Mestia

History of Mestia

For centuries Mestia was the main community of Upper Svaneti — a high mountain region where the Svans lived with their own language and customs. Isolation preserved medieval churches, icons and manuscripts here.

Svan towers were built mostly in the 9th–12th centuries: a family lived in a machubi house and took refuge in the tower from raids and blood feuds. Mestia received the status of an urban-type settlement in 1968.

What to see

• Svan towers in the old quarters — some are open to visitors.
• Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography — one of the best collections of medieval icons and manuscripts in Georgia.
• Caucasus views — twin-peaked Ushba (4710 m) and Tetnuldi.

Best time to visit

The best period is June–September: roads and passes are open and flights run more often. July–August is peak season and guesthouses fill up. October is beautiful, but the road to Ushguli may close after the first snow. In winter Mestia works as a ski resort (Hatsvali and Tetnuldi).

How to get there

• By car: about 450 km, 8–9 hours via Zugdidi on a mountain road.
• By plane: from Tbilisi to Queen Tamar Airport — about an hour; flights depend on the weather.
• On a tour: details — in the article about Svaneti.

Tips and safety

• Plan at least two nights: a day for Mestia and a day for Ushguli.
• Mountain weather changes quickly — bring warm and waterproof clothes even in summer.
• The peaks are best seen in the morning; after lunch they are often covered by clouds.
• The main risk is mountain roads with hairpin bends and drop-offs; with an experienced driver it is safe.
• If you fly, leave a buffer of 2–3 days in case the flight is cancelled.