Abkhazia is a Christian country, but traditional religion is no less important here. Abkhazians from ancient times believe that their land is guarded by sanctuaries-anykhs. There are seven of them, they are located on seven holy peaks. Seven stars on the Abkhazian flag are in honor of these anykhs.

A couple of months back we discovered a wine region in the westmost corner of the Caucasus.

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.