Off the Beaten Path- Ivan Dolnikov- Abkhazia Wanderings
Abkhazia is also famous for its marvelous mountain lakes and the most popular one is Lake Ritsa, located in the Bzyb’ basin. For those who choose to spend their holidays in Abkhazia, it is also worth visiting other lakes such as the Blue, Inkiti and Amtkel lakes as well. 55 % of Abkhazian territory is covered by lush vegetation, which is subtropical on the seashore and temperate on the slopes and in the gorges, with various tree species such as oak, hornbeam, beach and some conifers growing in these habitats.
About 300, 000 people inhabit the territory. The population is comprised of more than 25 ethnic groups with Abkhaz making up the ethnic majority. Most inhabitants of Abkhazia are Christians who comprise around 60 % of the population. The first Christian churches in Abkhazia were built in the IV-V centuries inside Roman-Byzantine fortifications( Pitiunt, Sebastopolis.) In the middle of the VI century, cathedrals started appearing outside of these fortifications( Alakhadzi, Dranda, Lykhny) and gradually the majority of residents began converting to Christianity. The second largest religion by number of adherents is Islam who make up 16 % of the population while smaller denominations of Catholics as well as the adherents of The Abkhaz Native Religion can also be found in this region.
Spread along the coast of the Black Sea, Abkhazia demonstrates to the sea its overwhelming treasures: picturesque mountains covered by dense vegetation, medieval castles, fortresses and other unique historical sites. Whichever city you visit, in every place you will have the opportunity to visit museums or stroll in amazing parks, squares and gardens. Abkhazia is a relatively small country; however, even a month is not enough for seeing all its sights. Visiting every castle, fortress, colonnade or cave is a separate small journey. Therefore, it is worth planning your trip to Abkhazia well in advance before setting off. Otherwise, you risk losing your head over the abundance of incredible places that is possible to see.
The Travellist | Issue 3 | July 2015 p28