Adjara Region

All regions of Georgia

Where is Adjara?

Location

Adjara, officially the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, is situated in the south-western part of the country and extends along the Black Sea coast. It borders the region of Guria to the north, Samtskhe-Javakheti to the east and Turkey to the south. The administrative centre and capital of Adjara is Batumi. The municipalities of Batumi, Khulo, Qeda, Qobuleti, Shuakhevi and Chelvashauri belong to the Autonomous Republic of Adjara.

Geography

The region of Adjara is mountainous. It is part of the Lesser Caucasus. The highest mountain in the region is Mount Kentschauli. It is located in the Arsiani Mountains and is almost 3,000 metres high. The most important river in the region is the Adjaristskali, with its tributaries Kavre, Chokhnistskali, Agaristskali, Chvanistskali, Chirukhistskali and others. Other rivers such as Kintrishi, Chakvistskali and Korolistskali flow directly into the Black Sea.

The mountains of Adjara are home to numerous small but beautiful mountain lakes that are very popular with visitors. Well-known lakes such as the ‘Green Lake’ (Mtsvane Tba), the ‘Karagoli Lake’ and the ‘Tbikeli Lake’ attract many visitors.

Climate

The climate of Adjara is humid subtropical. The Kobuleti-Chakvi ridge, which divides the region into mountainous and coastal areas, plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s microclimate. In the mountains, more snow falls and the climate is less humid. Average summer temperatures are 22-24°C on the coast and 17-21°C in the mountains. In winter, temperatures are 4-6°C at lower altitudes and 3-2°C at higher altitudes.

History and culture

The most important historical phases

Ajaria is one of the oldest regions in Georgia. Archaeological finds prove that the area was already settled in the Stone Age. Life has never stopped here.

It was later part of the Colchis Empire, which existed in Western Georgia and along the Black Sea coast in the first millennium. As a separate region and geographical area, Adjara first appears in 11th-century Georgian manuscripts, particularly in the account of Leonti Mroveli about the division of Georgia into different provinces by King Pharnavaz (4th-3rd century BC).

During the first centuries AD, the area was under Roman control. The Romans built some fortresses such as Gonio and Petra, which served as military bases. The ruins of these fortresses still remain today and attract many visitors.

The history of Christianity is deeply rooted in this region. According to some historians, Christianity was proclaimed in Georgia as early as the first century by Andrew, who entered the country through this region.

The late Middle Ages presented the region with challenges. Due to conflicts with the neighbouring region of Guria, it became part of that region. This was followed by the Ottoman invasion and conquest, which lasted more than two centuries.

As a result of Ottoman rule, the population of Adjara converted to Islam but retained their Georgian nationality, language, family names and, above all, their Georgian identity.

After the Russian-Ottoman War, Adjara became part of the Russian Empire in 1878 as a result of a ceasefire agreement. When it joined the Soviet Union in 1921, Adjara was declared an autonomous socialist soviet republic and retained the political status of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara after the restoration of Georgian independence.

Culture

The culture of the Adjara region is characterised by its unique diversity. Even the traditional clothing is different from other regions of Georgia. The men wore tight-fitting clothing with local knitwear, velvet stockings, special shoes called kalamani and a distinctive hat called kabbalah.

The Adjarian clothing was also characterised by the weapons they carried: rifle, belt, silver jewellery, dagger and a drinking bottle called Matara. Ottoman influences shaped the traditional costume with ornaments and elements.

The folklore of Adjara is also unique, especially with dances such as ‘Khorumi’, a combative dance, and ‘Gandagana’, an energetic and fascinating dance that best express the identity and character of this region. The music, with the indigenous wind instrument Chiponi and traditional drums, also characterises the culture.

The architecture of Adjara includes old arched bridges from the 12th and 13th centuries that are still in use and admired by many visitors. In addition to stone bridges, wooden bridges are also characteristic. A remarkable example of wooden architecture is a bridge from the 17th century in the village of Khablashvili, which was built without nails and is still in good condition today.

Highlights of Adjarian architecture are the wooden mosques from the 19th century, such as those in the villages of Kvirike or Behgela, which are decorated with magnificent ornaments. The colourful paintings in the mosques are another part of Adjarian culture.

The mostly two-storey residential houses are built of wood and the villages situated on the slopes attract many photographers and nature lovers.

Cuisine and wine

The Adjarian cuisine is rich and tasty, with dairy products such as butter, curd and cheese being used frequently. Local dishes such as Adjarian Khachapuri, Borano, Fkhallobio, Achma, Sinori and Kuruti are particularly popular.

A speciality is the delicious Ajarian baqlava dessert. Viticulture is one of the oldest traditions in Ajaria, with 80 local grape varieties. Tsolikauri, Chkhaveri and Satsuri are widely grown varieties. In addition to viticulture, tobacco growing and beekeeping are also well represented in the region.

