SUKHUM, July 23 - Sputnik, Astanda Ardzinba. IN Lately Interest in traditional Abkhaz clothing in the republic is growing among both women and men; parents often buy national costumes for their young children, fashion designer of children’s traditional costume Esma Cholokua told Sputnik in an interview.

According to her, in great demand Not only traditional costumes are used, but also stylized clothing.

"People like it, they order for Everyday life, and for special occasions, and we sew with pleasure. The number of orders for Flag Day is increasing significantly. I choose the fabric depending on the style of the dress. For girls you can come up with a lot of models, but for boys there are fewer options, it’s always a Circassian jacket, trousers, a blouse and a cap,” Choloqua noted.

Artist-fashion designer Madina Chanba noted that the diversity of national costumes is achieved not so much through the cut and style of clothing, but through fabrics, trims and accessories.

“In the old days, the ornament of a suit told about the social affiliation of its owner. Each surname had its own family symbols, images of which were used when sewing clothes. The belt and fasteners, which before were always metal, were of great importance, they spoke about the status and origin of a person, now buttons often the craftsmen themselves weave,” Chanba noted.

According to her, the princely costume and traditional clothes peasants differed mostly in fittings, but not in style. The princes sewed clothes from velvet, brocade and lace, simple peasants they could only afford linen or cotton, which were decorated with embroidery, she added.

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© Photo: courtesy of Esma Choloqua

Currently, fashion designers often use ready-made appliqués, but hand embroidery makes the costume more valuable, the fashion designer believes. This year, according to her, it is popular for girls to use the attributes of a men's traditional costume.

"In my new collection I created dresses that use men's belts, gazyrs, and even daggers. Girls love wearing this. Among the new products and stylized traditional costume jackets that are comfortable for office work", Chanba noted.

© Sputnik Astanda Ardzinba

The modern State Flag of Abkhazia was approved by the session of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Abkhazia on July 23, 1992 after the decision was made to terminate the Constitution of the Abkhazian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic of 1978 and restore the Constitution of the SSR of Abkhazia of 1925.

Every year, in honor of the celebration of Flag Day, solemn and public events. One of the main attributes of the holiday is the Abkhaz national costume, which many residents of the country wear on this day.

Abstract of a series of articles

A little about the authors and the book itself. Roger Jesse is an Englishman who came to Abkhazia several years ago as a tourist and decided to settle in this country permanently. He teaches at the Abkhaz State University. Translated to English language several books about Abkhazia, which gave him the opportunity to become more closely acquainted with the history of the country and its traditions. The idea for the book came from Roger's love of making lists of all kinds for any occasion. The Republic of Abkhazia is becoming the object of increasing interest from the world community. In this book we wanted to show a country with different sides, including in our research materials on 10 topics (traditions, attractions, vegetation, cooking, etc.) and then the 10 most significant, from our point of view, sections in each topic. Although this selection only scratches the surface, we hope that the reader will be intrigued by the amazing ancient country- Abkhazia and he will have a desire for further research. Maxim Gvindzhia - Abkhazian. From 1999 he worked in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Abkhazia, from April 2010 to October 2011 - as a minister. His fascination with the history of ancient civilizations (especially the Mayan and Inca cultures) helped him write about Abkhazia. Galina Jesse is a Belarusian, Russian citizen, the wife of Roger Jesse.

According to scientists, the oldest species The clothing of the Abkhazians was a burka (auapa) - a kind of cloak-cape made of black shaggy felt. The most characteristic part of a man's outfit has always been the Circassian coat (akhtyrpal). Bashlyks, felt hats and hats served as headdress. An important part of the equipment was “alabasha” - a wooden stick with a pointed (metal) end. But weapons were considered the main attribute of the men's toilet.

ABKHAZ ETHNOS

Located on the border of Europe and Asia, Abkhazia is a crossroads where different times The interests of powerful states collided and the paths of civilization passed, which left its mark on the formation of the ethnic group. Whether Shaban Abash, a resident of the village of Adzyubzha, was a descendant of black slaves brought to Abkhazia by sea, or whether his ancestors themselves got here from the African continent is still a mystery to ethnographers.

The people of Abkhazia are a unique multinational entity (Russians, Armenians, Mingrelians, Svans, Georgians, Jews, Greeks, etc.), the core of which is formed by the Abkhazians with their “apsura” philosophy, which includes the concept of “alamys” as a national everyday system views and moral standards.

