Ajara has long taken an active part in Georgia’s material development. Proof to this are the remains of fortresses, shrines and arched bridges preserved in the territory. Since Ajara is a coastal region it has always required strengthening or defensive constructions. Included among these are the Gonio-Apsaros fortress, and the Petra and Khikhani fortresses. On the eastern entrance to Batumi, on the left bank of the Korolistskali River stands the Batumi or Queen Tamar fortress. Archaeological excavations are conducted there annually. There are many late medieval fortresses as well, including Gulebi, Zendidi, Begoshvilebi, Kaviani, and Chkhutuneti. During the Ottoman rule many churches were destroyed, and the Skhalta Monastery in Khulo is distinguished among other preserved ones.

After becoming a seaport, Batumi saw a large building boom, including the Virgin Nativity Cathedral (the former Catholic church), the post office, the seaside boulevard colonnade, the house of architecture, and the summer theatre. European architects also participated in city planning. The old city is distinguished by two and three-storey houses differing from one another in architectural style thus making the whole appearance of the city interesting. The same tendency can be seen in the architecture of modern Batumi. Samples of modern architecture, including the Alphabet Tower, Hall of Justice, the Radisson Blu Hotel and new apartment buildings as well as various pieces of sculpture are distinguished by their originality and modernity.