Nestled in the mountainous terrain of the Adjara Autonomous Republic, Shuakhevi Municipality offers a glimpse into the authentic rural life and stunning natural beauty of Georgia’s highlands. Situated in the upper reaches of the Acharistsqali river valley, Shuakhevi is a region defined by its dramatic landscapes and rich local culture.
Overview
Shuakhevi Municipality is an administrative district located in the central part of mountainous Adjara. It is characterized by its diverse topography, encompassing deep river valleys and significant mountain ranges. The municipality is primarily rural, with scattered villages and a central administrative townlet. Shuakhevi is known for its traditional agricultural practices, unique local architecture, and the warm hospitality of its residents.
Geographical Location
Shuakhevi Municipality is situated in the heart of Adjara. It shares borders with Keda Municipality to the west, Khelvachauri and Kobuleti municipalities to the northwest, Khulo Municipality to the east, and municipalities from the Guria and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions to the north and northeast. The municipality’s landscape is dominated by the Meskheti and Shavsheti mountain ranges. The principal river is the Acharistsqali, which flows through the main valley, joined by tributaries like the Chirukhistskali. The elevation varies considerably throughout the municipality, contributing to a range of microclimates, though it generally experiences less humidity compared to Adjara’s coastal areas.
History
The history of Shuakhevi, like much of mountainous Adjara, is linked to its strategic location and the historical influences that have shaped the wider region. Archaeological findings and historical monuments scattered throughout the municipality, such as remnants of medieval fortresses and bridges, indicate that the area has been inhabited for centuries and played a role in the historical development of Adjara. The region was historically part of various Georgian political entities and experienced periods of Ottoman influence. Following the incorporation of Adjara into the Russian Empire and later becoming part of Soviet Georgia, Shuakhevi was established as a distinct administrative district. The town of Shuakhevi received urban-type settlement (daba) status in the Soviet era. The history of the local population is also marked by unique cultural and religious traditions, reflecting the intermingling of influences over time.
Population
According to the 2014 census, the population of Shuakhevi Municipality was 15,044. More recent estimates from 2020 place the population around 15,039, indicating a relatively stable population size in recent years. The population is predominantly rural, residing in the townlet of Shuakhevi and numerous villages spread across the municipality’s valleys and mountain slopes. The ethnic composition is overwhelmingly Georgian. The religious makeup of the population includes both Muslim Georgians and Georgian Orthodox Christians, reflecting the historical religious dynamics of Adjara’s highlands.
Politics
The political structure of Shuakhevi Municipality is based on the system of local self-governance in Georgia. The representative body is the Municipal Assembly (Sakrebulo), which is elected by the residents of the municipality. The executive head of the local government is the Mayor, also elected through direct vote. These local government bodies are responsible for the administration of the municipality, including the implementation of local policies, management of the local budget, and provision of public services to the population within their administrative boundaries, operating within the legal framework of Georgia and the Adjara Autonomous Republic.
Administrative Divisions
Shuakhevi Municipality is administratively divided into one townlet (daba), which is Shuakhevi, and several administrative units known as communities (temi). These communities encompass a total of 67 villages (sopeli). This administrative breakdown facilitates the local governance and organization of the municipality’s population and territory, particularly given the dispersed nature of settlements in its mountainous landscape.