PEOPLE'S Gatherings

The rich traditions of oral speech provided extensive material for the development of oratory skills. The art of speaking and persuasion, in which Abkhazians traditionally excelled, played important role at numerous meetings that are an integral part folk culture. Historical gatherings and meetings at which the fate of the country were discussed were usually held in the famous Lykhnashta clearing. Today, festivals with equestrian competitions are regularly held there. So polo is not just a pastime for British high society.

A game similar to it has been popular in Abkhazia since time immemorial.

SETTLEMENTS

Ancient Abkhaz settlements were usually located in the interior of the country, far from the sea. They consisted of separate family estates - hamlets, scattered at a considerable distance from each other. There is still a lot of leisurely spirit there. traditional way of life life. On the other hand, the first Greek cities (Dioscuria, Pitiunt, Gienos, etc.) arose on the coast about 2500 years ago and their founders gradually assimilated into the local environment. Dioscuria (Sukhum) occupied a leading position in the list of historical urban-type settlements.

In Yashtukha, a suburb of Sukhum, the first inhabitants appeared half a million years ago (according to L. Solovyov and others).

A typical Abkhaz house is a two-story building with a gallery along the facade. A traditional estate includes residential and outbuildings, a courtyard, a vegetable garden, arable land, and an apiary. The yard in the estate should be spacious: large families life does not stop - weddings, funerals, births. Under the canopy of old trees entwined with vines, in summer period family life takes place, family celebrations and rituals are also celebrated there, which require the presence of all relatives, close and distant, and this is sometimes about a thousand people.

Near one of the walls in the earthen floor there was an open fireplace, above which a pipe woven from twigs and coated with clay was hung.

Ethical Standards family life, based on customs, imply the subordination of juniors to elders and women to men on the basis of the principle of mutual respect and unbreakable connection generations. Husbands in Abkhazia never stooped to beating or cursing their wives, considering such behavior as contrary to customs. Traditions developed over centuries establish relationships in the family, regulate funerals, weddings, births, baptisms, usually accompanied by feasts, which are attended by all members of the clan and many guests.

Most important point wedding ceremony- “The arrival of the bride in new family" According to modern tradition - either in a carriage or in a limousine. The traditional cradle is passed down from generation to generation.

CELEBRATIONS

For centuries, the population was under constant threat of attack, cattle rustling, kidnapping, and it was necessary to defend this in bloody skirmishes. IN traditional festivals Therefore, equestrian competitions dominate, providing an opportunity to show mastery of horses and weapons. This was reflected in folklore (tales about the Nart heroes), in songs and dances. Horse racing in Abkhazia is very popular; the intensity of passions at the Abkhazian equestrian competitions “Lykhnashta” is no less than at the English “Royal Ascot” (royal horse races).

Interesting: dance movement“Passage on tiptoes,” according to legend, appeared because the ground near the ancient furnaces for smelting iron was so hot that it was only possible to pull out the product by running up on tiptoes.

TRADITIONAL CLOTHING

According to scientists, the oldest type of clothing of the Abkhazians was the burka (auapa) - a kind of cape made of black shaggy felt. The most characteristic part of a man's outfit has always been the Circassian coat (akhtyrpal). Bashlyks served as headdress, felt hats and hats. An important accessory equipment was “alabasha” - a wooden stick with pointed (metal) end. But the main attribute the men's room was considered a weapon. It has been valued since ancient times Abkhazians above all and was a source of special pride.

The women's set was dominated by fitted dresses with wedge-shaped neckline and metal clasps on the chest and caftans-beshmets.

Features of everyday life, clothing, housing, utensils, tools, etc. determine ethnicity people. The production of copper, bronze and later iron was an integral part of the local industry. Pottery production even predated this period. Most of In the old days, clothes were made at home from local materials. The labor education of girls was given great importance, in particular, they mastered sewing, cutting, embroidery, weaving, etc.

/ Customs and traditions of the Abkhazians

Customs and traditions in Abkhazia. Character of the Abkhazians

Like any other Transcaucasian country, Abkhazia has many ancient customs and traditions. The basis of Abkhaz culture is the veneration of elders. This is where all the traditions come from: hospitality, reverence for nature and careful attitude to her, love for one’s native place, protection of the interests of the country, respect for family ties, loyalty to one’s word, dignity and honor...

Abkhazians, for the most part, are very friendly and hospitable people, but they perceive disrespect for their traditions very painfully.

