Exploring the Forgotten Elegance of Serebryakov’s Villa and the Hidden Church in Batumi

My lovely wife and I are always looking for new places to explore and drag our daughter to. Just a short distance from the bustling city center of Batumi lies a hidden gem steeped in mystery, history, and charm. WE found it while looking at places to go on Google Maps. This place is known as Serebryakov’s Villa. It is located north of the Batumi train station. If you’re a fan of nature, old architecture, and quiet spots with a story, this is a place you’ll want to explore.

Getting There

Reaching the villa is surprisingly simple. From the center of Batumi, hop on Bus #1 or #10 and get off about 3 stops after the Batumi Central Train Station. From there, it’s about a 10–15 minute uphill walk along a quiet road surrounded by trees, old houses, and the kind of quiet that makes you feel like you’ve left the city behind. That's exactly what we were looking for, and this place did not disappoint.

This short journey rewards you with a peaceful escape and a taste of forgotten grandeur.

The Story Behind Serebryakov’s Villa

The villa is named after Admiral Grigory Serebryakov, a Russian naval officer who played a key role in the development of the Black Sea coastline during the Russian Empire’s expansion. The building was once a summer retreat, believed to be linked to his family or the Russian nobility of the late 19th or early 20th century.

Although now partially in ruins and overtaken by nature, the architecture still whispers of old-world elegance. Ivy-covered balconies, arched windows, and crumbling stone steps tell a story of the grandeur that once was. It is boarded up, so you can't go inside, but the old overgrown gardens and outside architecture really are charming. 

It's not an official tourist site, so you may be exploring it alone, but that only adds to the magic.  When we went, we didn't see anyone else. Many locals don't even know it's there, making it one of Batumi's best-kept secrets.

The Nearby Church on the Hill

This was a surprise, as we did not see it on the map. Just a few minutes further uphill from the villa, tucked away among the trees, is a beautiful Russian Orthodox church. The church, modest in size but rich in atmosphere and beauty, stands as a quiet sentinel over the city below. The interior is usually closed, but even from the outside, it's a deeply serene place to reflect or take in the view. It was a lovely and photogenic type of place to get some pictures. 

From this vantage point, you get incredible views of Batumi’s skyline, the Black Sea, and the surrounding mountains. At sunset, it’s particularly breathtaking.

Why Visit?

This short trip is perfect for:

• Nature lovers – The walk is lined with greenery and silence.

• History buffs – The villa and church are remnants of a lost era.

• Urban explorers – The decay and beauty offer a photographer’s dream.

• Anyone looking for a quiet escape – It’s peaceful, little-visited, and not commercialized.

If you’re staying in Batumi and want something unique that combines history, mystery, and a bit of adventure, don’t miss this mini-excursion. Bring a friend, a camera, and some curiosity, and you’ll come back with memories and maybe a story or two of your own.