Tbilisi Demolishes Saakashvili-Era 'Rike Vases' Landmark
In Tbilisi, the 'Rike Vases' — a prominent and controversial landmark built during Mikheil Saakashvili's era — are being demolished in the city's Rike Park, despite the project's long-standing closure and lack of public use.
Consensus
- The 'Rike Vases' are being demolished in Tbilisi's Rike Park.
- The project was built during the presidency of Mikheil Saakashvili.
- The complex was intended to be a major cultural and exhibition venue.
- The structure has remained largely closed for nearly 15 years.
- The site is now fenced off, and workers are removing facade panels.
- The architectural firm Studio Fuksas expressed surprise at the demolition without prior consultation.
Points of divergence
- Studio Fuksas stated they had repeatedly offered to cooperate but were not contacted by state bodies or other interested parties. — tvrain
- The structure has become a symbol of unrealized ambitions and a reflection of how political and commercial interests have reshaped Tbilisi's urban landscape. — tg_bbcrussian
Coverage (3 sources)
- In Tbilisi, they are demolishing the symbol of the Saakashvili era — the "Rike kувшины" — Дождь
- In Tbilisi, they are demolishing the symbol of the Saakashvili era — the 'Rike kvechis' — Дождь (Telegram)
- Battle for the Past. In Tbilisi, they are demolishing a symbol of the Saakashvili era — BBC News Русская служба