Zugdidi

Zugdidi is a municipality located in Samegrelo - Zemo Svaneti. Its territory has been inhabited since ancient times. There are many settlements dating from the Early Bronze Age (3rd millennium BC) to the ancient period (VI BC - IV century BC). During the Hellenistic period, a significant trade route was running through the territory of modern Zugdidi municipality and the transportation of trade goods was carried to the Hellenistic world. In the written sources Zugdidi first mentions monk Egnatashvili in 1572. According to scientists, Zugdidi, Zurgdidi, Zugidi - means a big hill in Megrelian. This was called the hill, which was later called Mantskhvarkarish Suki (the hill of the Savior's Door), the name of which was later adopted by the city. Zugdidi City, which is present-day administrative centre of Zugdidi, was an important city in ancient Georgia. During the reign of Levan II Dadiani, the Odishi principality was the strongest among the kingdoms of western Georgia. Zugdidi, as the capital of this principality, has become a very important city. Zugdidi municipality with ancient history is distinguished by its beautiful nature and important cultural monuments. Here you will find ancient settlements, historic fortresses and medieval temples. The most famous sightseeing of Zugdidi is the Dadiani Palace, which impresses the visitor with the architecture and exhibits. There is a botanical garden around the palace, which is cultivated by the Dadians and where many species of plants grow, among them are: six species of Magnolia, different types of Oak, Cedar of Atlas and Himalayas, Canary Poplar, Relicts and Endemic plants imported from Asia, including India, Japan, the Mediterranean, America and other places.

Geography and Climate

Zugdidi municipality is located in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region of central part of western Georgia. Its administrative centre is the city of Zugdidi. The western boundary of the municipality follows the Black Sea coast, in the northwest it is bordered by the administrative line of Abkhazia, in the north and northeast by Tsalenjikha, in the east by Chkhorotsku and in the south by Khobi municipalities.The municipality holds the Odishi lowland, the Odishi plateau and the mountainous zone of Urta. The landscape of Zugdidi is divided as follows: swampy lowland, floodplains, low lowland, hilly foothill and karst hillock. There are many rivers, swamps, small lakes and springs in the region,which played an important role in the local agricultural and communication relations. The main river is Enguri. In addition to the Enguri, Zugdidi territory is crossed by rivers: Jumi, Chkhoushi, Chanistskali, Rukhi and others. The whole territory of Zugdidi municipality is located in humid subtropical climate region, the lowland and the hilly strip are characterized by a humid warm climate, with snowless winters and hot summers. The proximity of the Black Sea has a strong influence on the nature of the climate. The average January temperature in the lowlands is 6 - 7 ° C, and July - 22 ° C.

What to see

Zugdidi is a region with an ancient culture and rich in sights. Here you will find the remains of pre-Christian civilizations, fortresses, interesting temples. The Dadiani Palace in Zugdidi is noteworthy, where archaeological and ethnographic material and samples of national and European cultural heritage from this area are presented. The museum kept about 50,000 exhibits. The beautiful botanical garden around the palace is very beautiful, with a variety of plants and is perfect for a walk and relaxation. The district covers part of Kolkheti National Park. In Zugdidi you can relax in the Tsaishi Balneological Resort, as well as in Anaklia seaside resort with the sparkling beaches, positive emotions, colors and the sun.

Nature

• Kolkheti National Park
• Zugdidi Botanical Garden

Cultural Monuments

• Dadiani Palace
• Kortskheli Monastery of the Mother of God
• Tsaishi Cathedral
• Koki Church
• Rukhi Fortress
• Anaklia Fortress

Resorts

• Tsaishi
• Anaklia