Attractions of Abkhazia

Warm and welcoming Abkhazia—often called the “Land of the Soul”—nestled gracefully along the picturesque slopes of the Western Caucasus, is justly regarded as one of the region’s most naturally rich destinations. This land is a tapestry of contrasts: sandy beaches and turquoise seas melt seamlessly into alpine meadows, which in turn give way to primeval forests; crystalline lakes border vast cave systems stretching for kilometers, while powerful waterfalls plunge into deep gorges, as if sculpted by myth itself.

Each natural attraction in Abkhazia is more than just a landscape—it is an entire world imbued with the drama of rock, water, and time. Every site possesses its own unique energy, history, and character.

Situated at an elevation of 950 meters above sea level, Lake Ritsa is a true jewel of Abkhazia and its most iconic symbol. Surrounded by dense beech and spruce forests that cascade down the mountain slopes, Lake Ritsa seems crafted for inspiration. The water’s hue is dynamic—shifting seasonally and with weather conditions from amber-emerald to deep malachite, and at certain times of day, taking on cool topaz tones.

Swimming in Lake Ritsa is strictly prohibited—preservation of the ecosystem remains the top priority. However, visitors are welcomed to enjoy other experiences: a tranquil boat ride, a peaceful picnic along the shore, or simply prolonged contemplation of the panorama, where nature reveals itself as the greatest artist. Don’t forget to charge your device—this vantage point offers unforgettable photographic perspectives.

Plunging from a height of seventy meters, the Gegsky Waterfall reverberates through the Abkhazian landscape with a thunderous roar audible hundreds of meters before the viewer even catches sight of its full power. This raw, awe-inspiring natural spectacle has drawn not only nature enthusiasts but also filmmakers—this very site served as the stand-in for the Reichenbach Falls in the Soviet TV series The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.

If you’re wondering what to see in Abkhazia, the Gegsky Waterfall is a landmark where nature itself takes center stage. Its immersive sonic presence transforms the visit from a simple excursion into an unforgettable sensory experience—especially for travelers who seek authentic, emotionally resonant destinations.

Established back in 1930, Ritsa National Park is one of Abkhazia’s most significant natural sites—visiting it is essential for a complete experience of the region. Spanning nearly 40,000 hectares, the park comprises an entire world of pristine wilderness, home to dozens of waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, deep gorges, and vast tracts of evergreen forests preserved in their original state.

The park holds exceptional ecological value due to its rare flora and fauna species listed in the Red Book; their continued presence here is a testament to the area's high level of environmental conservation. For travelers seeking more than just beach relaxation and desiring immersive exploration of Abkhazia’s natural landscapes, Ritsa National Park offers a unique opportunity to discover untouched corners of the Caucasus—with maximum authenticity and minimal human impact.

A majestic gorge whose breathtaking panoramas frequently grace travel brochures and guidebooks on Abkhazia. This eight-kilometer-long cleft, carved between sheer cliffs, creates a powerful sense of scale and mystery—its walls draped in emerald moss, ivy, and dense ferns, giving the landscape an almost fairy-tale appearance.

An asphalted road runs the entire length of the canyon, allowing visitors to walk through it with ease from start to finish. Of particular interest are the Yupshar Gates—a narrow passage where the rock walls converge so tightly that only a slender strip of sky, no wider than 20 meters, remains visible above. Locals in Abkhazia call this place “The Stone Sack” due to its perpetual twilight, the feeling of enclosed space, and its unique acoustics: every spoken word echoes back three or four times, as if nature itself is repeating it to you.

For those seeking not just scenic views but the exhilarating feeling of conquest, Mount Mamdzishkha offers an ideal destination for active recreation in Abkhazia—delivering authentic experiences and a deep connection with nature. The ascent to the summit can be made in two ways: on foot along picturesque mountain trails or by off-road vehicle, making it accessible both to seasoned adventurers and travelers who prefer comfort.

Along the route, three observation platforms at elevations of 300, 900, and 1,460 meters offer progressively more expansive panoramas of Abkhazia. At the peak, known as the "Peak of the World," a breathtaking vista unfolds: endless ridges of the Caucasus, the emerald ribbon of the Black Sea, and the distant outlines of Gagra. Sunset here is more than a view—it’s an event. As the sun dips below the horizon, it bathes the cliffs in crimson and golden hues, while the pure mountain air fills the senses with lightness and profound silence.

