Svaneti - Hidden Corner of Georgia Destination of the Month! 20.07.2005 For the information on Guaranteed Departure to Svaneti click here... Travelling through the high mountain villages of Svaneti, the Spirit of knighthood, preserved here for centuries comes alive. Deep river gorges, narrow paths, house - towers, tiny, swift Caucasian horses, wild horsemen, folk bards, mystical rituals, cults of fire and spirits and ancient fairy-tales here harmoniously blend. Many travellers have described this outstanding part of the world. This land is unique in terms of beautiful landscapes, remote traditions, superb architecture of Svan house-towers, churches richly decorated with mural painting and hospital people. It was here that most of Colchis gold was obtained. For centuries the Svan ethnic group evolved there, cut off from the outside world by the high and inaccessible mountains, their culture preserved almost intact. In earlier centuries, Svaneti was a recognized part of the Kingdom of Colchis. Sights to visit: Ushguli - This architecturally unique Middle Age village-fortification situated at 2200 m above see level is the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe. Surrounded by the giant snow capped mountains, it lies below mount Shkhara (5200), one of the highest, and most beautiful on the Georgian part of the Caucasus range. Ushguli is a complex of watch-towers, dwelling-houses and ancient one-nave basilicas with impressive mural paintings. There is a belief that the ruins of Queen Tamar's fortress may be a secret burial place of this glorious queen so much beloved and venerated by Georgians. The churches of Svaneti are mainly single-nave basilicas of the 8th-9th-14th cc., built with stone, without facade ornamentation. The interiors are uniquely unmolested for Georgia and usually richly decorated with frescos painted by artists Michael Maglakeli and Tevdore ("King's artist"). The frescos are mainly 10th-12th cc; the main churches are Kvirike and Ivlita, Ipari, Nakipari, Lenjeri, Latali, Tangili. Towers The towers are made of granite and slate, often with wooden roofs. They survived during the earthquakes, avalanche and landslide. Today there are 258 towers spread in 16 Svan villages. Defensive towers mostly five storey buildings and house towers 2-4 storey, with the thick walls, small windows, and wooden step ladders still protect people from strict climate and natural disasters. A legend has it that King Tamar outlined plan of first Svan tower herself. Mountains: Mount Ushba The "sovereign" of Svaneti, mount Ushba (4690m) holds mystical qualities for the Svan people, who sets foot on its summit wins the immediate and enduring respect of the locals. Mount Shkhara The highest peak of Georgia (5 068) overlooking ushguly with its dramatic beauty. Other attractions: - Lot of endemic plants. Rare representatives of local fauna. - The unique production of cheesed icons; - High peaks of Caucasus mountain range; - Exquisite cuisine; - Local legends and semi-pagan rituals. Every guest here is treated to hot "khatshapuri", a special dish called "Kubdari" (bresd with meet stuffing) and "Rakhi" a local sort of Vodka. by Keti Aspindzelashvili Tour Coordinator Caucasus Travel Ltd For the information on Guaranteed Departure to Svaneti click here... <<Previous Back to STORY archive Next>>