Nutsubidze Skybridge: Tbilisi's Soaring Soviet Legacy
Explore Tbilisi's iconic Nutsubidze Skybridge: A Brutalist marvel offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Soviet-era urban design.
Rising from the Nutsubidze district, the Skybridge is more than just an apartment complex; it's a symbol of a bygone era. Constructed between 1974 and 1976, the Skybridge embodies the architectural style of Brutalism with its raw concrete and geometric shapes. Designed by architects Otar Kalandarishvili and Gizo Potskhishvili, the Skybridge was intended to be part of a larger network of skybridges connecting neighborhoods, but the full plan was never realized. The Skybridge stands as a testament to ambitious urban planning and Soviet ideals. The state-owned apartments were distributed to blue and white-collar workers. Today, many residents have called the Skybridge home for their entire lives, creating a unique community within its walls. Visitors can access the skybridges via a public elevator located in the back of the first building. The elevator ride itself is an experience, costing 20 tetri per person each way. From the top, you can venture onto the metal walkways connecting the buildings and soak in panoramic views of Tbilisi. The Skybridge offers a unique lens through which to view both the past and present of this complex city.
Local tips
- Bring exact change (20 tetri coins) for the elevator, as the machine does not provide change.
- Visit in the late afternoon or early evening for the best light and sunset views.
- Be respectful of the residents and their homes while exploring the Skybridge.
- Consider joining a Brutalist-themed tour for a deeper understanding of the Skybridge's history and architecture.
A brief summary to Nutsubidze Skybridge
- PPG9+CHX, Tbilisi, Vake-Saburtalo, GE
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
The easiest way to reach the Nutsubidze Skybridge is by metro. Take the Saburtalo line to State University station, which is about a 6-minute (450m) walk away from the Skybridge. Alternatively, buses #326 and #347 stop directly outside the first building on Nutsubidze Street. A single metro or bus fare costs 1 GEL.
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Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from Freedom Square to the Skybridge typically costs around 15 GEL when booked through Bolt. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Be sure to specify the destination as Nutsubidze Skybridge or 213 Shalva Nutsubidze Street.
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Walking
From State University metro station, walk north-west on Sandro Euli Street, then turn left onto Shalva Nutsubidze Street. Continue for approximately 400m, and the Skybridge will be on your left. Look for the first building near the police station.
