With its unique geography where the green and blue of the Black Sea meet, Artvin's charming district Hopa fascinates its visitors not only with its natural beauties but also with its deep-rooted history. Although large metropolises are not the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to "Ancient Cities", Hopa and its surroundings are home to a rich cultural heritage and many historical buildings dating back to ancient times. In this article, as the My Hometown platform, we invite you to discover the ancient secrets of Hopa.
Ancient Roots of Hopa: From Anaxoupê to the Kingdom of Colchis
Hopa's history dates back to B.C. It has deep roots dating back to the 3rd millennium BC. The ancient name of the district is known as Anaxoupê. This ancient name shows that Hopa has been an important settlement throughout history. The region was located within the borders of the legendary Kolhis (Kolcha) Kingdom in ancient times. The Kingdom of Colchis, which is the subject of the Golden Fleece legend, is one of Hopa's first important stops in history. B.C. Hopa, which came under the influence of the Persian, then Roman and Byzantine Empires starting from the 6th century, also came under the domination of Georgian kingdoms and principalities in the Middle Ages. This multi-layered history has enriched the cultural texture of Hopa.
Historical Stops of Hopa
1. Makriali (Noğedi) Church: A Legacy from the Middle Ages
Located close to the Kemalpaşa town of Hopa, adjacent to the Sarp Border Gate, Makriali Church is one of the most striking historical buildings of the region. This Orthodox church, which has survived from the Middle Ages to the present day, dates back to the 6th or 7th century. Although the exact construction date of the church is unknown, it is thought to date from the Middle Ages compared to other structures in the region. In fact, according to some rumors, the church was built on the grave of Hele in the legend of the Golden Fleece.
- ___ This event reveals the importance of the church in the political and religious life of the period.
- Architectural Features: Only traces remain from the murals of Makriali Church, a single-nave village church. It is thought that a tall building adjacent to the church on the seaside served as a lighthouse.
- Visit Tips: The church ruins are a unique stop for photography enthusiasts and history enthusiasts with its historical texture and surrounding natural beauties. It is easily accessible from Kemalpaşa center.
2. Ciha Castle: 2000 Years Old Lookout
Located on the Ciha Hill separating Hopa and Arhavi districts, Ciha Castle has a history of approximately 2000 years. This castle, which is rumored to have been built by the Genoese for surveillance purposes, is located at a point overlooking both the coastline and the interior with its strategic location.
- ___ The word "Ciha", meaning "castle" in Laz and Mingrelian, is one of the common place names in the region.
- ___ has been started. These works aim to preserve the historical value of the castle and pass it on to future generations.
- ___ The magnificent view of the coastline and valley extending from the summit to Batumi gives its visitors unforgettable moments.
3. Hopa Culture House and Museum: Door to the Past
Although it is not directly an ancient city, Hopa Culture House and Museum is an important stop for those who want to get to know Hopa's rich history and cultural heritage. This museum, created by restoring a registered mansion built in the early 20th century, has been in service since 2016.
- ___ There is a wide range of artifacts, from old hand tools to local clothes, from musical instruments to antique furniture.
- ___ It attracts attention with its covered cover.
- ___ Hopa is easily accessible thanks to its location in the center.
4. Orta Hopa Mosque and Traditional Hopa Houses
Other important structures reflecting the historical texture of Hopa include Orta Hopa Mosque___ Their houses are. Orta Hopa Mosque is one of the important religious and cultural heritages of the district with its hundreds of years of history. Old Hopa Houses, on the other hand, are structures prepared in accordance with the nature of the region, mostly single-storey and bearing the traces of a quiet village life. These structures are important details that shed light on Hopa's past.
Transportation and Accommodation Tips
The fastest way to reach Artvin Hopa is via Georgia Batumi Airport. Citizens of the Republic of Türkiye can travel to Batumi without a visa or passport (with a new generation chip ID card) and then reach Hopa by shuttle services. For those who want to come by road, it is 65 km away from Artvin city center and 9 km away from the nearest town, Arhavi. There are various hotel and hostel options for accommodation in Hopa. As My Hometown, we recommend that you have an experience intertwined with the unique nature and historical texture of Hopa when planning your trip.
Conclusion
Artvin Hopa is a paradise waiting to be discovered, with its rich history dating back to ancient times, its structures bearing the traces of different civilizations from the Colchis Kingdom to the Ottoman Empire, and its cultural heritage. Every corner of it is intertwined with history, from the mystical atmosphere of Makriali Church to the strategic location of Ciha Castle, Hopa Culture House and the ethnographic richness of the Museum. Go on this unique historical journey of Hopa with My Hometown and listen to the whispers of the past.
