Ozurgeti, the capital of Georgia’s Guria region, is a city where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. Archaeological finds show that people have lived here since the Bronze Age, with sites like the Vakijvari workshop and Shemokmedi settlement revealing the area’s deep roots. Ozurgeti first appears in historical records in the 16th century, quickly rising as a cultural and economic center and serving as the residence of the Gurieli princes. The city’s prosperity is reflected in its medieval temples, fortresses, and the famed Ozurgeti treasure-270 silver coins discovered in the area.
During the late 19th century, Ozurgeti became a strategic hub, especially during the Russo-Turkish War (1877–78), and it was among the first cities in Georgia to have a legal printing press, established in 1891. The arrival of the railway in 1923 further connected Ozurgeti to the rest of the country, spurring growth and development. The city was renamed Makharadze in 1934 in honor of a local Bolshevik leader, but reverted to its original name in 1989.
Today, Ozurgeti is a vibrant municipality of around 15,000 people in the city and over 84,000 in the wider region. It is a regional hub for government, education, and culture, boasting theaters, museums, and libraries. The Ozurgeti History Museum, with over 5,000 artifacts, offers a fascinating journey through Georgia’s past, from ancient coins to Napoleonic relics. The city’s urban layout, shaped during the Soviet era, features terraced neighborhoods rising from lively markets to tranquil residential zones.
Ozurgeti’s economy is rooted in agriculture, with tea, citrus fruits, nuts, and corn as leading products. The food industry and small enterprises complement the city’s economic life, while tourism is on the rise, thanks to nearby Black Sea beaches, the mountain resort of Gomismta, and historical sites like the Shemokmedi and Likhauri churches. The city is also a center of education, with several schools, kindergartens, an art school, and a vocational college supporting local youth.
Modern Ozurgeti is a city of contrasts-lush valleys and mountain peaks, ancient ruins and Soviet architecture, tradition and innovation. Whether you’re exploring its historical monuments, enjoying local cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Ozurgeti offers a unique window into Georgia’s rich heritage and dynamic present.