Gulebi

Geography and Location

The village of Gulebi is situated in the Keda Municipality of the Adjara Autonomous Republic. It is nestled on the southern slopes of the Meskheti Range, on the right bank of the Adjaristskali River. Located at an elevation of 490 meters above sea level, Gulebi is conveniently close to the municipal center, Keda, being only 1.5 kilometers away.

• Natural Resources: The village is known for its sulfur mineral water springs, which are valued for their potential health benefits.
• Landscape: Gulebi features the lush, mountainous terrain typical of the Adjara region, offering a serene environment and beautiful natural vistas.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

The most significant landmark in the village is the Gulebi Mosque, an outstanding example of 19th-century wooden architecture.

• Wooden Architecture: This two-story mosque is built entirely of timber and measures approximately 10x7 meters. It is renowned for its intricate artistic carvings and decorative ornaments, which are characteristic of the traditional wooden mosques found in Adjara.
• Craftsmanship: The interior features a beautifully decorated mihrab and minbar, adorned with "tree of life" motifs. These artistic details are attributed to the skilled craftsman Husein Kajaya.
• Old Cemetery: Adjacent to the mosque is an old cemetery containing 19th-century Ottoman tombstones with unique epigraphy and ornamental designs, reflecting the region's complex history.

Local Context and Economy

Historically, Gulebi has been an agricultural hub. During the Soviet era, the village was active in tobacco cultivation, fruit growing, viticulture, and tea production. Today, the village maintains its traditional Adjarian lifestyle and is becoming an interesting spot for cultural tourism, thanks to its proximity to Keda and its well-preserved historical monuments.