Samegrelo

Samegrelo is located in the west of Georgia on the Kolkheti lowland. The territory of Samegrelo is very rich in flora and is distinguished by its unique endemic species. In Samegrelo there is an important port city Poti which ancient name is Phasis and has a centuries-old history. Samegrelo, more precisely the ancient Kolkheti Kingdom, is connected with the myth of Argonauts. Myth is a sample of Georgian-Greek common culture. Mekvle tradition is one of the most popular traditions preserved in Samegrelo. On the next day of the New Year, Mekvle visits the family with a full basket and chichilaki made of nut wood. Megrelian cuisine is distinguished with spicy dishes, Megrelian adjika and satsebeli (sauce) are very popular. The most famous Megrelian dish is elarji which is made of sulguni cheese, gebjalia and Megrelian khachapuri are also very popular too. Samegrelo is rich in caves, which are a real paradise for speleologists and athletes. It is noteworthy that in Samegrelo thereis the Tabovarchkhili Lake that is located at an altitude of 2650 meters. Amongst the temples and other historical monuments in the region there is the beautiful Dadiani Palace, located in Zugdidi, the main city of Samegrelo.