Tbilisi Mayor: Former Communications Ministry building is not a heritage site

“The reconstruction of the former Ministry of Communications building on Rustaveli Avenue will retain its original aesthetic features to the fullest extent possible,” Mayor of Tbilisi Kakha Kaladze announced at today’s municipal government meeting.

The Mayor firmly dismissed circulating claims alleging that the building holds listed heritage status and is therefore legally exempt from structural redevelopment.

“You have likely come across videos on social media spreading false information, claiming that the former Ministry of Communications building is an immovable cultural heritage monument and that its reconstruction is strictly prohibited. I state with full responsibility that this building is not a cultural heritage site. It will not become a high-rise residential block; instead, a hotel will be established here, and under the project design, the existing portal, the main entrance facing Rustaveli Avenue, will be fully preserved,” Kakha Kaladze stated.

He further revealed that the structure had previously been designated a Category 3-4 hazardous building status.

“I believe that once reconstructed, this building will truly adorn Rustaveli Avenue. An extension will also be built on the side facing Lesya Ukrainka Street, perfectly matching the building’s original design,” Kaladze added.