There is a rather complex moral and ethical code here - “apsuara” (“Abkhazism”, “Abkhazian etiquette”). This is an ancient set of rules that are followed here in almost all areas of relationships between people. The apsuar places emphasis on honor and conscience, nobility and gallantry, courage and philanthropy, hospitality and respect for elders, modesty and patience. Conscience (“alamys”) is held in high esteem here. Abkhazia has very famous saying“The death of an Abkhaz is in his own conscience” means that, having committed an act incompatible with his conscience, the Abkhaz “dies alive.”

Another important quality for Abkhazians is humanity (“auayura”). The unshakable rule is respect for any person. Here they say “respect for others is a measure of respect for oneself.” But respect and condescension (“eikhatsgylara”) are completely different, incompatible concepts. On the street he can absolutely approach you stranger and ask how you are enjoying your holiday in Abkhazia, how you are doing and how your health is - and this is just a demonstration of respect for the guest. And this is where the unwritten code of “apsuar” comes into play again. According to the law of hospitality, when you come to the sea, you are visiting not only a specific family (from whom you rent housing), but you are guests for the entire village, and all residents, in relation to you, are considered, as it were, hosts. And while you are on vacation in Abkhazia, you are their guest, and the guest should be the center of attention of the entire family, relatives and neighbors...

Abkhazians very rarely raise their voices. Screaming or simply having an excessively loud voice in a public place is perceived as a sign of lack of culture or a desire to quarrel. Even at the bazaar, Abkhazians remain calm and do not raise their voices to attract buyers! Here, too, you can rarely hear loud music on the streets; only open cafes and restaurants allow themselves to play it in a quiet background, but nothing more. But, in the event of some holiday, this tradition is forgotten for a while.

Abkhazians are very restrained in showing their emotions, but they are very smiling and friendly. They really value modesty in communication. Expensive gifts are accepted only in relationships between equals, and indications that something has been done incorrectly in someone else’s home will be considered tactless. Here, too, it is not customary to boast about your wealth.

Due to the good nature of the people, the element of false modesty exists and flourishes here quite clearly. Abkhazians often apologize with or without reason, for example, for inconvenience caused, for ignorance of the language or unfamiliarity with someone present, in general, for any little thing.

Shame (“phashyarop”) is very important for the Abkhazians. Children are taught this from an early age: from vocabulary and gestures, to restraint and consideration in relation to other people. Perhaps this is why the manners and restraint of the Abkhazians are often striking. A local resident would rather keep silent about a problem or politely refuse an offer than stick out his opinion or ask for help. Arguments in front of strangers are very rare here and are absolutely unproductive!

Abkhazians address each other as "you", but local etiquette There are a huge number of additional forms of respectful address that elevate the interlocutor and demonstrate humility, for example: “In your place,” “Your sores are on me,” “So that I die before you.” A didactic tone is inappropriate when talking to Abkhazians. If suddenly the interlocutor accidentally interrupted the speaker, he will immediately use the atoning phrase: “I cut your speech with gold,” which puts maximum respect for the person, for his living word.

Exchange of greetings is an important element of Abkhaz etiquette. The one who enters greets the owner first, the man greets the woman, the elder greets the younger, the horseman greets the pedestrian. Not saying hello or not returning a greeting is considered the height of bad manners, even an insult. Traditional forms of greeting are: “ Good morning! (“Shzhyybzia!”), “Good afternoon!” (“Mshybzia!”) or “ Good evening! (“Humbzia!”). They answer with the words: “Good to see you!” (“Bzia will kill!”) or “Welcome!” (“Bzaala waabeit!”). Men, greeting each other, raise right hand in front of you to chest level, while slightly clenching your fingers into a fist. A handshake between men is not necessary. It is customary to mutually inquire about the health and affairs of the interlocutor and his family.

Among the Abkhazians, like other peoples of the Caucasus, it is customary to stand up if any adult man comes; this is considered a sign of deep respect for him. “Even a cow rises from its place when another one approaches it, but how can a person not honor a person by standing up,” say the Abkhazians. When a woman appears, men can also stand up, but this is not necessary. In public places, such as cafes, everyone entering the room is ignored unless they are strangers and do not intend to join the company. But if a familiar person comes, this tradition of greeting by standing up is strictly observed. Not standing up when a person comes in means showing disrespect for him and, in a certain sense, even insulting him.

