Sukhum

Sukhum is the capital and largest city of the Abkhazia region in northwestern Georgia. It is situated on the Black Sea coast, approximately 29 km (18 miles) southwest of the city of Ochamchire, which is the administrative center of the Gali District. Sukhum is a port city and an important economic and cultural center in the region.

The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting that it was inhabited by the ancient Greeks. In the 13th century, Sukhum became a significant trading center, exchanging goods with the Republic of Genoa and other trading nations. The city fell under the control of the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, and later came under the rule of the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti (now part of modern-day Georgia) and the Russian Empire. Following the Russian Revolution, Sukhum became a Soviet city and was part of the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic.

In the early 20th century, Sukhum underwent significant urban development, with the construction of new infrastructure, including a port, a railway, and a university. Today, the city has a population of over 70,000 people and is home to a mix of ethnic groups, including Abkhaz, Georgian, and Russian.

The city is known for its picturesque coastline, scenic views, and cultural landmarks, such as the St. Simen Museum and the Dolphinarium. Sukhum's economy is based on fishing, tourism, and trade, with the city serving as a major commercial hub for the Abkhazia region.