The History Of Abkhazia
According to archeologists, the territory of modern Abkhazia was settled more primitive people of the Paleolithic period. On the basis of these settlements in the VI century BC ancient Greeks founded the city-colony Dioscuri. In 65 BC the area was conquered by the Romans and erected the fortress of Sebastopolis, now there is the capital of Abkhazia Sukhum.
In the VI century ad, Abkhazia is part of the Byzantine Empire and the Christianization of the population. Formed the Abkhazian Kingdom, which captures the part of Western Georgia.
The increased influence of Turkey in the XVI century and the spread of Islam is accompanied by the destruction of religious values and provokes a popular uprising. In 1809, the Abkhazian Prince turned to Russia with a request for patronage and protection. 29 Feb 1810, Emperor Alexander I issued a Manifesto on the annexation of the Abkhazian Principality to Russia.
Modern Abkhazia
In the Russian Empire and later in the RFSSR Abkhazia is actively developing the economy and culture. The country became part of Georgia as a sovereign Republic. When Georgia in 1990 came from the USSR, Abkhazia expressed their desire to remain in the Union.
Territorial and property disputes with Georgia resulted in an armed confrontation. Hostilities ceased in 1994, under the UN intervention. Since 2001, Abkhazia is seeking entry into the CIS as an associated state within Russia. Georgia and Western countries still have not recognized the independence of the state.
The climate and sights of Abkhazia
Perhaps the main value of Abkhazia is a Black sea and the mountains. The climate is Mediterranean subtropical, clean pebble beaches and an abundance of architectural monuments attract travelers and tourists all over the world.
Gagra, Pitsunda and New Athos, resorts from around the world. Pure healthy air and mineral springs provided Abkhazia the title of balneological resorts.
New Athos monastery and temple of Kamany are sites of Christian pilgrimage. New Athos cave is the most amazing natural wonder of the Caucasus. Deep into the Iberian mountain is a special railway, visitors open, 6 of the 11 halls of the cave.
Special pride of Abkhazia is a mountainous lake Ritsa, whose waters never freeze and the depth reaches 150 meters. On the way to the lake you can admire the waterfalls that are associated with many local legends, explore the ruins of the ancient fortress of the Khasan-Abaa and see with his own eyes that the Blue lake is called the natural sapphire not to be witty, and unique, rich color of water.
Features Abkhazia
The laws of hospitality are sacred to the Abkhaz. A guest is considered a "brings seven happinesses" and around it will focus all the life in the house. Thanking for the reception of money, it would insult the owners. During lavish feasts you need to get up when the room is a new man.
Abkhazian wine is the pride of the people, but out of the country can be no more than three liters per person. To get to Abkhazia only through the territory of Russia, the nearest airport is in Adler. For citizens of Russia will be enough valid ordinary passport, foreigners will need Russian transit visa.