The Final Days of Georgian Nomads
Natela Grigalashvili
Mountainous Adjara, one of Georgia’s most distinctive regions, has preserved its traditions and old ways of life. However, the isolation of its inhabitants has been a persistent issue. In recent decades, the region has faced significant social and economic challenges that have hindered its development and integration with the rest of the country.
Due to these difficulties, many inhabitants lacked access to education, healthcare, and basic services. Villages often experienced power shortages, and in winter, they were cut off from the outside world. This has led to many villages being abandoned, with many families migrating to other parts of Georgia or abroad, especially to Turkey.
Khulo and Ghorjomi Gorge, the highest settlements in the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, consist of 18 villages. With small populations, many of these villages only have elementary schools, and high school students have to travel to other villages. The roads are poor, and infrastructure is inadequate. The residents, mostly Muslim, are cattle breeders. Due to the lack of pastures, they move their herds to the mountains in summer and return in autumn. Many men also work seasonal jobs in Turkey for additional income.
The challenging living conditions have led to the decline of this unique region, and its traditions are at risk of being forgotten.