The unwritten law of the Abkhazians is unwavering respect for elders. You must stand in the presence of elders. It is better to sit down not immediately after the elder asks to do so, but a little later; It is not allowed to sit waddling, with legs spread out to the sides or legs crossed. When walking with your elder, you should under no circumstances overtake them or cross their path. They will not ask the elder to smoke, and they generally do not smoke in front of him. At the same time, the eldest is given fire if he smokes, and they help him in every possible way in his work and labor. Abkhazians do not talk about love, women, or even their children in the presence of their elders.

Matchmaking is a very colorful ritual in Abkhazia. Previously, the fathers agreed on the wedding, and often this happened after the birth of the bride and groom. Now young Abkhazians are looking for their soul mate themselves. But, until now, the custom of asking for a blessing from parents through the youngest family member or a friend, but not personally, is sacredly revered. When the fathers of the bride and groom agree on the wedding, they throw bullets at each other's feet or shoot into the air from a revolver or shotgun. This mandatory matchmaking ritual is called “ashkarshva”.

It is also interesting that such an eastern custom as the abduction of the bride by the groom for subsequent marriage still flourishes in Abkhazia. In Abkhazia, this romantic ritual is called “amadzala”.

One of the new features of the life of the Abkhaz family is the severance of relations with the Georgian population (or a strong narrowing of contacts with it) as a result of the military conflict. 20 years ago, marriages between Abkhazians and Georgians were common, but nowadays they are reduced to a minimum. Marriages with Russians and representatives of other nations have become more frequent North Caucasus. Abkhazians marry Russian girls, and Abkhazians marry Russians, Adygeis and others. All this significantly increases the role of the Russian language in society.

The honor and glory of women in Abkhazia are carefully guarded. A woman is highly respected among the people; insulting her is equated to a blood grudge. Indecent expressions in the presence of women are not allowed, and taking revenge on a woman is considered a shameful act, unworthy of a man. It is not customary here to hit women in any situation. The one who raises his hand against a woman and insults her honor by word or action will cover himself with shame. A “real” man considers this beneath his dignity. In Abkhazia they say: “ Good dog“And she doesn’t bark at the woman.”

The wife is the husband’s assistant in all matters, the guardian hearth and home. Household- this is the sacred duty of Abkhaz women. In case of offense or rough treatment the wife can demand a divorce, which is sometimes accomplished without any formalities, by returning the wife to the house of her relatives. Men rarely leave their wives; leaving a wife means offending her entire family, and the husband must give an explanation or take her back.

Abkhazians have a special attitude towards children. Here they are very loved and pampered in every possible way, but it is not customary to pay special attention to them in public. As soon as a child enters the house, the elders always stand in honor of the newcomer. Here it is customary to say: “Children are the future of humanity, how we behave, so they will lead in later life" And you can't argue with that. Showing interest in children on the part of a guest will be received with approval, but up to a certain limit. The kids themselves feel very at ease in an adult environment, but quite shy, especially in relation to a stranger.

Despite the fact that most Abkhazians consider themselves to be one of the main world religions (Christianity or Islam), as a rule, they do not perform the prescribed rituals. A one God recognize Antsva - the Creator of all things.

Holidays are traditionally celebrated here with family and friends. Any feast is accompanied by wishes of health and good luck. On the New Year's holiday, festivities last all night and everywhere you can hear congratulations to each other: “Chaanybziala ashykus chyts!”, which in Abkhazian means “Happy New Year!”

Old New Year or Azhyrnykhua - associated in Abkhazia with pagan tradition make a sacrifice to the deity - Shashva. On this day, the Abkhazian holiday table always includes a dish of goat meat or roasted rooster.

Another interesting feature of the population of Abkhazia is the incredible number of centenarians. One and, perhaps, the most main reason longevity in the country is the air in Abkhazia. It is rich in negatively charged ions, sea salts, oxygen (41%), (for comparison, the oxygen content in Moscow is only 8% (!)). So, if in the mountains of Abkhazia the number of negative ions is about 20,000 (!!!) per 1 cubic meter. cm of air, then in the forests of central Russia there are only 3,000 per 1 cubic meter. cm air. In general, 42% of all inhabitants of the planet who have reached one hundred years or more live in the Caucasus.

The mountain-sea climate and ionized air, the rhythmic alternation of work and rest, psychological stability, restraint and a sense of self-control help many Abkhazians, in good health and strong memory, live to a very advanced age.

