The Ali and Nino Monument is a captivating piece of kinetic art located in Batumi, Georgia, along the city's seaside boulevard. Created by Georgian artist Tamara Kvesitadze in 2010, the sculpture symbolizes eternal love and understanding between different cultures and religions. Standing approximately 8 meters tall, the two figures, one male and the other female, slowly move toward each other, merge for a brief moment, and then continue moving apart in a mesmerizing cycle.
The Ali and Nino Monument stands as a testament to love, unity, and cultural diversity, making it one of Batumi's most iconic landmarks. Inspired by the 1937 novel Ali and Nino by Kurban Said, the sculpture tells the story of a tragic romance between Ali, a Muslim Azerbaijani, and Nino, a Christian from Georgia. Their love faces challenges from societal expectations, war, and cultural differences, ultimately ending in separation. The novel has become a symbol of the interplay between East and West, tradition and modernity.
Tamara Kvesitadze masterfully encapsulated this poignant tale in her kinetic sculpture. The figures, made from steel plates, move in a hypnotic, synchronized pattern. Every evening, as the sun sets over Batumi's coastline, the figures draw closer, symbolizing the unity and intimacy of love, and then drift apart, reflecting the inevitable separations in life. The constant motion mirrors the complexities of relationships and the dynamic nature of human connection.
Beyond its artistic and cultural significance, the monument is a marvel of engineering and design. Its elegant simplicity and symbolic movement resonate deeply with viewers, making it a powerful visual metaphor for love transcending barriers.
All guests and residents of Batumi are welcome to visit this beautiful monument. Whether you’re drawn by its artistic innovation, cultural storytelling, or its picturesque setting, the Ali and Nino Monument is a must-see landmark that encapsulates the spirit of Batumi as a city where tradition meets modernity.
Location
The Ali and Nino Monument is situated at the entrance of Batumi Harbor, within the Park of Wonders, along the edge of the city’s vibrant boulevard. It stands adjacent to the Ferris wheel, which serves as a recognizable landmark visible from afar. This area offers a scenic and lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings when crowds gather to enjoy the surroundings. The statue is easily accessible by foot or taxi from the city center, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking a blend of art, culture, and breathtaking coastal views.