One of the largest karst caves in Abkhazia lies hidden within the Iverian Mountain massif, just inland from the Black Sea coast. The entrance to the cave leads into an underground realm, where the journey itself becomes an adventure: visitors descend 183 meters along a narrow railway track—an engineering marvel carved directly into the rock.

At the bottom of this geological gallery unfolds a mesmerizing world, as if time had slowed down millions of years ago. Mysterious subterranean lakes, intricate stalactites and stalagmites glimmering in semi-darkness, and vast chambers bearing enigmatic names transform the cave into a natural theater. Here, every drop of water, over millennia, has sculpted its own masterpiece—a silent, sublime symphony of stone and time.

Located in the humid subtropical zone, Abkhazia benefits from a unique climate shaped by the convergence of sea and mountains—an environment perfectly suited for lush, vibrant vegetation. The most striking testament to this is the Sukhumi Botanical Garden, originally established in 1838 as a medicinal herb garden to serve the needs of the Russian military garrison.

Over time, these modest plots expanded into a sprawling complex of over 30 hectares. Despite historical upheavals, wars, and periods of neglect, the flora has been repeatedly revived, continuing to bloom and propagate.

Today, the garden stands as one of the region’s largest botanical institutions, home to more than 5,000 species of trees and shrubs. Among its treasures are a 250-year-old lime tree, whose branches have witnessed centuries of history, and a rare metasequoia grown from a single seed. Walking through the garden is a journey across continents and eras—each step accompanied by the fragrance of jasmine, the rustle of palm fronds, and the enduring warmth of a subtropical paradise.

The Khashupse Canyon is one of Abkhazia’s most immersive destinations, attracting not only photography enthusiasts but also avid fans of rugged hiking. The trail winds along the bottom of a kilometer-long gorge, beside the vivid azure stream of the Khashupse River, where crystal-clear, cool water flows between towering cliffs that rise sharply into the sky.

The canyon walls, draped in dense emerald moss and creeping ivy, evoke the feeling of a secluded, almost mystical realm. Natural formations—curved niches, arched openings, and narrow passages—create organic corridors where sunlight pierces only in scattered rays, diffusing through mist from the waterfall spray and the thick greenery.

The picturesque waterfall known as “The Women’s Tears” is a delicate natural masterpiece of Abkhazia, as if painted from a romantic landscape. Delicate streams of spring water cascade down a vertical cliff, 10 meters high and about 3 meters wide, splitting into fine threads that resemble tears tracing the face of the rock.

In stark contrast to the gentle, melancholic flow of the Women’s Tears lies “The Men’s Tears,” located approximately 20 kilometers away. This waterfall expresses not restrained sorrow, but raw power: a vigorous, churning torrent plunging 11 meters directly into a natural basin. From this pool, the overflowing water becomes a lively stream that soon merges with the Yuupshara River. Together, these two waterfalls share a unified energy and form an integral part of one Abkhazian journey—where nature tells a parable of emotion, expressed through the language of water.

Located in the scenic Psyrtsha Gorge near New Athos, the Grotto of Simon the Canaanite is revered as a sacred site linked to one of the Twelve Apostles. According to tradition, in 53–55 AD, this very cave served as the cell of Simon the Canaanite, a disciple of Jesus Christ, who came to preach Christianity in the Transcaucasus region.

The pilgrimage path begins at the spot where, as legend holds, the apostle was martyred by Roman legionaries. A trail winds through dense vegetation and rocky slopes, culminating in a steep ascent up a ladder of stone steps carved directly into the cliff face.

Today, the grotto remains a vital center of religious veneration and pilgrimage, blending the weight of historical memory with the profound grandeur of Abkhazia’s natural surroundings.

Stretching along the coast of the village of Tsandripsh is one of Abkhazia’s most extraordinary natural formations: a three-hundred-meter stretch of brilliant white limestone cliffs. At first glance, they resemble exposed marble strata, but in reality, these are ancient limestone formations, smoothed over thousands of years by the relentless motion of sea waves into a flawless, undulating texture.