Travel tips for Adjara

Sights and activities

Cultural site

• Gonio – also known as Absaros, is located near the Turkish border and impresses with its typical Roman architecture. It was under Roman control between the 1st and 3rd centuries, but the fortress existed before that. According to legend, the Colchian king Aiet buried his son, who was killed by the Argonauts, here. The remains of the fortress show structures from the 1st to 3rd centuries, such as baths, barracks, and sewer and water supply systems.
• The medieval fortress of Chichani is a popular excursion destination in the mountains of the region and impresses with its breathtaking location and views. Among other ruins, there are also the remains of a wine cellar to discover. The fortress is located at an altitude of 2,200 metres, and the last kilometre has to be covered on foot. It is also of interest to those who appreciate not only cultural monuments but also picturesque landscapes.
• The Machunzeti bridge, Machunzeti village, is a national cultural heritage site. It is 24 m long, 2 m wide and located about 50 m from the main road.
• The wooden bridge in the village of Chablashvilebi, built in the 18th century, is particularly interesting because it was built without nails and is still in use today.
• The mosque in the village of Beghleti is known for its paintings, most of which were created at the beginning of the 20th century. The present building looks slightly different than it did at the end of the 19th century.
• In the municipality of Kobuleti, in the village of Kvirike, there is a mosque from the 1880s that was built by a Lase (a Georgian tribe that now lives in Turkey). It is known for its unique plant and flower ornaments.

Batumi – capital of Adjara

Batumi on the Black Sea is the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara and impresses with its coastal location and architectural diversity. In recent years, a lot has been invested in the city, and numerous casinos and hotels characterise the cityscape. Sights include the fascinating pair of sculptures Ali and Nino, the imposing Alphabet Tower and the picturesque boulevard.

Batumi is an excellent choice for beach holidaymakers. The city not only offers a picturesque location on the Black Sea, but also well-developed beaches that attract those seeking relaxation. Batumi attracts visitors from various neighbouring countries who appreciate the unique blend of culture and modern flair.

Natural monuments

• The Matskheta National Park, a pearl of the Adjara region, is located in the municipality of Khevatchauri and offers a total of three different routes. It is ideal for hiking and horse riding.
• The Mtirala National Park, about 25 km from Batumi, is also ideal for hiking and horse riding. The national park also offers zip lining and a high ropes course.
• The Machunzeti waterfall, which is about 50 metres high, is located in the village of Machunzeti, about an hour’s drive from Batumi. It is one of Georgia’s most popular attractions and attracts numerous visitors.
• The Petrified Forest on the eastern side of the Goderdzi Pass fascinates visitors. Covering an area of 365 hectares and at an altitude of 1600 to 2100 metres, this petrified forest, which is covered by a volcano, displays flora from prehistoric times.
• Goderdzi is a winter sports resort on the Goderdzi Pass, which is over 2000 metres above sea level. It is not only suitable for winter activities such as skiing, but also for summer activities such as hiking, horse riding and cycling. The area is particularly popular with freeriders, but also with traditional skiers.
• The Green Lake on the Goderdzi Pass is one of the highlights of the Ajarian Highlands. The lake is over 2000 metres high and can also be reached by car.
• The Shuamta Lakes in the Ajarian Highlands are located at an altitude of 2150 m in the summer village of Shuamta and can be reached by 4×4. The area is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and photography.

Resorts

In the region of Adjara, spa resorts such as Batumi and Kobuleti are well known. Below are brief descriptions of these resorts:

• The capital of Adjara, Batumi, on the Black Sea, is known as a popular summer resort not only in Georgia but throughout the Caucasus region. Over the last two decades, the city has changed a lot. Modern hotels and high-rise buildings used as apartments testify to the large number of visitors, both locals and guests from countries such as Armenia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine and Russia. Batumi offers a lively scene with nightclubs, casinos and other entertainment options, while bathing in the Black Sea is the main attraction for visitors.
• Kobuleti is another seaside resort near Batumi, about 20 minutes away. This place is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, away from the many nightclubs, casinos, etc. It is a popular place for families with young children.
• The resort of Beschumi is located in the municipality of Khulo at an altitude of 1850-1900 metres above sea level, about 30 kilometres from Khulo. The air is exceptionally fresh. The area is rich in coniferous forests and rivers. Summers in Beschumi are cool, which makes the place particularly pleasant. Chronic respiratory diseases, especially in children, are treated here.

Activities

Numerous attractions offer the opportunity to enjoy various activities in the Ajara region. Here are some tips for those who will visit Ajara:

• Bathing in the Black Sea is the most popular activity in Ajara. There are two summer resorts in the region – Batumi and Kobuleti. The water temperature here is about 25 degrees and the season starts in early June and lasts until mid-October.
• Cultural excursions – There are several museums and galleries in Ajaria that are worth visiting. The Nobel Museum and the Archaeological Museum in Batumi are well worth a visit. The Catholic Cathedral in the old town of Batumi is also worth a visit.
• Hiking is possible in Adjara. In the region’s national park, guests can choose between various tours of different difficulty levels and lengths. Hiking in the villages and mountains in the highlands of Adjara is also an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
• Horseback riding – many of the hiking trails are also suitable for horseback riding.
• Cycling – for those who love adventurous bike tours and have experience with mountain bikes, the region offers many opportunities. Bike tours through the holiday resorts or national parks are an unforgettable experience.
• Photo tours are very popular in the region. The summer settlements and the everyday life of the locals are particularly interesting. The landscape of the Adjara highlands is a paradise for landscape photographers.
• Birdwatching has become a very important tourist activity in the region in recent years. In the village of Sachalvascho, there is a special centre and infrastructure for birdwatchers, where many enthusiasts gather every year to watch the migratory birds.

Tours in Adjara

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