Although local residents They live under the hot southern sun, they all have practically no tan! This is due to the fact that in Abkhazia it is not customary to show the naked body. Local men here do not wear shorts, and women, as a rule, wear dresses that cover their shoulders and have skirts, the hem of which must cover their knees. Open knees for women in Abkhazia are still considered the height of indecency, and such shamelessness is tolerated only on the part of vacationers. Although local youth are increasingly trying to dress in a European manner.

Swimsuits and swimming trunks in Abkhazia are only allowed on the beach. It is not customary here to walk like this on the streets of the city or in any populated areas; as a rule, this will cause a rather sharp negative reaction from the local population.

The national costume of the Abkhazians is of great interest. The men's Abkhazian national costume includes a Circassian jacket with gazyrs made of deer antlers, a burka, hoods, felt hats, leggings made of woolen material with stripes or braids, trimmed with black laces, with beautifully stitched black thread edges, as well as a belt decorated metal set - iron plaques lined with a pattern of white metal (up to ten or more). A mandatory attribute of the national costume is weapons (daggers and flintlocks) with bone and metal inlays, as well as a stick-staff with an iron tip (“alabashya”).

Burka - a cloak-cloak made of black shaggy felt perfectly protects from bad weather. Abkhazians wear the bashlyk in different ways: they tie it around their head in the form of a turban, and throw the ends behind their backs or leave them hanging freely on the sides. At celebrations and holidays the bashlyk is worn skillfully wrapped around the head; at a funeral - it is loose and draped over the head with blades hanging in front; in hot weather, they wear it slung over the left shoulder, and in winter they tie it around like a scarf, crossing the ends under the chin and throwing it behind the back.

To the female Abkhazian national clothes include wide long trousers with gathering at the ankles, and a corset, or breast coverer, as well as various shirts, dresses, caftans and sleeveless vests. Headdresses are different shapes scarves and shawls, on the feet - morocco shoes, boots, or high-heeled shoes. Women should dress in such a way that, except for the face and hands, the entire body is covered.

A traditional Abkhaz house is two-storey house, on the ground floor of which there is a utility part of the home, a kitchen with a stove and a home dining room. The hall on the top floor is the main room of the house - guests are invited here. As a rule, next to an Abkhaz house there is a courtyard, which is a vast area on which there is a large shady tree (cherry laurel, hornbeam or walnut), and under which the owners spend their free time on hot days.

Near the house there are outbuildings, for example, utility rooms for storing grain, rooms for goats, a barn for livestock, sheds for a stable. Huge jugs for wine buried in the ground, in special rooms, are becoming increasingly rare. If there is an apiary, then, as a rule, it is located behind the house.

The hospitality of the Abkhazians is legendary. A person may have all sorts of virtues, but if he is not hospitable and hospitable, as a rule, he will be morally condemned and
disadvantaged in their society.

Previously, to receive guests, a special house was built in the courtyard of “asasaairta” (“the place where guests come”). Nowadays, the guest is received in the best room, specially allocated for him; usually the hall of the so-called “big house” serves as the asasaairt.

And to this day, the guest here is loved and highly valued, the attitude towards the guest is the most impeccable. The most important element of the hospitality ritual is, after all, food, bread and salt (“acheidzhika”). The guest is offered all the best in the house - the best wine, food, fruit, nothing is spared for the guest here. Women and youth prepare food in the kitchen; chickens, goats, and rams are slaughtered in honor of the guest. They will serve him everything that is in the house, they will do everything possible so that he has a good time and rests peacefully, and the help of neighbors, as a rule, will make the lack of funds or the absence of the owner or mistress of the house unnoticeable. In a word, all the best food available at home should be served on the table, for “what is hidden from the guest belongs to the devil.” Wherever the guest is in a hurry, he will not be allowed to leave without a treat, which often takes on the character of a whole feast.

The Abkhaz feast begins and ends with the ritual of hand washing, which is one of the traditional elements of the hospitality ceremony. One of the young family members, usually the daughter or daughter-in-law of the owner, takes a jug of water in one hand, holds soap in the other, a clean towel thrown over his shoulder, and approaches the guest. Everyone gets up. There is a scene between the guest of honor and the elder in the house during which they invite each other to perform ablution first.

The guest is the first to sit down at the table. He is seated in the place of honor at the table. The hosts will not sit down until the guest does so. This standing in front of the guest is a sign of respect for him. When guests are present, inappropriate pranks and games of young people and children are not allowed, whose presence, like women, is not at all necessary where elders are.