On clear days, when sunlight strikes at a direct angle, the cliff surfaces become mirror-like. Reflecting both sky and sea, they create an almost surreal glow of luminous white, sharply contrasting with the deep azure of the water. The sight is not merely striking—it feels otherworldly.
Visitors come here not only for the breathtaking panoramas but also for a unique beach experience: according to local observation, it is precisely at these cliffs that sunburn develops most evenly and intensely—as if the reflected light amplifies the sun’s effect on the skin.

Situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level, 14 kilometers from Lake Ritsa, the “Auvadkhara” mineral spring lies in an ecologically pristine area of the Abkhazian mountains. Due to its remote location, the water remains exceptionally pure and rich in a natural complex of minerals, making it a valuable natural resource for drinking purposes.

Of particular interest is the nearby hydrogen sulfide waterfall, where natural carbonation occurs as water flows through the cascading formation. Local healers note the beneficial effects of these waters on metabolism, skin health, and respiratory system function.

Stretching within the Ritsa National Park in Abkhazia, this vast canyon lies between the Main Caucasus and Gagra mountain ranges, forming a dramatic natural corridor. Its distinctive shape results from the fracturing of limestone strata, creating a unique structure resembling a colossal stone sack.

At its depths, ancient forests have been preserved—home to dozens of tree and shrub species native to the subtropical zone. Amid these dense, nearly untouched woodlands, remnants of the Bzyb and Kaldakhwar fortresses still stand, silent witnesses to centuries of history.

Hidden among majestic mountains near Lake Ritsa, Lake Mzy in Abkhazia is a small yet extraordinary natural phenomenon. Its emerald waters contrast vividly with endless green slopes cascading down steep ridges, evoking the feeling of a secluded, world-renouncing kingdom.

The water temperature remains consistently cold—at around +4°C—even during the hottest months, making it one of the coldest lakes in Abkhazia. Reaching the lake requires effort: winding footpaths, no paved roads, and complete isolation from civilization. But for those who cherish authentic adventures and seek places where nature remains untouched, this expedition becomes more than a journey—it’s an unforgettable discovery.

One of Abkhazia’s most beautiful natural sites, Lake Inkit was once a small marsh, separated from the sea by a narrow isthmus. Over time, the action of sea waves and surf gradually filled the depression, forming a spacious body of water with a depth of about three meters.

Today, Lake Inkit is an ideal retreat from the bustle of daily life—a place to enjoy silence, peaceful fishing, and the gentle rhythm of nature. Along its shores, cozy pavilions and small hotels have been established, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The lake is especially enchanting for couples: here, nature and tranquility blend seamlessly into a single, harmonious whole.

The Pitsunda-Musser territory of Abkhazia has long been celebrated for its natural beauty, but it was only officially designated as a protected reserve in 1966. Shaped like a crescent, the reserve is divided into two distinct zones: the more compact Pitsunda sector, covering 350 hectares, and the expansive Musser area, spanning 2,260 hectares.

The reserve’s greatest pride is the Pitsunda pine—a relict species found nowhere else in the world except this region of Abkhazia. Easily recognizable by its unusually long needles, which hang in soft, flowing strands, the tree casts intricate, lace-like shadows beneath its canopy, creating an atmosphere of quiet, timeless elegance.

Abkhazia still preserves five former residences belonging to one of the most influential political figures of the 20th century. Each was meticulously constructed to suit his personal preferences and situated in the region’s most scenic and secluded corners.

The most renowned dacha rises amid a mountain massif near Lake Ritsa—far from urban bustle, at an elevation of over 900 meters above sea level. Surrounded by silence, pristine air, and the grandeur of Caucasus landscapes, it served as an ideal sanctuary for solitude and rest.

His favorite retreat, however, was the residence on the Kholodnaya River, nestled in the outskirts of Gagra. Thanks to its mild microclimate and dense forests, this became his permanent summer haven for many years.

For hunting and country excursions, a secluded estate was built deep within the Musser Nature Reserve—an area renowned for its rich wildlife and complete isolation from the outside world.
Another residence stands in New Athos, where up to 800 personnel simultaneously served the complex and ensured the leader’s security. Staff rotations occurred every three months to prevent leaks of sensitive information.

The fifth and final dacha, hidden among ancient trees at the heart of Sukhumi’s dendropark, remains closed to the public. It functions today as a classified state facility, reserved for high-ranking guests and maintained under strict confidentiality.

These residences are more than architectural ensembles—they are silent witnesses to history, where politics, power, and nature converged into a single, enduring space, leaving behind legends and an aura of inviolable seclusion.

