Georgian travel guides overlook constantly a little town nestled between steep, rocky hills in the Imereti region. Home to roughly 30,000 people, the city perfectly embraces the industrial mix of Soviet mining and communist lifestyle. Although the Georgian and the European flag wave in front of the police station, driving into the city rather feels like diving into a Soviet propaganda dream. When entering the town a pompous WW2 sculpture greets its visitors, while reminding the residents of their sacrifice and honor. Excited to pass by other architectural, Soviet-inspired masterpieces, the realization of this unique sculpture comes quickly, as it is the only mesmerizing work showcasing political lavishness. Chiatura – a name suitable for a sunny Italian village on the Mediterranean coast – found its purpose in mining; clearly visible at the protuberating mining ropeways scattered ubiquitously around the city.

Time seems to have stood still conserving its picturesque character, yet the fading importance of mining has taken its toll on apartment blocks and industrial complexes. It remains a rarity discovering a construction with an impeccable plastering, leaving only churches and monasteries as the only aesthetic gems of the town. The brick and mortar architecture covering the vast majority of the city is remarkably different at the main street, whose buildings are ornamented with fine touches of neo-classic and totalitarian design. Strolling along its sidewalks, it almost feels estranging from the town - maybe it serves the function of a cultural refuge from hours of hard work belowground.

Visitors are urged to act against their better judgment by taking the free-of-charge ropeways carrying them up to the top of the surrounding hills. The oldest and most hair-raising two cable cars depart at the same spot, right next to the neo-classical street, as if the city planners wanted to juxtapose them on purpose. Entering the metal gondola, only small windows allow a glimpse outside while ascending almost vertically for a few minutes. Back on solid ground, the camera’s shutter-release button will definitely find its use very quickly as one's gaze is eye-poppingly staring over the city.

Leaving the city, a nostalgic memory remains, which is able to take the mind back in time to the Soviet mining lifestyle.

Transport:

Minibuses depart hourly from Tbilisi

WHERE TO STAY:

Hotel Pirosmani is highly recommendable with fantastic Chacha and authentic regional stews and salads - Tabagrebi street 7, Chiatura 2000

By Benjamin Music

Photo: Brutal Tours