With a population of about 1.5 million, it is a major economic and cultural centre. Tbilisi is famous for its historical monuments and gorgeous architecture, which include the Sioni Cathedral Church that dates from the 5th century and the ancient Narikhala fortress .
Visitors can also take in the local theatre scene.
Three of the city's most famous and long-established theatres are situated in Rustaveli Avenue, including the Paliashvili Opera House , founded in 1851. Palms, cypresses, magnolias, oleanders, lemon and orange trees, thuja and box trees grow flowering and fragrant in this thriving border town. Batumi is an industrial city and an old trading port. It has a variety of entertainment facilities, and a dolphinarium , of which the locals are extremely proud. Nearby are the botanical gardens which are a genuine highlight.