As a hidden gem on the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains you find Svanetia - the highest inhabited area of the Caucasus and an untamed corner of Georgia. Surrounded by running streams, alpine meadows and 3-5 km (950-1600 feet) high mountain peaks, several hundred impressive towers from the Middle Ages are found in the area around the villages of Mestia and Ushguli. The towers were originally built as a defense, but also served as housing and protection for the Swans' cattle. Today, their primary function is to enrich the stunning mountain views with a corner of Georgian history, upheld by present-day Swans. |
 Mestia, the main town of Svanetia |
 Horses are frequently used as a means of transport in Svanetia |
 Women in the street of Mestia |
 From Svanetia there is a view to the high peaks of the Caucasus |
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 Siesta for piglets |
 Svanetia's traditional medieval towers |
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 In the evening the towers of Mestia are illuminated |
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 Mestia is at the foot of Caucasus |
 Local resident of Ushguli |
 Mestia |
 Ushguli |
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 A stranded car in Ushguli |
 Our local local host couple (to the right) in Ushguli |
 The view to the mountains from Ushguli is unmatched
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 An elder couple from Ushguli |
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 Most towers are erected in the year 900-1200 |
 In the streets of Ushguli |
 Some houses in Ushguli need a renovation |
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 The pigs are happy to be photographed |
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 Despite the altitude (2,100 m), frogs are frequent in Ushguli |
 Ushguli |
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 Ushguli |
 Ushguli |
 Church in Ushguli |
 Ushguli |
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 Horses are frequently used as a means of transport in Ushguli |
 Car needing a service check |
 Driving down from the mountains
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