A never-opened futuristic complex is being demolished with 25 million euros of public money poured into it.

The government of Georgia has approved the demolition of a never-opened futuristic cultural complex in its capital, Tbilisi, which was built using 25 million euros of public funds. The decision has reignited a long-standing debate over one of the city’s most controversial landmarks. The structure, designed by Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas, consists of two silver-colored steel and glass tubes connected by a supporting wall, forming a unique architectural form. Located along the banks of the Kura River within the Rike Park, the complex was intended to serve as a multifunctional space featuring a concert hall with 566 seats, exhibition spaces, technical rooms, storage areas, and a theater. Its design, described as resembling a periscope, offers panoramic views of the river and the historic core of Old Tbilisi. Construction of the complex began under former President Mikheil Saakashvili, who was later imprisoned after losing power to the ruling party, Georgian Dream, in 2012. Following his ousting, the project stalled, leaving the interior unfinished. Over the years, the building changed hands multiple times, was put up for auction, and became the subject of numerous proposals for repurposing. However, none of these efforts led to a viable continuation of the project. In 2022, control of the site was transferred to a company owned by entrepreneur David Khidashelidze, who later sold the property to a new owner. The current owner, Rike Dome, acquired the complex in June 2025. In late 2025, the accidental death of a teenager near the abandoned structure once again brought public attention to its deteriorating condition. In response, the mayor announced plans to demolish the building. The landowner, who intends to construct a hotel on the site, must complete the demolition by December 25. This deadline adds urgency to the process, as the demolition is expected to be finalized by year's end. Former President Saakashvili has strongly opposed the plan, calling the complex a “world-class architectural and cultural masterpiece” and accusing authorities of destroying a public asset. According to the Georgian fact-checking organization FactCheck.ge, approximately 25 million euros have already been spent on the project through public funding. The decision has also drawn criticism from the architect himself, who called the plan “madness.” Fuksas, aged 82, stated during a radio interview with Radio Free Europe that he had contacted Georgian authorities in May to discuss potential alternative uses for the complex but received no response. The demolition has sparked accusations of political retaliation against the opposition. Critics claim that the ruling party, Georgian Dream, seeks to erase symbols associated with its political rivals. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between different factions within Georgian politics, particularly regarding the legacy of past leaders and the direction of urban development. As the demolition proceeds, the fate of this ambitious yet unfinished structure continues to reflect broader debates about public investment, architectural vision, and political accountability.