Vernacular architecture in Chazhashi settlement, Upper Svaneti, Georgia

Abstract

The Ushguli territory is located in the Upper Svaneti region, in Georgia. Its occupation is particularly influenced by the Enguri River course. The river Enguri is born in the Caucasian mountain chain, formed by the glaciers of the Shkhara peak, the Georgian highest point (5068m). From a geographical perspective, the high valley conformed by the Engury stream constitutes the fundamental axis for the implantation of the four historical settlements that are part of Usghuli area, listed as World Heritage, since 1996 (UNESCO-WHC, 1996). [...]