The Abkhaz regarded the forest as an animate creature. It was particularly revered by shepherds who would exclaim upon driving their herds into the forest: “O, Forest, give us the warmth of your eyes!” No special sacrifices were offered to the spirit of the forest, however, the shepherds used to observe one singular ritual related to the forest cult.

Did you know that there is an exquisite little country located just ten kilometers from Sochi or Zugdidi?

Since we started to explore the Caucasus, we’ve visited almost every corner of each country. Of course, we were also interested in the most remote and less popular places, where we sometimes came face to face with restrictions. Be it a region affected by war or just an area with closed borders, you usually have to have special permits from local authorities to get in...

To get an Abkhazian visa is a slightly long process that has to be started at least 2 weeks in advance of your journey. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned entry to Abkhazia...