When the guest is fed and watered, the best bed in the house is prepared for him. As a rule, the guest undresses and lies down in the presence of women, who straighten the guest's blanket, slightly dim the lamp and, finally, leave, wishing the guest good night.

The main duty of the host who receives the guest is to protect his life, honor and property from attacks by anyone. If a guest allows himself too much in some of his words and actions, the hosts treat this with maximum condescension and patience. Still, you shouldn’t abuse your hospitality...

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I haven’t written about Svaneti for a long time, and now I decided to talk about Svan hats.

The Svan hat is a very necessary thing in the harsh mountain climate.
It is warm in winter and cool in summer.
Since ancient times, mountaineers have been known for keeping large herds of sheep, so the question of choosing material for a hat has never been an issue.
The Svan hat was also good because you could drink water from it on the road. In addition, the Svans say that wearing a hat helps relieve headaches and nervous tension. This universal product has ancient origins. Then the shape of the hat was different from what we are used to seeing now. The hat was more elongated (dome-shaped) with long brims, which protected from wind and snow in winter, and from sun rays in summer.
In those days, hats were made differently than they are now. Over time, everything changes, improves and simplifies, but at the same time the color of the product is lost.
I will tell you about the ancient method of making a Svan hat.
Svan hats come in three colors (corresponding to the color of the sheep's wool). Black, white and grey. Gray color is obtained by mixing black and white wool.
A Svan should have 3 hats:
Black hats were usually worn when there was grief in the family.
The gray one was for everyday wear.
White was worn for the holiday.
The Svan hat was not cheap, because it took a lot of time and effort to make.
First, the sheep's wool is sheared. Then it is washed and dried. It took 1 week to dry the wool.
Then the fur becomes itchy. But for this in those days they did not use such techniques. http://pics.livejournal.com/svaneti/p ic/0002zrqa/, the device was called labdzgyna (Svan name). This wooden product is about 60 cm in height. There are iron pins on the top. It is almost impossible to explain the process without showing it. I'll just say that it's pretty dangerous action and women often wounded their hands with pins. It took 2-3 days to comb the fur.
Washed and combed wool was laid out in circles 10 cm thick. The fabric was rolled into a roll and felt with a heavy wooden stick. This process took 4-5 days.
When the material became thin and dense, it was put on a wooden block and shaped with a wooden hammer. They were tied with ropes and left to dry for at least 2 weeks.
Without removing the cap, they shaved the hat and trimmed off the excess from the bottom. Then they took it off, trimmed the bottom of the hat and made a cross out of string.
Previously, they also made a rope that went from the top of the hat to the shoulders; it was used to fix the hat on the head so that it would not fly off. Nowadays they don’t make this element anymore.
When putting on the hat for the first time, they illuminated it and read prayers so that the owner of the hat would be healthy and happy.
Only women, the most skilled and respected, were involved in making hats. But women were strictly forbidden to wear a hat; this could be perceived as an insult.
The hat was treated with great care and was always folded so that it would not fall. And if the hat fell off, they said it was bad luck.
The Svan hat was an expensive gift. If a person was given a hat, it meant that he was highly respected and trusted.
Sometimes hats were passed down by inheritance, especially the hats of mahshi (powerful persons, heads of clans, elders).
When you put on the hat for the first time, it seems prickly, it seems that it is hot in it. But when you wear it constantly, you don’t feel it at all. This is probably why old Svans wear Svan hats without taking them off.
Nowadays you can rarely buy a real Svan hat in Svaneti. In the 20th century, one of the most famous craftswomen in Svaneti was Ekaterina Pirtskhelani.

The country of the soul – Abkhazia – is exactly what tourists say about the resorts of this state, with its rich culture and traditions. Fresh air, mountains, stunning landscapes, grottoes, mountain lakes, caves - the nature of this country is truly amazing, which is why it attracts travelers. The warm climate, the Black Sea, and the possibility of visa-free entry make Abkhazia an attractive resort.

Urban public transport in Abkhazia is developed only in the capital of the state, the city of Sukhumi. Buses, trolleybuses and minibuses run here. Several bus routes operate in the resort towns of Pitsunda and Gagra.

In other cities and towns there is no public transport in its broad sense. Here you can find minibuses running between cities.

Travel costs in Abkhazia are quite cheap compared to travel prices in Russian cities. Travel by bus will be 5 rubles, travel by minibus will be 10 rubles. Trolleybuses run around Sukhumi with a fare of 3 rubles.

