Our Culture
Abkhaz culture is rich in history and tradition, and most residents live in rural areas, often on large, self-sustaining family farms. Equestrian activities are important to the culture of Abkhazia. Riding is a popular activity, and horses often play a central role in festivals. Song, music, poetry and dance are also important to Abkhazian culture. Abkhazia has a rich collection of songs that are performed at weddings and other celebrations, such as holidays or big family gatherings. Abkhazia places great value on high and popular culture, boasting a number of drama and dance companies, art museums, music conservatories, and theatres for the performing arts.
Chess master Rusudan "Rusa" Goletiani; painters Gennady Pasko and Levars Butba; writers Bagrat Shinkuba and Fazil Iskander; and the philosopher Murat Yagan are some of the many prominent Abkhazians in the creative and cultural arts.
