Ushguli, pictured below, is the name of a collection of ancient villages located in the mountainous Svaneti region of northwest Georgia (the country in Europe). Ushguli is recognised as the highest settlement in Europe, set at altitudes between 2,086 and 2,200 metres above sea level. Symbolically, this highest settlement is guarded by Mt. Shkhara, the highest point in Georgia. Its snow-capped glacier, reaching up to 5,200 metres, is a poignant background to the local towers and chapels.

Ushguli consists of four communities (Zhibiani, Chvibiani, Chazhashi and Murqmeli), all of which have preserved Svan towers. Due to the abundance of these towers, the villages are often referred to as an ‘open-air museum’.

Usghuli and the surrounding mountainous Svaneti province are a must-see destination in Georgia. The region is made rich by its hospitable people, indigenous traditions and stunning landscapes. Svaneti also has its own remarkable cuisine, distinct from the other parts of Georgia. The Svans even have their own language and greet one another with the phrase Khoshalader (meaning ‘may victory be with you’).

Ushguli has a famous Lamaria Chapel and historical museum that, together with the Svan towers, shed light on the local lifestyle. During local festivities, one can also witness traditional songs and dances as part of the celebrations. While listening, one can feel the influence of the strict nature of a hard mountainous lifestyle.

Proximity to the glaciers and a location at high altitudes makes Ushguli even more remote during winter months. Snow comes in October and melts in May. The local population therefore begins preparing for the long winters early, usually in August. Starting from June, though, locals wait to welcome tourists into their guesthouses in order to host them in the best way possible and help them to understand the local culture, traditions and cuisine.

Tags:

This entry was posted on Sunday, May 16th, 2010 at 9:00 pm and is filed under the following categories: