33 Memed Abashidze Street / 8 Nikoloz Baratashvili Street, Batumi
Brief Description of the Monument:
At the end of the 19th century, this property, initially owned by Vakier—a Frenchman under Russian allegiance—was purchased by the Iakobashvili brothers, representatives of the merchant class, who constructed a two-story building on the site. In 1902, it became the post and telegraph office and served communication functions for over a century, making it one of the oldest such buildings in Georgia.
The façades are richly decorated with stucco elements in a Renaissance-Baroque style. At regular intervals, they are segmented by risalits topped with curved pediments. The surface of the first floor is articulated with horizontal grooves. Its rhythmically arranged, simply framed rectangular openings are united by a horizontal band adorned with vegetal ornamentation.
The second floor is more densely embellished, featuring sculptural wall elements and ornamental details. The wall surface is segmented by raised horizontal bands. A parapet, decorated with a row of circular motifs, crowns the building.
Originally, the building had two main entrances facing Memed Abashidze Avenue. In front of each, there are porches supported by cast-iron columns and adorned with intricate wrought iron details.
Today, only the historic façade remains. However, the surviving authentic elements provide a clear impression of the building’s original appearance.