The Machakhela Historical and Ethnographic Museum

The journey to the Machakhela Historical and Ethnographic Museum rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding gorge—this is the highest point along the region’s tourist route. Along the way, there is a particularly well-positioned viewing platform, perfect for capturing stunning photographs or simply pausing to take in the majesty of the landscape.

The museum itself is housed in a former mosque, where the artistry within has been remarkably preserved. Intricate patterns, balconies, window frames, and spiraling geometric motifs reveal craftsmanship of exceptional precision and skill. For over 350 years, Machakhela lived under Ottoman rule, and during that time, many locals were forced to adopt a new religion. Yet, despite this, the people of the valley quietly and lovingly passed down their Christian traditions and cultural heritage from generation to generation. Even within the ornamentation of the mosque, one can still discern cleverly hidden symbols of their faith—grapevines, wine pitchers, and crosses subtly interwoven into the decorative patterns.

Although Machakhela was among the earliest parts of Adjara to fall to the Ottomans, it was also the region where resistance to Islam proved most fervent. Hidden throughout the mountains and in private gardens are numerous well-concealed underground chambers, once used for clandestine prayer by the Christian faithful. Remarkably, Machakhela remains the only district in Adjara today without a single functioning mosque.

One of the museum’s interior walls retains the original paint, and though exposed for nearly two centuries to direct sunlight through nearby windows, its color remains vivid and unfaded—a silent testament to the building’s resilience. Inside, the museum introduces visitors to the cultural legacy of Machakhela through its traditional household items, details of local architecture, everyday tools, elements of dowries, and the names of the first and last masters who crafted the famous Machakhela flintlock rifles. The original workbench used by these artisans is preserved on the museum’s second floor.

Be advised: the museum caretaker speaks little Russian and no English. Therefore, don’t expect guided explanations or interpretive plaques. You may find yourself quietly admiring the exhibits without much context—unless you’re accompanied by a guide, driver, or local acquaintance who can translate the caretaker’s stories from Georgian.

Additionally, be aware that the caretaker is not always present. Upon arrival, you may find the museum doors closed. Entrance fee: 5 GEL.