Exploring Georgia Countryside

We went exploring with our host teachers today. We went to a large dam that was built by the Soviet Union in the 1960's.

This is a picture of our Georgian friends here. They are very kind and generous people.  This picture was taken at a fortress in Rukhi.  It stands on the bank of the Enguri River as you cross over from Abkhazia.  It was built by Levan Dadiani II in 1636, and withstood every seige for nearly 100 years. The Turks captured the fortress in 1725.  In 1769 the Turks fled the forts at Rukhi. There are a lot of wandering cows here and trash is everywhere. Although the Georgians love the "Nature" here, many do not worry about pollution, or  protecting  their natural resources.

I am surprised to see so many palm trees growing in Zugdidi. Today is a rainy day and it is about 45F. We also went to the Dadiana Palace in Zugdidi and it was magnificent. Unfortunately I could only take pictures in one small part of the castle. In the 17th Century, the city became the residence of the Dadiani family, which had ruled Samegrelo since the 12th century, when it was known as Odishi. 

Because of the war in Abkhazia, the city has many thousands of refugees. Zugdidi is close to the border crossing with Abkhazia, so the people here feel the effects of the conflict closely. 

Note: Unfortunately my iPad is not uploading all the pictures. I will try to upload them later. The wifi is spotty here at times, just like at school! Miss you all!!!!!