📖 About Zugdidi

Zugdidi is the largest city in western Georgia's Samegrelo region (historically known as Mingrelia). With approximately 42,000 residents, this city serves as the regional capital and cultural center of the Mingrelian people.

The city is known for the Dadiani Palace, once home to the ruling princes of Mingrelia, and its botanical garden. Located near the border with Abkhazia, Zugdidi has been affected by that conflict but remains a vibrant regional center. Zugdidi represents Mingrelian Georgia—distinctive culture, historic palaces, and western Georgian identity.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Agriculture produces tea, citrus, and hazelnuts in the subtropical climate. Trade serves the region. Border area economy is affected by Abkhazia situation. Tourism is growing with palace visitors. The economy is agricultural and service-based.

Mingrelian culture distinct within Georgia—Mingrelian language alongside Georgian. Georgian Orthodox Christianity is central. Hospitality is famous even by Georgian standards. Food features unique Mingrelian dishes like elarji and gebzhalia. The culture values family, tradition, and regional pride.

📜 History

Mingrelia was historically a principality within the Georgian cultural sphere. The Dadiani princes ruled from Zugdidi. Russian Imperial annexation came in 1867. The palace became a museum.

Soviet era brought development. The 1990s Abkhazia conflict displaced many to Zugdidi. Today Zugdidi thrives—Mingrelian capital, Dadiani palace, and western Georgia's cultural heart near troubled borders.