Gonio (settlement)

Gonio is a settlement located in Adjara, Georgia, approximately 15 kilometers south of Batumi, near the Turkish border. It is primarily known for the Gonio Fortress, an ancient Roman fortification that is a popular tourist attraction.

The settlement's history is intertwined with the history of the fortress. Archaeological evidence suggests that the site was inhabited long before the Roman period, possibly as early as the 8th century BC. The Romans established a fortified settlement here in the 1st century AD, which was strategically important for controlling the Black Sea coast and the access routes to the interior of the Caucasus.

Over the centuries, Gonio has been under the control of various powers, including the Byzantines, Ottomans, and Russians. Each period has left its mark on the fortress and the surrounding settlement.

Today, Gonio is a small but growing settlement, largely dependent on tourism related to the fortress. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls and towers of the fortress, as well as the small museum located inside. The surrounding area offers beaches and other recreational opportunities. The settlement has basic tourist infrastructure, including guesthouses and restaurants.

While the main attraction is undoubtedly the Gonio Fortress, the settlement itself offers a glimpse into contemporary Georgian life in a region with a rich and complex history. The local population is engaged in tourism and small-scale agriculture. The settlement is easily accessible from Batumi via public transportation and taxis.