Photos

This is Ushguli, located in the Svaneti region of the Georgian Caucasus. It is claimed to be the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe, if indeed, Georgia is in Europe.

Behind lies Mt. Shkhara, the highes in Georgia and 3rd highest in the Caucasus at 5,201 meters.

The village is domated by typical Svan defensive towers, where highlanders would retreat at times of invasion, and where important religious relics would be sent from the lowlands for safety at similar times. Ushguli is a UNESCO World Heritage sight, for its towers and unique atmosphere.

Walking the streets is a special experience. The streets are entirely muddy, with crumbling medieval building and pigs roaming at will, it gives a good idea of what life was like for much of Europe 500 years ago (despite the odd satelite dish!).