Caucasus Highlights + History

The Caucasus’ are a region located at the border of Europe and Asia, situated between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea and occupied by Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia. After the collapse of the Russian Empire, the latter of these three countries became part of the short-lived Trans-Caucasian Democratic Federative Republic. The republic dissolved in May 1918, and Azerbaijan declared independence, which lasted until the Bolshevik Red Army invaded it in April 1920. Georgia and Armenia suffered the same fate and eventually became part of the Soviet Union. With the demise of the Soviet Union, they all have become independent Republics again.

Armenia

Armenia is located in the Southern Caucasus Mountains bordered by Georgia to the north and Azerbaijan to the east. The land is mostly  echmiadzin1mountainous, with fast flowing rivers, and few forests. Armenia was the first country in the world to officially adopt Christianity in 301 AD. As a result, it has some of the most beautiful centuries-old churches and gorgeous monasteries in dramatically scenic settings in the world. Throughout most of Armenia’s long history, it has been invaded by a succession of empire. Under constant threat of domination by foreign forces, Armenia became both cosmopolitan as well as fierce protectors of their culture and tradition. Throughout history, the people suffered greatly in large numbers at the hands of some of its neighbors.

In Armenia, the summers are dry and sunny lasting from June to mid-September. Springs are short with the evening breezes blowing down the mountains. While autumns have vibrant and colorful foliage surrounding you while you indulge on the Armenian cuisine offered. Armenian cuisine includes reflects the history and geography where Armenians have lived, reflecting the traditional crops and animals grown and raised in Armenian populated areas. Lamb, eggplant, lavash (bread), and herbs are staples in Armenian cuisine.

Georgia

Georgia, a country situated between Europe and Asia, is famous for its Black Sea beaches and its sprawling cave monastery dating back to the 12th georgia-1century. The capital, Tbilisi, is known for the diverse architecture and mazelike, cobblestone streets of its old town. Some favorite dishes of Georgian cuisine are comfort foods like khachapuri (cheese-stuffed bread) and matsoni (sour yogurt).

Within the country of Georgia are the most mysterious mountain regions like a fairy tale come to life. Georgia is a country the size of Switzerland and is the home of the highest mountains in Europe. Enjoy truly fabulous walks, the most indigenous grape varieties in the world (with a wine culture to accompany), and fantastic architecture, exemplified by imposing stone watch towers, carved wooden balconies, richly frescoed churches, and beautiful masterpieces from the Art Nouveau period.

This country prides itself on excellent cuisine; delicious wine, stunning mountains, exquisite churches, hospitable locals and rich and varied history make it a perfect adventure travel location.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, the nation and former Soviet republic, is surrounded by the Caspian Sea and Caucasus Mountains and once a major stop on the Great Silk azer-1Route. Covering Iran’s mountainous Northwest, provinces in Azerbaijan are steeped in history, conflicts and culture. A quarter of the country’s World Heritage treasures lie within its boundaries, yet its vast landscapes and ancient sites are relatively not seen by tourists.

The summers of Azerbaijan are about 4 to 5 months long and very hot with more of a mild winter. Within Baku lies the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a royal retreat dating to the 15th century. The agriculture in Azerbaijan developed more so in the later part of the 20th century. Grapes are able to be grown here due to the favorable climate used for making wine, which almost all of it is exported. Fishers from Azerbaijani use the Caspian Sea for Sturgeon used to make caviar. This particular fish, however, is being harvested too much that the stock is being depleted.
With the breathtaking nature beauty and deeply hospitable people throughout these countries make the South Caucasus region a thrilling, offbeat discovery.

Come and see for yourself!