Amid the snow-covered landscapes of Borjomi, where frost clings to towering pines and the world seems frozen in time, one force of nature refuses to be tamed—the Borjomula River. Its name, derived from the town of Borjomi, echoes an ancient past. Some believe "Borjomi" comes from the Persian word burj (fortress) and omi (war), hinting at battles once fought in this land. Others trace it to the Georgian word borji (roots), evoking the dense forests that once covered these valleys.
Borjomula, with its restless, foaming waters, remains a symbol of resilience. Unlike the park around it, buried beneath a thick winter quilt, the river flows fiercely, cascading over rocks, defying the frost that silences everything else. Snowflakes fall into its rushing currents, vanishing instantly, as if the river swallows winter’s touch before it can take hold.
Even in the coldest months, Borjomula never freezes. It carves through the mountains, carrying with it the whispers of history, the pulse of nature, and the essence of Borjomi itself—a land of legend, where even the rivers refuse to sleep.
In winter, a walk through Borjomi becomes a journey into a snow-covered fairytale. It begins at the historic “Firuza” house — the former residence of the Persian ambassador Mirza Riza Khan, built in 1892. This striking building, blending Persian and Georgian architectural styles, marks the elegant entrance to Borjomi Central Park.
The park itself was established in 1850 and has since become a beloved retreat for locals and visitors alike. In winter, its paths along the icy Borjomula River are lined with ancient fir trees, their branches heavy with snow, creating a serene, almost magical landscape.
Deeper into the park stands the statue of Prometheus, installed in 2007. The sculpture, depicting the mythical titan who gave fire to humanity, symbolizes Georgia’s aspirations for freedom and knowledge. Nearby, an open warm mineral spring flows year-round — a source long renowned for its therapeutic properties. In the cold season, a sip of this naturally warm, mineral-rich water offers a soothing contrast to the winter air, aiding digestion and restoring inner balance.
Further along, visitors will find the Rococo Pavilion — an ornate cast-iron structure brought from Belgium and installed in the late 19th century. Covered in frost, surrounded by snow, it becomes a poetic symbol of the era when Borjomi was rising as a health resort of imperial grandeur. In winter, this corner of the park becomes not just a place of beauty, but a living memory of history, healing, and timeless tranquility.