Electricity in the country

The voltage in the electrical network in Abkhazia is identical to Russia, and is 220 volts with an alternating current of 50 Hertz. On a trip to Abkhazia, it is advisable to take with you the necessary Appliances, such as hair dryer, mini iron, electric razor. Since they may be needed if a tourist is vacationing in an inexpensive hotel or in a rented apartment.

As a rule, in large and expensive hotels, all household appliances necessary for a comfortable stay are available in the rooms, or they can be borrowed at the reception.

Holidays in Abkhazia

August 28 – Nanhua. This religious holiday is dedicated to the Assumption Holy Mother of God, and in Abkhazian the holiday is called Nanhua. On this day, Christian Abkhazians hold a memorial meal in their homes. Christianity in Abkhazia is closely intertwined with paganism, therefore Christian shrines dedicated to the Mother of God and Christ are often associated with pagan objects, especially sacred stones and caves where pagan rituals were held.

October 25 - Kurban Bayram - the holiday of sacrifice. The Muslim holiday of sacrifice is celebrated annually in Abkhazia. The Abkhazians call this holiday in their own way – Kurbannykhua. This day throughout Abkhazia is not a working day. Christians do not celebrate this day, but Abkhaz Muslims begin to celebrate the Day of Sacrifice in the morning. Putting on a clean or new clothes, Muslims go to the mosque, where they spend several hours in prayer, after which they go to the sacrificial ceremony. After the ceremony, a sumptuous dinner is prepared and the meal is shared with all Muslim believers.

December 11 - International Mountain Day. Abkhazia thanks to its geographical location is inextricably linked with mountains, so International Mountain Day has undoubtedly taken root here. This day is not a magnificent holiday or a day off, but all mountain lovers travel around the surrounding area on December 11th. This day is often celebrated on a grand scale by rock climbers and speleologists, organizing competitions to conquer mountain peaks.

National clothes in Abkhazia

The national clothes of Abkhazia are part of the culture of this country. Each Abkhazian had three pairs of suits in his wardrobe, one for everyday wear, the second for festive ceremonies, and the third was necessary for all kinds of rituals, from religious holidays to funerals.

The traditional type of clothing for men was the Circassian jacket - a thick, long sheepskin coat with a belt. Festive variations of the Circassian coat included rich embroidery. Under the Circassian coat they wore a shirt with a tightly buttoned collar and trousers. Shoes made of morocco or leather were put on the feet, the calves were covered with gaiters, and knee pads were put on the knees. Traditionally men's suit complemented with a fur hat.

Each rider had a burka - a cape made of felt material. The burka had very high shoulders, which made it possible to make the image of the rider majestic.

Women's attire was more complex. Girls and women wore two petticoats (to make the outfit look more voluminous), a shirt, a dress, and a long or short caftan over everything. The girls were required to wear a belt, which was a real work of art. Either a headscarf or a fur hat, similar to a man's, was used as a headdress.

National cuisine in Abkhazia

The diet of every Abkhazian includes cereals, vegetables, fruits, a large number of dairy products, as well as meat. Abkhazians rely on dishes containing many vitamins and microelements. Thanks to healthy eating many Abkhazians bear the title of centenarians.

Traditionally, instead of bread in Abkhazia they eat mamalyga. A kind of mamalyga is a gruel made from corn grits, which is prepared with milk, nut butter or cheese.

Cornmeal plays big role in the national cuisine of Abkhazia. Flatbreads, pasties with cheese, and bread are made from it. Halva is also prepared from corn flour according to a special recipe.

Wheat flour is usually used for making pies, cheese pies, and also for making sweets.

Meat delicacies include young lamb or kid meat, roasted on a spit or boiled in milk.

Traditional everyday meat dishes are roasted chicken on a spit, on the stove, with adjika, mint, and nuts. Abkhazians love not only fried meat, but also boiled meat, generously flavoring it with various sauces, mainly adjika, and nut sauce. Mint is added as a piquant addition.

The most popular seasoning of national Abkhaz cuisine is adjika. It is a thick, paste-like sauce. Adjika is particularly spicy. Prepared from red pepper, garlic, dried and fresh spices.

Cheeses are very popular in Abkhazia. Wineskin cheese, mint cheese, fermented milk cheese and many other varieties that are consumed in large quantities.

The favorite drink of Abkhazia is sour milk - akhartsva. Typically, it is eaten with honey. Abkhazians claim that this drink is the best remedy quench thirst, especially during hot periods.

