Svaneti

Description

Svaneti, one of the most ancient and historical provinces of Georgia, is located on the southern slopes of the Caucasus mountain range, on the territory running between the Enguri and Tskhenistskali Rivers. Surrounded by the gigantic, snow-capped peaks of the high Caucasus, Svaneti is one of the most remarkable and picturesque regions of Georgia, if not the whole world.

Svanetian towers, some with foundations dating back a millennium, were used to protect families in time of war, and it is said that some still house ancient treasures, brought up to Svaneti hundreds of years ago to protect them from invaders. Indeed, Svaneti’s museums boast world class collections of icons, religious manuscripts and gold and silver jewelry.

For those who like walking Svaneti is sheer paradise with its remote villages of Chuberi, Etseri, Becho, Adishi, Ipraali and others.

Ushguli is under protection of UNESCO. A historical settlement located in the very East of Svaneti, Ushguli is one of the highest permanent settlements in Europe (2,000-2,200 metres above sea level). The Church of Lamaria is located on one of the highest points in Ushguli and it is also the home to the remnants of one of the most ancient fortresses of Svaneti with 37 towers, dating back to the reign of Queen Tamar.