Village
Drbo — A Hidden Gem of Upper Imereti and the Abashidze Legacy
Located in the scenic Qvirila River valley, the village of Drbo is a small yet historically significant settlement in the Sachkhere Municipality, home to 16th-century ruins and untouched nature.
Geography and Location
The village of Drbo is situated in a picturesque corner of Upper Imereti, within the Sachkhere Municipality. Perched on the right bank of the Qvirila River at an elevation of 680 meters, it offers a serene escape into the Georgian countryside. A 12-kilometer road connects the village to the town of Sachkhere, winding through dense forests and rolling hills characteristic of the region. As part of the Chala administrative unit, Drbo serves as a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
History and the Abashidze Heritage
Drbo's history is intimately tied to the Abashidze family, one of the most prominent noble houses of Imereti. The village's historical identity is anchored in the early 16th century, a period when it served as a notable settlement in medieval Georgia. Local lore and epigraphic monuments tell stories of devotion and family bonds, most poignantly reflected in the village's primary architectural landmark.
The Bethlehem Mother of God Church
Overlooking the village from a nearby hilltop stands the Bethlehem Mother of God Church, also known locally as the All Saints Church. According to a unique Asomtavruli inscription found above the western entrance, the church was commissioned in 1510 by Abash Abashidze in memory of his beloved wife, Keklutsa, the daughter of the Chijavadze family.
The church is a single-nave structure with a flattened apse. Although it is currently in a state of ruin—with its vaulted ceiling collapsed and much of its exterior facing lost—it remains a majestic example of 16th-century Georgian ecclesiastical architecture. The view of the Qvirila valley from the church ruins is truly breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the timeless beauty of the Imeretian landscape.
Nature and Local Life
The natural environment of Drbo is classically Imeretian, featuring a moderately humid climate, lush oak and hornbeam forests, and the constant melody of the Qvirila River. The fertile soil supports traditional agriculture, which remains the backbone of the local economy. While the village is now home to only about 40 residents, the spirit of Imeretian hospitality remains as vibrant as ever.
Life in Drbo moves at a gentle, unhurried pace. Villagers are primarily engaged in viticulture and livestock farming. Autumn is a particularly enchanting time in Drbo, as the forests transform into a kaleidoscope of colors and the community prepares for the annual grape harvest (Rtveli). Drbo is a place where time seems to have stood still, offering a rare and charming contrast to the fast-paced modern world.
Quick Facts
- Population: 40
- Elevation: 680 meters
- Main Landmark: Bethlehem Mother of God Church (1510)
Transfers
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