Khala Jame

Khala Jame is a striking example of Adjara's wooden Islamic architecture, standing prominently in the village of Khala. Built by skilled local craftsmen during a period of transition in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the mosque represents a distinct era of woodworking in the Caucasus. Surrounded by the dense forests of the Mtirala National Park foothills, its dark timber exterior sharply contrasts with the green landscape, marking a vital religious and communal center for the local Georgian Muslim population.

Masterful Laz Woodworking

Unlike the stone masonry typical of eastern Georgian architecture, Khala Jame relies entirely on native timber. The structure features elaborate carvings executed by Laz master builders, known throughout the region for their exceptional carpentry skills. The building incorporates overlapping wooden panels and intricate fretwork along the balconies, specifically designed to withstand the heavy, humid climate of the Black Sea coast.

Architectural Form and Significance

Inside, the prayer hall is illuminated by rows of symmetrical windows, reflecting natural light off the polished, unpainted wooden interior. The mosque stands as an enduring record of Adjara's multi-religious identity, preserving the structural techniques passed down through generations of local artisans. Khala Jame functions not just as an active place of worship, but as an open museum of regional craftsmanship.