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