Carved into the southern slope of the Makratela ridge, the village of Dochu sits poised like a crown atop the Tusheti Protected Areas in the Gometsari gorge. Situated at a breathtaking 2050 meters (approximately 6725 feet) above sea level and a good 102 kilometers (roughly 63 miles) from Akhmeta, this remarkable hamlet is steeped in the rich tapestry of Tusheti's historical narrative.
Embedded in the heart of the Chaghma community in Georgia's eastern Kakheti Region, Dochu proudly wears its cultural heritage status, a prestigious recognition bestowed in 2016 by the National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation of Georgia. Within this intimate village, six authentic monuments stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, echoing the whispers of a bygone era in their stone walls.
The architectural landscape of Dochu is punctuated by striking three-story houses, their abundance of balconies reaching out like open arms to the vast skies above. The village is beautifully seated on a rock known as Kim, earning Dochu the moniker of the "village of warriors" sprouting from the peak.
The people of Dochu are as extraordinary as the land they call home. In days of old, they were the sentinels, the first to spot the enemy from the peak and to confront them. They would either triumph or fall, protecting those behind them. This courageous spirit was instilled in them from a young age. As children, they were tied to wooden poles to keep them grounded and safe. Once they could walk, they were taught to wield a sword. A body adorned with bruises was a badge of honor, symbolizing a man's bravery and resilience.
Yet Dochu, while deeply rooted in its past, is not trapped by it. It's a village in the throes of rebirth. As of 2002, the village was nearly deserted with only a single resident. Today, a handful of families have returned, their homes being lovingly restored and reconstructed. A guesthouse in the heart of the village now welcomes weary travelers, offering them a chance to rest and immerse themselves in Dochu's unique charm.
The ruins and fortress of Dochu, stark reminders of a bygone era, cast an imposing silhouette against the Georgian sky, leaving a profound impression on those fortunate enough to visit. The sight of Dochu, perched high above the Tusheti Alazani and Priqiti Alazani, is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people and the timeless allure of Tusheti's cultural heritage.
