Skatepark & Parkourground Mziuri A Tale of Resilience and Recreation

Situated within Mziuri Park, one of Tbilisi’s central green spaces, the Skatepark and Parkourground Mziuri stand as vibrant hubs of recreation and community engagement. Originally conceived as “Mziuri – the city of children” in the 1980s, this theme park, inspired by the tales of Georgian writer Nodar Dumbadze, has evolved into a cherished gathering place for the city’s youth. Serving as a passage between neighboring districts, it fosters bonds, friendships, and growth, earning the moniker of a “ghetto Disneyland” on post-soviet soil.

A Story of Renewal

The park’s rich history is intertwined with the flow of the river Vere, which once served as a recreational centerpiece. However, the construction of a highway in 2010 altered the landscape, diverting the river and disrupting its natural course. The subsequent flood in 2013 unleashed chaos, liberating zoo animals and transforming the urban landscape into an unexpected jungle. Yet, amidst the chaos, a sense of community emerged as local youth rallied to restore and rejuvenate the park, forging stronger bonds and a shared sense of ownership.

Flowing Through Concrete

Today, the Skatepark and Parkourground breathe new life into the once-dry riverbed. The rhythmic flow of skaters and tracers mirrors the vitality of water, infusing the canal with a new kind of energy—free and untamed. Since its opening, the park has become a bustling hub, attracting enthusiasts and spectators alike, drawn by the allure of its concrete terrain.

A Nexus of Culture and Connection

Adjacent to each other, the parkour ground and skatepark serve as platforms for cultural exchange and interaction. The parkour ground, symbolizing the city’s spirit, features scaled-down obstacles resembling miniature buildings, embodying a metaphor of perpetual movement. Meanwhile, the skatepark seamlessly transitions from street plaza to halfpipe, mirroring the contours of the original canal. Observers gather at vantage points like the bridge and amphitheater, immersing themselves in the vibrant skate and parkour culture, their spirits lifted by the unexpected joy that permeates the air.

In essence, the Skatepark & Parkourground Mziuri transcend their role as mere recreational facilities, embodying the resilience and spirit of a community united in pursuit of recreation, connection, and belonging.