The monastery was founded in 1874 by Greek monks—pilgrims from Mount Athos—who sought to revive spiritual life on this ancient Christian site at the foot of Iverian Mountain. For nearly fifty years, it flourished as a center of Orthodox worship and pilgrimage, until the early 1920s, when Soviet authorities closed it, converting its buildings into storage and utility facilities.

For decades, the sacred grounds lay abandoned. But in 1994, the monastery was officially returned to the Russian Orthodox Church, initiating a large-scale restoration: churches, cells, and the entire complex were meticulously rebuilt and landscaped.

Today, it is an active spiritual center, and its main church—the Cathedral of Saint Panteleimon—stands out not only for its profound religious significance but also for its refined architectural beauty.

A man-made waterfall in Abkhazia, located just a 20-minute walk from the center of New Athos, is a rare example of harmonious synergy between human craftsmanship and natural beauty. The waterfall was created on the Psyrtscha River by a dam constructed by the monks of the New Athos Monastery.

Originally, the structure served both practical and aesthetic purposes: as water cascaded over the stone barrier, it formed a picturesque cascade that became an integral part of the monastery’s scenic surroundings. At the same time, the dam provided irrigation for the monastery’s vegetable gardens and powered a watermill used for baking bread and grinding flour.

Today, this tranquil retreat draws visitors with its atmosphere of peace and spiritual serenity. The path to the waterfall winds through shaded alleys where the gentle murmur of water and birdsong create a meditative ambiance—perfectly complementing a visit to the monastery and its cave temples.

A modernist-style castle erected in 1902 in the picturesque Zhokwar Gorge, on the slope of the Gagra mountain Signalka, stands as one of the most iconic architectural landmarks of its era. Designed by renowned architect Grigory Hippolytovich Lytsedarsky, the castle embodies his artistic vision and deep mastery of European architectural traditions, reflected in every detail of the ensemble.

Originally, the castle was not merely a residence but a full aristocratic estate: in addition to the main palace, it included guest buildings for hosting royal families, two lighthouses that served both as navigational markers and decorative features, and a wing with a tower—whose original purpose remains debated: was it a watchtower or a falconry pavilion for the nobility’s hunting traditions?
During the Soviet period, the estate was nationalized and repurposed: it housed a tuberculosis sanatorium and later the prestigious “Chayka” pension, which welcomed prominent cultural figures and party officials. However, during the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict, the building suffered severe damage from shelling. In the 2000s, a major fire further devastated much of the interior structures and finishes.

Today, only fragments of its former grandeur remain: the façades, partially preserved arches, ornamental stucco details, and the silhouette of the tower against the mountain backdrop. Despite its decay, the palace still radiates the aura of its past splendor—every cornice and leaning column whispering to visitors of a bygone era of elegance and power.

This early medieval basilica, dating back to the beginning of the 6th century, is one of the most significant architectural monuments from the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian in Abkhazia. As the largest Christian structure of its time in the region, it stands as evidence of the deep integration of Abkhaz lands into the cultural and religious sphere of the Byzantine Empire.

Originally, the temple’s walls were faced with marble—fragments of this cladding were discovered during archaeological excavations nearby, confirming the building’s high status. The basilica served multiple important functions: it was a site for baptisms and liturgical services, and likely housed the first episcopal see of the Abazgs—an ancient ethnic group considered ancestors of modern Abkhazians.

Over time, the complex lost its original significance, and today only isolated architectural elements remain. Despite its ruined state, these fragments allow researchers and visitors to reconstruct the grand scale and historical importance of the temple.

Located in the village of Agubedia in the Ochamchira District, the cathedral was constructed in the late 10th century during the reign of King Bagrat III—one of the key rulers in the formation of the Abkhazian Kingdom. This church served not only as a major religious center of its time but also as a royal burial site: after his death, the king was laid to rest here, giving the cathedral profound historical and memorial significance.

Over the centuries, the temple gradually fell into decay—abandoned and exposed to the elements, it succumbed to the destructive forces of time and nature. Only after extensive restoration efforts was the architectural monument revived and reopened to pilgrims and tourists.

Today, the cathedral’s appeal extends beyond the structure itself—its breathtaking natural setting has become a powerful draw. Perched against the backdrop of majestic high-mountain cirques, the site is surrounded by lush greenery in summer and capped with snow in winter, creating a scene of serene grandeur.

