9 April Park

Orientation

9 April Park occupies the upper part of the former Alexander’s Garden, directly beside Rustaveli Avenue in central Tbilisi. It is a compact, tree-filled public space rather than a destination requiring a long visit; allow 20 to 40 minutes for a walk, a pause, and the surrounding landmarks.

The garden was opened in 1865 as Tbilisi’s first public garden, designed by the Swedish architect Otto Simonson. A former tram line divided Alexander’s Garden into two sections: the lower part is Giorgi Leonidze Garden, while this upper section became 9 April Park.

Why the date matters

The park’s name refers to 9 April 1989, when Soviet troops violently dispersed a peaceful pro-independence demonstration on Rustaveli Avenue, near the Parliament building. Twenty-one people died and hundreds were injured. Many people fled into nearby Kashveti Church and the garden.

Two years later, on 9 April 1991, Georgia restored its state independence. The date remains one of the country’s principal days of remembrance. Treat memorial elements and any flowers or candles with appropriate restraint.

What to see

Follow the shaded paths through mature trees and look for the garden’s fountains and small monuments. The park is more useful as a historical pause on a central-city walk than as a standalone sight.

Nearby stops make the location particularly efficient:

• Georgian National Gallery: in the former Russian Military History Museum building within the old garden area.
• Kashveti Church: close to the park and associated with the events of 1989.
• Rustaveli Avenue: Tbilisi’s main cultural and civic boulevard, with the Parliament area immediately nearby.
• Giorgi Leonidze Garden: the other section of the old Alexander’s Garden, reached downhill.

Getting there and visiting

Approach on foot from Freedom Square along Rustaveli Avenue, or from the National Gallery and Parliament side of the boulevard. The park’s paths provide a useful pedestrian link between Rustaveli and the streets behind it.

Access: This is an open public garden; there is no admission process. Visit in daylight if you want to read memorial details and combine it with the gallery or church. On 9 April, expect commemorative activity around Rustaveli Avenue and allow extra time for crowds or traffic controls.