FROM THE BARENTS SEA TO THE SEA OF JAPAN

abkhazia republic - республика абхазия

Abkhazia broke away from Georgia after the bloody 1992-1993 civil war. In 2008 Russia recognized Abkhazia's independence. Several countries followed the suit. Abkhazia is de facto an independent country. The only way to visit Abkhazia is to cross the Russian-Abkhaz border south of Sochi. Foreigners need an Abhaz visa and a double entry Russian visa.

The capital of Abkhazia is the town of Sukhum. The spelling "Sukhumi" is a Georgian way to name the town. When in Abkhazia you'd better adhere to the Abkhaz spelling and pronunciation "Sukhum". Sukhum is a green and sunny subtropical town.

The presidential palace.

Streetscapes of Sukhum.

The seafront.

Reminders of the 1992-1993 war.

Holiday makers sunbathe and swim in the sea as per their national customs.

Bird-eye views of Sukhum.

Lake Ritsa is famous for scenic views.

Ruins of the 10th century Christian temple can be seen on the way to Lake Ritsa.

The 1875 New Athos monastery can be visited on the way to Sukhum.

The 6th century Christian church in the village of Dranda.

Deliberately displayed ancient brickwork.

The 10th century Christian church in the village of Bedia.

Signs of the 1992-1993 war are still visible. All over Abkhazia there are big and small war memorials dedicated to Abkhaz fighters.

At least one war memorial dedicated to victims of the 1992-1993 war between Georgia and Abkhazia can be found in Europe in the Scottish town of Kilmarnock, a twin town of Sukhum(i).

Many Georgian villages south of Sukhum remain abondoned. Homes are ruined and overgrown. Some turned into graves.