Svaneti is located in western Georgia, in the highest mountainous historical-geographic area. This beautiful part of Georgia strongly expressed individualism. Svaneti is a country with a culture that is characterized by its diversity. Especially for travel lovers, you will be very pleased and excited to visit this beautiful part of Georgia. Here you will see beautiful nature, interesting frescoes, and ancient towers, you will get to know the customs of Svaneti, which is its characteristic sign. A trip to Svaneti will leave you with unforgettable emotions, which is why you should definitely visit this beautiful country.
History of Svaneti
The earliest reference to the Swans is found in the Greek and Roman historians Strabo (old AD 64/63 AD, AD 23/24 AD) and Pliny (AD 23/24 AD). In earlier centuries, Svaneti was a constituent part of the Kingdom of Kolkheti, and then the Kingdom of Egris. According to the old calendar, in the first half of the 3rd century, during the reign of King Farnavaz, Svaneti was part of the Kingdom of Kartli. In the 4th century, Svaneti became an ally of the Kingdom of Lazeti and often participated in campaigns to protect the kingdom’s borders. Svaneti was periodically independent, and had its own main and tribal councils. During the reign of Vakhtang Gorgasli, Svaneti was part of Kartli, but it became independent again at the beginning of the 6th century. Christianity probably spread in Svaneti, like the kingdom of Lazika, in 523-530.
Trip in Svaneti
Svaneti with towering villages harmoniously combined with huge mountains and rocks, with important examples of Georgian architecture, engraving and painting, centuries-old culture, It makes an indelible impression on the viewer. The nature of Svaneti is undoubtedly beautiful with alpine meadows, rocks, peaks, waterfalls, and beautiful alpine lakes. The area is equally attractive to people interested in culture, mountaineers, skiers, and simply lovers of wandering mountain relaxation, and sweeping views. If you want to travel to Svaneti, There is a Tour from Tbilisi to Svaneti that will make your trip from tripify even more interesting and comfortable.
Svaneti culture
Svaneti is a region with an ancient and interesting culture. Here, as in the mountainous regions of Georgia in general, pagan and Christian rituals and customs merge and take on a new, independent form. Centuries-old public holidays have been preserved in Svaneti to this day. Svan folklore along with dance, highly artistic poetry, and song is noteworthy. Svan Lile is known, is dedicated to the sun deity. In Svaneti, there are many myths about goddesses, dragons, and magical creatures, you will hear unbelievable hunting stories. An integral accessory of the Svan outfit is the Svan hat, which is made of felt. The twisted thread stretched over it creates the image of a cross on the upper part. Svan cuisine is special and delicious. In ancient times, the Svan table was considered a symbol of closeness and respect. Reconciliation of vows took place at the table, and rural and secular affairs were settled. Outstanding dishes are kubdar and chvishtar.
Mestia – an outstanding municipality of Svaneti
Mestia is a municipality located in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti area in western Georgia. It, like Svaneti as a whole, has an ancient history. Mestia is distinguished by its amazing, beautiful nature and abundance of cultural monuments. The beauty of Svaneti, Ushba Peak, Shkhara, the highest peak of Georgia, waterfalls flowing from raised rocks, and sky-blue alpine lakes are memorable and unforgettable. Svan towers, unique temples, and various household and religious samples are really very interesting, individual, and with the greatest historical and cultural value part of the rich and diverse Georgian culture. Mestia is a great place for mountain vacation lovers both in summer and winter. Hatsvali and Tetnuld mountain ski resorts operate here. Trip in Mestia is associated with special emotions. There is a Tour from Tbilisi to Mestia that will make your trip even more comfortable and interesting.
