Svaneti towers: understanding a mountain settlement

In Upper Svaneti, stone towers rise above houses and mountain slopes. They are reminders of the region's past, but the surrounding villages remain the scene of everyday life.

Landscape and settlements

Upper Svaneti in Georgia is famous for its mountainous cultural landscape and medieval tower houses. The World Heritage Site includes the village of Chazhashi in the Ushguli community.

What to pay attention to

Look how the towers, houses, roads and fields are located in relation to the valley and mountains. Different buildings have their own history, so the general shape of the tower will not tell all its purposes without local context.

Respectful visit

Before your trip, check the condition of mountain roads and the weather forecast. Do not enter courtyards and towers without permission; It is better to photograph residents with their consent. Leave enough time for the road and choose available routes according to the conditions of the day.