Old photographs of Abkhazia

Recently, Metin Sonmez, editor at Abkhaz World, sent me some photos of Abkhazia.  Most are late 19th or early 20th century and are of Sukhum and of Abkhaz people.  I know most of the locations photographed in Sukhum and it really leaves a feeling of the continuity of life and family in Abkhaz.  I am sure many generations gathered in the same same places as their descendants do now.  Some of the individuals photographed were reputed to be of great age.  I recall an article in the National Geographic in the 1970's about people of the Caucasus living to 150 or even beyond.   I think later it was decided there was some Soviet hyperbole in the claims.  Still the photographs are fascinating.

There is also a second modern album of Abkhaz women in traditional garments.   Thanks to Metin for sharing both!

Comments

[Lisa]

There is a book on long living people of Abkhazia, 'Abkhasians: The Long Living People of the Caucasus'' written by Sula Benet. http://www.amazon.com/Abkhasians-Caucasus-studies-cultural-anthropology/dp/0030880408

I found this in Abkhaz World web site http://www.abkhazworld.com/abkhazia/people-a-culture/182-abkhazia-ancients-of-the-caucasus.html

Seems interesting story.