Sokhumi Botanical Garden

Sokhumi, Georgia

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The Sokhumi Botanical Garden, also known as Sukhumi Botanical Garden, is one of the oldest and most beautiful botanical gardens in the Caucasus region, located in the picturesque city of Sokhumi (Sukhumi), the capital of Abkhazia in Georgia.

Founded in 1840 as the Sukhum-Kale Military-Botanical Garden by Nikolai Rayevsky, the head of the Russian Black Sea fortification line, the garden was established to introduce new plants to the region, particularly tea and citrus fruits. The garden spans approximately 30 to 60 hectares and houses an impressive collection of more than 4,500 to 5,000 plant species from all over the world, including 1,200 tropical species, with rare plants brought from North America, Southeast Asia, and Australia. 

The garden features five sections including Flora, Introduction, Floriculture, Dendrology, and Plant Protection, with themed areas reflecting different ecosystems such as subtropical and Mediterranean gardens, sun-dappled bamboo-lined avenues, a giant 250-year-old linden tree, desert succulents, pools, hiking trails, and recreation areas.

Despite being ravaged by Turkish forces during the Russo-Turkish wars in 1853-55 and 1877-78, and suffering greatly during the Georgian-Abkhazian War of 1992-1993, the garden was restored starting in 1894 and continues today as a research institute of botany. It is considered one of the most popular sights and peaceful places in Sokhumi, offering a serene atmosphere filled with birdsong and lush greenery, making it a perfect destination for family walks, photo sessions, birdwatching, and escaping the city bustle.