The Temple of Apostle Simon the Canaanite, built in the 9th–10th centuries in New Athos, is dedicated to one of the twelve disciples of Christ who, according to tradition, preached Christianity in the regions of Colchis and Abkhazia. This sanctuary became a key religious center associated with the early spread of Christianity along the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus.

Architecturally, the temple follows the distinctive Georgian-Byzantine style—featuring massive stone walls, arched openings, and a simple, austere form typical of medieval Orthodox structures in the region. Adjacent to the church lies the legendary grotto believed to have served as the apostle’s hermitage during his time in these lands.

Today, access inside the temple is restricted; visitors can only view it from the outside. Yet even this limited perspective is sufficient to feel the profound spirit of a place where history and nature merge into a single, sacred whole.

The evocative ruins of former towns in Abkhazia attract fans of "stalk tourism"—places that were once thriving centers of developed infrastructure and architectural grandeur. Notably, construction of these settlements involved German prisoners of war, whose craftsmanship contributed to the precision and scale of the buildings. During the Abkhaz-Georgian conflict, both towns endured an 18-month blockade, after which they were almost entirely abandoned.

Today, only a few families remain, living off-grid and self-sufficient in the midst of decay. Visiting these towns is essential for travelers seeking not just a sightseeing tour, but a deep immersion into history. The atmosphere here is heavy and somber—perhaps unsettling for some, yet it is precisely this intensity that gives the sites their unique power and authenticity.

The Ambara Temple is one of the oldest religious structures in Abkhazia, with ruins dating back to the 8th century. Located in the Gudauta District, just two kilometers from the village of Mussera, it stands today as a place where nature and history have seamlessly merged.

Originally constructed as a basilica with isolated naves, the temple measured 20 by 15 meters. Its walls, built from precisely hewn limestone blocks, are up to 75 centimeters thick. Now, the structure is almost entirely enveloped in lush greenery—moss and climbing vines drape over the stones, transforming it into an architectural relic seemingly lost within the forest, forgotten by time.
During the Soviet era, the temple was used as a filming location for a movie about Robinson Crusoe, adding to its mythical allure. A visit to Ambara is essential for those seeking not just a sightseeing stop, but a sanctuary of inner peace—where silence becomes the most powerful voice.

Located 25 kilometers from Gagra, Pitsunda is a quiet and cozy settlement that retained its status as an urban-type village until 2007 and is home to approximately four thousand residents. The town is renowned for its exceptional therapeutic microclimate, combining the gentle sea breeze with the coolness of mountain forests, as well as pristine pebble beaches ideal for active recreation—from seaside strolls to water sports and diving.

A defining feature of Pitsunda is its unique relict pine groves, preserved since ancient times. Stretching seven kilometers along the coastline, this forest belt is dominated by centuries-old pines that release phytoncides into the air, filling it with a delicate, refreshing scent of resin.

Among Pitsunda’s key attractions are:

**Historical and Architectural Reserve "Great Pityunt" ** The “Great Pityunt” Reserve is the hallmark of the resort town of Pitsunda and one of Abkhazia’s most significant cultural heritage sites. Within its territory are six major monuments spanning millennia of history—from ancient times to the Middle Ages.

Visitors can explore ancient dolmens, evidence of early settlements along the coast; ruins of the antique port city of Pityunt, which served as a key trading hub during classical antiquity; and surviving fragments of a Roman-era aqueduct that once supplied water to the settlement.

Of particular significance is the Temple of Saint Andrew the First-Called—the spiritual center of Christian Abkhazia, with foundations dating back to the 1st century AD. This sacred site stands as a powerful symbol of the region’s deep historical and religious roots.

Dolphinarium
The only marine animal theater in Abkhazia is located in the resort town of Pitsunda and opened in 2016. This modern open-air amphitheater, with a seating capacity of 400, is designed for spectacular performances under the open sky—making it a unique attraction in the region. All shows take place exclusively during the warm season, in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings and the sea breeze.

The stars of the shows are bottlenose dolphins and sea lions, professionally trained to demonstrate not only artistic skill but also remarkable responsiveness and interaction with their trainers. In addition to watching the performances, visitors can enjoy supplementary experiences: individual dolphin therapy—recommended as part of rehabilitation programs—photo sessions with the animals, and boat rides along the coast.

