Batumi, Nikoloz Baratashvili Street No. 23
Brief description of the monument:
Built in the 1880s on the current site of the Batumi Circus, this building originally served as an iron warehouse owned by a Belgian named Marchot. The structure became renowned from 1891 onwards for hosting theatrical performances, earning it the name (Iron Theater.) It accommodated around 900 spectators, and notably, world-famous dancer Isadora Duncan performed there in 1923. After 1924, the Soviet Circus was built on the ruins of the Iron Theater and underwent substantial renovations in 1959.
The building possesses a complex plan, yet its primary core maintains the circular form characteristic of circus architecture. Facing Baratashvili Street and an adjoining lane, it has two-story wings projecting from either side, with the corner distinctly accentuated by a risalit crowned with a pediment housing the main entrance. Behind these wings lies a circular auditorium with a seating capacity of approximately 1,000 spectators. This auditorium is topped by a hemispherical dome measuring 22 meters in diameter, culminating in a circular lantern lined with windows. Originally, the dome was surmounted by a spire.
The two-story wings facing the street rest upon a medium-height stone socle, featuring rusticated walls. Rectangular windows line the first floor, while the second floor features framed arched windows interconnected by a brown-colored horizontal band matching their moldings. A similarly colored molding separates the socle from the wall surface. The upper portion of the walls concludes with a robust cornice. The main entrance, rectangular with wooden quadruple doors, was initially covered by a semicircular balcony supported by two circular columns. Currently, these columns are replaced with rectangular pillars. Above the balcony, the façade features a prominent arched stained-glass window and pediment. Additionally, three smaller rectangular entrances are placed along the wings.
Along Nikoloz Baratashvili Street, an elongated courtyard adjacent to the building is enclosed by a simple iron gate. Upon entry, a spacious vestibule leads to the circular auditorium, surrounded by a ring-shaped corridor.
This massive building, with its rounded core, intricate layout, and two-story wings, occupies nearly an entire city block, defining its urban environment and contributing significantly to Batumi’s architectural heritage.
