Svaneti

Svaneti, one of the most ancient historical provinces of Georgia, is located on the southern slopes of the Caucasus. Surrounded by white-capped peaks, Svaneti is one of the most remarkable regions of Georgia, a hotpot of history steeped amidst timeless unwavering mountains.

Svaneti is particularly known for its tower settlements, their cuisine, their unique musical instruments and tradition of woodcarving. Carpenters still make incredible furniture using the same traditional decorative ornaments.

Svaneti is particularly known for its tower settlements, their cuisine, their unique musical instruments and tradition of woodcarving. Carpenters still make incredible furniture using the same traditional decorative ornaments.

History

In ancient times, Svaneti was part of the Colchis Kingdom. The myth of the Greek Argonauts’ voyage to Colchis is thought to be connected to the gold of Svaneti. Svans used sheep wool to capture the gold from the rivers - the wool was fixed to a board that was placed into water, wool side up. Once removed from the water and dried, the gold would fall from the dry wool.

Svaneti periodically gained independence and had its own ruler and tribal councils. Settlements grew out of large family farms and brotherhoods were created as big families divided.

Svan religious beliefs and traditions were tied intimately to the fields. They have great respect for rituals which often feature deities protecting cattle and people, and granting fertility