The resort town of Gagra lies just 39 kilometers from Sochi (Adler) Airport and attracts visitors not only with its stunning landscapes but also with its rich and layered history.

The first mentions of Gagra date back to the era of the ancient Greeks, after which the region came under Ottoman rule for centuries. In the 19th century, it became part of the Russian Empire. Each of these historical epochs left a profound imprint on Gagra’s cultural identity, shaping its unique character—a harmonious blend of Mediterranean charm, Eastern opulence, and Russian imperial elegance.

Today, Gagra is divided into two distinct parts: the modern section, with its developed infrastructure and contemporary accommodations, and the historic old town, where park ensembles, Art Nouveau villas, and the atmosphere of bygone eras have been lovingly preserved.

Among its key attractions, visitors are encouraged to explore:

Abaata Fortress
The Gagra Citadel in Gagra is an evocative early medieval structure, with origins dating back to the 5th–6th centuries. As the oldest architectural monument in the city, it has endured a turbulent history of repeated destruction and reconstruction—mirroring the fate of many Abkhaz fortresses: invasions, earthquakes, abandonment, and renewed efforts at revival.

Time and military conflicts have taken their toll—the once-majestic fortress now lies in ruins, its remains barely emerging from the surrounding greenery and rocky outcrops. Yet despite its fragmented state, the site radiates a powerful sense of the past. Every boulder, every weathered stone wall, speaks of Abkhazia’s enduring spirit—of strength, resilience, and the perpetual will to rise again.

Restaurant “Gagripsh”
Nestled in the heart of Gagra’s Seaside Park, Restaurant “Gagripsh” is a legendary landmark in the history of Abkhazian gastronomy. Its origins are closely tied to the opening of the Gagra Climate Station on January 9, 1903—the date marking the official beginning of the resort’s operation for holidaymakers. However, the building itself—a finely crafted wooden structure in Scandinavian style—was delivered to the site a year earlier, disassembled and shipped from Scandinavia.

Notably, an antique chronometer is mounted above the entrance: despite over a century of history, it still keeps precise time, as if guarding the memory of every era the restaurant has witnessed.
Since its founding, “Gagripsh” has been more than just a dining venue—it evolved into a cultural institution and a magnet for intellectuals, political figures, and artists. Among its famed guests were Emperor Nicholas II, Joseph Stalin, Maxim Gorky, Vladimir Mayakovsky, Ivan Bunin, Fyodor Shalyapin, and other luminaries of their time.

The menu features a refined blend of classic Russian cuisine with authentic Abkhaz touches. Of particular note is the signature “Olivier” salad, prepared according to a unique recipe with quail eggs, sea shrimp, beef tongue, and red caviar—an exquisite culinary reflection of the restaurant’s distinguished status.

A modern port, major transportation hub, and the republic’s main resort, Sukhumi is the capital of Abkhazia—originally founded in the 6th century BC by ancient Greeks. Throughout its long history, the city has been part of various ancient polises, belonged to the Roman Empire, and later evolved as a key center at the crossroads of cultures and civilizations.

Today, Sukhumi embodies a fusion of past and present: remnants of antiquity coexist with Art Nouveau and Soviet avant-garde architecture, complemented by contemporary urban infrastructure and a scenic Black Sea coastline.

Among the most notable attractions worth visiting in Sukhumi are:

Makhadzhirov Embankment in Sukhumi
The Sukhumi Embankment, stretching 850 meters along the Black Sea coast, is one of the oldest and most significant thoroughfares in the capital of Abkhazia. The earliest records of construction along this stretch date back to 1810, when the first residential and utility buildings appeared on the shore, laying the foundation for the city’s future resort character.

The embankment’s transformation into a central promenade occurred primarily during the 20th century, when buildings in the distinctive architectural style of the era—adorned with stucco, colonnades, and balconies—were erected. Many of these structures have been preserved to this day and are officially listed as cultural heritage sites.

Since 1994, the avenue has borne the name Makhadzhirov, in memory of a tragic chapter in Abkhaz history: the mass forced resettlement of the Abkhaz people to the Ottoman Empire following the end of the Caucasian War in the late 19th century.

