unusual structure create an impression of a spaceship.

Mtsvanekvavila church is located on the left bank of river Rioni, looking over the whole historic Jewish quarter. The main church was built in the 17th century. Another older church is of 1013 years but only its ruins have remained through difficult times. The name “Mtsvanekvavila” means Green Flower. In 1956 Pantheon of Writers and Public Figures was founded in the surrounding area of the church. 

Kutaisi’s central garden once was owned by princess Darejan, a daughter of Imeretian king Solomon the first. It was passed to her as a wedding gift when she married to Qaikhosro Abashidze. The princess possessed the garden before 1820. After that time the garden experienced many transformations, but its significance had never changed as it still remains the main gathering place for people living in Kutaisi. In the 19th century, people called the garden “Boulevard”. 

The botanical garden of Kutaisi opened in 1840, and it is located one kilometer away from Kutaisi’s central square. One will have a nice experience if she/he will walk this way from the historical “Chain Bridge” to the garden. On the way to the garden, you can examine the catholic quarter and their historical church, along with another church _ “Mtsvanekvavila”, which literally means “Green Flower”.