Nestled in the fertile Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of eastern Georgia, Mukhrani village boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Its name, derived from the Georgian word for “oak grove,” hints at its ancient connection to nature. The village’s strategic location has made it a contested territory throughout history, with various influential powers leaving their mark on its landscape.
Today, Mukhrani stands as the largest village in Mtskheta municipality, home to a diverse population with ethnic Georgian, Armenian, Ossetian, and German roots visible in its architecture and traditions. Several important cultural heritage sites tell the history of the area, like the Dzalisa archaeological site (second century BCE to eighth century CE) and the nineteenth-century Mukhrani fortress in the historic center of the village.
In an effort to sustain the cultural heritage of the area, the Center and the Foundation for Regional Economic Development of Mukhrani (FREDM) are collaborating on the Mukhrani Village Experience, a community-based tourism project. We combine research, documentation, and youth engagement to create immersive, hands-on tourism experiences to engage visitors in Mukhrani’s unique practices, such as traditional crafts, foodways, music, and dance.
By working closely with local researchers and community members, the project ensures that the village’s cultural heritage is preserved and that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably within the community.
