Disveli (Mirtasheni) — A Story of Resilience in the Bolnisi Foothills

Disveli — An Adjarian Oasis in Kvemo Kartli

Disveli is a village in the Kvemo Kartli region, Bolnisi municipality. Located at an elevation of 570 meters above sea level, it is distinguished by its special history and human resilience. The village, historically known as Mirtasheni, has today become a new homeland for Adjarian ecomigrants.

History and Resilience

The modern history of Disveli is closely linked to the tragedy of 1989, when a landslide in the village of Tsablana, Khulo municipality (Upper Adjara), claimed 28 lives. Part of the surviving population was resettled in the Bolnisi district, in the former village of Mirtasheni. Despite initial difficulties, the Adjarians managed to start a new life here and revive the village, which was later renamed Disveli.

Architectural Heritage: Mirtasheni Church

An important historical monument is preserved on the territory of the village — the Mirtasheni Church, dating back to the 11th-13th centuries. It is a hall-type structure built of hewn stone. The temple is distinguished by its relief decor, depicting human figures and Asomtavruli inscriptions. Especially interesting is the image of the architect on a relief slab. Near the church stands a late medieval two-story tower, indicating the village's defensive past.

Nature and Geography

Disveli is built in the Bolnisi foothills, characterized by the mild climate and fertile lands of Kvemo Kartli. The village surroundings are surrounded by green hills and vast panoramas. The location at an altitude of 570 meters provides pleasant air and favorable conditions for agriculture.

Local Life and "Disveli" Cheese

Today, about 400 people live in the village, all of whom are ethnically Georgians (Adjarians). They brought Adjarian hospitality and hard work with them to Kvemo Kartli. Disveli is now famous for its dairy products. A women's cooperative and a cheese factory, created with the support of the European Union, operate here. Local Sulguni and Ricotta are already popular throughout Georgia, forming the basis of the village's economic strength.

Highlights:

• Mirtasheni Church (11th-13th centuries) — An ancient temple with relief images.
• Medieval Tower — A historical defensive structure.
• Adjarian Way of Life in Kvemo Kartli — Traditional cuisine and hospitality.
• Disveli Cheese Factory — A successful example of modern agriculture.

Disveli is a place where historical monuments and modern human stories meet, making it one of the most interesting points on the map of Bolnisi.