Abkhazians are not particularly fond of alcohol, especially Muslims. But among alcoholic drinks, Abkhazians prefer vodka called “cha-cha”, based on grapes.

Religion and customs of the country

In Abkhazia it changes from year to year National composition, even during the Soviet period, a large number of Russians lived in this country, now ethnic composition changed. Russians in Abkhazia this moment only 10% of the total population.

Abkhazians preach two main religions; the country is about 60% Christian and 16% Muslim. The rest are adherents of paganism, Judaism and other religions.

Abkhazians treat their culture, customs and traditions with trepidation. Shrines are venerated here, National holidays. Most of the buildings are architectural monuments, and mountain caves abound with relics.

Even being behind festive table, Abkhazians try not to talk loudly so that everyone can communicate comfortably. If a toast is made, then everyone present rises from their chairs.

Abkhaz men are loving, but they show respect for local women, who, according to tradition, are usually always with their husbands.

In Abkhazia, it is not customary to show emotions in public, kissing or hugging - here this is considered immoral behavior. Tenderness towards each other can only be shown in your own home.

Rules of conduct in Abkhazia

When visiting the resort of Abasia, tourists should be careful, as thefts often occur here. You should not leave wallets and bags even in restaurants on the table and go away. It is highly not recommended to use it in the evenings alcoholic drinks in the company of unfamiliar people, and even more so agreeing to go on a visit - this is the most common method of theft.

Vacationers should not show their emotions in public, hugging and kissing, as such actions will contradict the traditions of this country and others will comment disapprovingly on what is happening.

Women outside the resort area should not wear revealing outfits, as this will attract unwanted attention from Abkhaz men. Signs of attention can reach the point of obsession and even persecution.

Hotel staff should be treated kindly and not show arrogance or unreasonable dissatisfaction, as ultimately the guest may discover that his room was not cleaned at all.

In general, Abkhazians treat tourists extremely friendly and respectfully, often due to the fact that the financial component of the country depends on how much tourists spend on vacation. Although in most regions of Abkhazia tourists from Russia are very welcome.

Entertainment in Abkhazia

There is plenty of entertainment in Abkhazia. Despite the fact that, first of all, people come to Abkhazia for the picturesque places, mountains, fresh air, tourists come to relax on the coast. Beach holiday- the most common entertainment. The most famous resorts on the Black Sea coast are Gagra, Pitsunda, Sukhumi. On the beaches you can enjoy both leisurely and “lazy” relaxation and engage in active types of water recreation.

People also come to Abkhazia thanks to balneological resorts. Mineral waters and healing springs are a great way to combine business with pleasure. The mineral springs of Gagra attract those who want to improve their cardiovascular diseases, joint diseases, skin diseases, etc.

The Gudauta resort awaits tourists who want to improve their well-being. At this resort it is best to undergo the prevention of pulmonary diseases, diseases nervous system.

In the resort Sukhum you can take health courses in mud baths. Local therapeutic mud rich in vitamins and microelements that are so beneficial for health.

For entertainment, tourists can engage in active recreation, for example, mountain tourism. You can go to the mountains by hiking or on horseback. If you wish, you can master hang gliding, jump with a parachute and admire the beauty of nature from a bird's eye view.

Difference in time

If you are a resident of Moscow, then when going to the resort of Abkhazia, you will not have to experience the process of adapting to time zone changes. The time difference between Abkhazia and Moscow is 0. The time zones are absolutely identical, so tourists will not experience the slightest discomfort. For those tourists who do not remember what the difference is between Moscow and their hometown, we remind you:

Moscow – St. Petersburg 0 hours
Moscow - Novosibirsk +3 hours
Moscow – Ekaterinburg +2 hours
Moscow – Vladivostok +7 hours
Moscow – Krasnodar 0 hours
Moscow – Sochi 0 hours

Flight time to Abkhazia

Finding out how long to fly to Abkhazia turned out to be quite difficult. There are two airports in Abkhazia, in the cities of Sukhumi and Gudauta. The airport of the capital of Abkhazia is practically non-functional. There have been no international flights here since 1992. We can say that the airport is closed to visitors. And the airport in the city of Gudauta functions only on a national scale, providing helicopter flights to nearby villages.

The most comfortable mode of transport by which you can get to the resort of Abkhazia remains railway transport. Upon arrival in Moscow, the capital of Russia, you can buy a ticket for the Moscow – Sukhum train; the journey will take about 40 hours.