Anacopia Fortress

ანაკოფიის ციხე

The ruined hilltop stronghold above New Athos that was once capital of the Abkhazian kingdom. Climbing to its ancient walls and watchtower rewards visitors with panoramic views over the coast and mountains.

Things to do

• Climb to the upper fortress — Hike the stone path up Iverian Mountain to reach the well-preserved medieval citadel that once served as the Abkhazian kingdom's capital.
• Ascend the watchtower — Climb the restored main tower of the upper fortress for the highest vantage point over the ruins and surrounding terrain.
• See the inexhaustible well — Visit the mysterious ancient cistern inside the citadel whose water level reputedly never drops, fed by condensation and rainfall.
• Enjoy panoramic coastal views — Take in sweeping vistas over New Athos, the Black Sea coastline, and the Caucasus foothills from the fortress walls.
• Explore the ruined chapel — Examine the remains of the medieval church within the fortress walls, decorated with carved stone reliefs.
• Walk down to New Athos Monastery — Combine the fortress visit with the nearby 19th-century Orthodox monastery complex at the base of the mountain.
• Visit New Athos Cave — Descend into the vast karst cavern system a short distance away, one of Abkhazia's most famous natural attractions.

Food to try

• Abkhazian abundant sauce (adjika) — Sample the fiery red pepper and garlic paste that accompanies nearly every local meal and is a cornerstone of Abkhazian cuisine.
• Mamaliga (abista) — Try the thick unsalted cornmeal porridge served hot, often with suluguni cheese melted into it.
• Akwardzhdzhandyr — Look for the traditional cheese-filled mamaliga where soft cheese is stirred through the cornmeal for a rich texture.
• Suluguni cheese — Taste the brined, stringy local cheese eaten fresh, fried, or baked into breads.
• Grilled meats (mtsvadi) — Enjoy skewered pork or beef grilled over open coals, a staple at roadside cafes near New Athos.
• Homemade wine and chacha — Try locally produced wine or the strong grape spirit chacha offered at family-run eateries.

Local customs & good to know

• Wear sturdy footwear — The climb to the fortress is steep and the ancient stone paths are uneven, so hiking shoes are essential.
• Bring cash in rubles — Abkhazia uses the Russian ruble and card payment is rarely available, so carry cash for entry fees and food.
• Understand the disputed status — Abkhazia is internationally recognized as part of Georgia but is de facto separatist, and entry via Russia can bar future entry to Georgia proper.
• Respect local hospitality customs — Guests are honored in Abkhazian culture, so accepting offered food or a toast is a sign of good manners.

Nearby

• New Athos — 1 km
• New Athos Monastery — 1 km
• Sukhumi — 19 km
• Pitsunda — 40 km