Ajara is one of the most beautiful parts of Georgia. It is the most south westerly point of the country, located near the border with Turkey. Its administrative center is Batumi. Batumi sea port is Georgia's main sea gate.
The region has an ancient culture and a rich history. In written Georgian sources Ajara, as the part of the ancient Georgian kingdom of Kartli, was first mentioned in the 3rd century BC. Christianity in Georgia began its way in Ajara after the arrival of Apostle Andrew. Among local landmarks there are ruins of an ancient Petra fortress founded by Byzantine Emperor Justinian (dating back to the 6th century), an ancient Gonio Fortress of the Roman period, bridges built in times of Tamar the Great (12th century) and other attractions.
In the south Ajara borders with Turkey, in the west and north-west it is swept by the Black Sea. Area of the region is 2.9 thousand square kilometers. Population is about 400 thousand people. The territory of Ajara is divided into two parts: seaside and mountainous one. The seaside part is characterized by a humid subtropical climate; mountainous zone is dryer. Latest is located in Lesser Caucasus Mountains; it is rising to 2,000-2,500 meters above sea level.
Today, Ajara is the fast-growing tourist region. Foreigners are attracted by the beautiful nature of Ajara, its rich culture, history and hospitality of local people. The proximity of the sea and mountains creates good opportunities for the development of different types of tourism. The tourist staying in the coastal part of the region need only 30 minutes to get to the mountainous part of Ajara to swim in one of local rivers or waterfalls, see its wildlife and visit the locals’ house.
Ajara is very green all year round. Fruit, citrus and other agricultural products are organic and have an excellent taste. A visit to Ajara is an opportunity to get acquainted with one of the most important and beautiful regions of Georgia.
