Artvin

Artvin is on the Turkish-Georgian border in the mountainous northwest corner of Turkey. Georgians, who have inhabited these areas since antiquity, managed to keep their identity even under Roman, Byzantine, Persian, Arab, and Turkish invasions. In 1220, the arrival of Mongols brought an end to Georgian domination in the region.

Surrounded by forests, the main interests for visitors are the 9th to 11th century Georgian Churches. The valleys around Artvin are famous for their honey, including the “deli bal” mentioned by Xenophon in the Anabasis. South of Artvin towards Yusufeli, there are a series of churches. Further south is Tortum Gorge and its lovely waterfall. Another attraction for those who like hiking, mountain climbing, and wild flowers is the Kackar Mountains near the village Camlihemsin west of Artvin.

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