Abkhazian State Museum
Located in Sukhumi, the Abkhazian State Museum is an ideal destination for those who prefer to explore history not through textbooks, but through immersive personal experience. Founded in 1917, its collection has grown over more than a century to include several thousand unique artifacts that reveal the deep history of ancient Apsny.

The museum showcases not only locally sourced items but also rare objects brought from other countries—evidence of the region’s extensive cultural connections throughout history. Of particular significance are findings from antiquity: a marble wall fragment and a bust recovered from the seabed of Sukhumi Bay—remnants of the lost world of Greek colonies along the Black Sea coast.

Among the most remarkable exhibits:

• A bronze Assyrian shield in the shape of a griffin, striking in its powerful imagery and flawless craftsmanship.
• Fossilized fish skeletons that once inhabited these waters.
• A collection of cave bear bones, offering a glimpse into the ancient fauna of the Caucasus.

The museum does more than preserve artifacts—it tells the story of the land, its people, and nature, making this heritage accessible to every visitor.

Founded in the 3rd century BC, New Athos is today one of the main tourist destinations in Abkhazia. Situated on the Black Sea coast, it combines profound historical heritage with exceptional natural beauty.

From ancient times, New Athos served as an important port and trade hub, experiencing periods of Byzantine influence, the medieval kingdom era, and Ottoman rule. Each historical layer has left its mark on the city—from fortress ruins and sacred temples to distinctive architectural styles.

Among the most notable cultural attractions in New Athos are:

Museum of the Abkhazian Kingdom Located in New Athos near the Church of Simon the Canaanite, the Museum of the Abkhazian Kingdom has been a significant cultural center since its opening in 2010. It is dedicated to the history of the ancient city of Anacopia—the predecessor of modern-day New Athos.

The exhibition is housed in two halls and features both archaeological artifacts and detailed reconstructions that bring to life the everyday customs, culture, and political landscape of the medieval Abkhazian Kingdom, which flourished in this region during the early Middle Ages.

Anacopia Fortress Perched atop the Iverian Mountain in New Athos, Anacopia Fortress is the best-preserved defensive structure in the entire Eastern Black Sea region. Built at the end of the 7th century, it occupies a strategically vital location, covering an expansive area of 450 by 150 meters, offering panoramic control over both maritime and land routes.

Notably, despite numerous military conflicts throughout the region’s history, the fortress was never captured by force—its impregnability confirmed by both its sophisticated architecture and historical chronicles.

Reaching Abkhazia—the “Land of the Soul”—nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Caucasus—is possible via several reliable routes. Despite the limited number of direct connections, its geographic proximity to southern Russia makes travel accessible and comfortable for tourists from across the country.

By Train

Rail travel is one of the most popular options. Direct train services connect Moscow with Sukhumi:

• Train № 306M: journey time of 1 day, 14 hours, 53 minutes
• Train № 305M: journey time of 1 day, 2 hours, 13 minutes

For travelers from Saint Petersburg, route № 479A/480A is available, with a travel time of 2 days, 10 hours.

Passengers from other cities typically opt for a transfer in Adler: they arrive at Adler Railway Station via regional train or flight, then continue to Abkhazia by bus or shared taxi.

By Air

The same principle applies to air travel: there are currently no direct international flights to airports in Abkhazia. However, most tourists fly into Sochi (Adler) International Airport. From there, regular buses and shared taxis (marshrutkas) operate frequently to Sukhumi, Gagra, Pitsunda, and other major resort destinations in Abkhazia.

By Car
Drivers typically take the M-4 “Don” highway, which seamlessly continues into Krasnodar Krai and leads directly to the Psou Border Crossing (near Adler). The time required to cross the border by car varies from several minutes to several hours, depending on the season and traffic volume.

Important note: Russian citizens may enter Abkhazia using only their internal passport—no foreign passport or visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. For longer stays, visitors must submit an application and questionnaire online via the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Abkhazia to obtain a visa in advance.

In conclusion, Abkhazia is a landscape where every attraction deserves to be seen. The number of compelling sites is so vast that they cannot be counted in dozens—but in hundreds. The most compelling exhibits are not confined to museums: they surround you—the frescoes on the walls of Neo-Byzantine churches, the sculptures beside fountains, the bridges arched over flowing rivers. Some of these sites were studied by Soviet-era scholars, and their discoveries remain integral to today’s guided tours.