Samegrelo

Samegrelo, also known as Mingrelia in English, is a historic and geographic region in western Georgia along the Black Sea coast. It lies inland from the Kolkheti Lowland and up into the foothills of the Western Caucasus, and today largely corresponds to the western part of the administrative region of Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti. The region’s major urban center is Zugdidi.

Geography and climate

The landscape includes lowland plains near the sea and forested hilly terrain inland. The Enguri and other rivers flow through the area. The climate is humid subtropical, with mild winters and warm summers, creating favorable conditions for subtropical crops and diverse agriculture.

People and language

Samegrelo is home to Mingrelians, who speak Mingrelian, a Kartvelian language closely related to Georgian. Most Mingrelians are bilingual in Georgian, and the region is noted for its distinct linguistic and cultural traditions within Georgia.

History

The area forms part of the ancient kingdom of Colchis and developed as the medieval Principality of Mingrelia under the Dadiani family. In the 19th century it integrated into the Russian Empire and, in the modern era, became part of the Georgian state. Its historical and cultural heritage remains influential in contemporary Georgia.

Administration and economy

In contemporary Georgia, Samegrelo constitutes the western sector of the administrative region of Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, with Zugdidi as its administrative center. The economy is rooted in agriculture and forestry, with subtropical crops such as citrus and, historically, tea cultivated in the region. Fishing along the coast and growing tourism, including cultural and natural sites, contribute to the economy.

Culture and landmarks

The region preserves distinctive Mingrelian cuisine, music, and traditions. Notable sites include the Dadiani Palace in Zugdidi and various historical towns and countryside landscapes that reflect its coastal and mountainous geography.