Nestled on the southern slopes of the towering Great Caucasus range, Becho is a mesmerizing village located in the historic region of Upper Svaneti. This enchanting locale is part of a community that strings together thirteen quaint villages along the picturesque Dolra Valley, just west of Mestia. Becho captivates visitors with its lush meadows, snow-capped peaks, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that echoes through the ages.
Dominating the skyline near Becho is the spectacular, twin-peaked Mount Ushba, which soars to an elevation of 4,700 meters (15,420 feet). Renowned as Georgia's toughest and most perilous mountaineering challenge, Ushba's sharp summits are often cloaked in swirling mists and glistening glaciers. From Becho, the pointed pinnacle of this legendary mountain is a sight to behold, beckoning climbers and adventurers from around the globe.
Once upon a time, Becho was the familial stronghold of the Georgian princes Dadeshkeliani. A magnificent 10-story tower — an architectural marvel of its era — once graced the landscape, only to be demolished by its owners in 1921. The enigmatic ruins of this edifice still linger near the village, whispering tales of nobility and bygone glory. Remarkably, descendants of the Dadeshkeliani lineage continue to reside in the region, preserving the noble legacy and traditions of their ancestors.
Following Georgia's incorporation into the Russian Empire, Becho was declared the residence of a local official in the 1850s who governed Svaneti, reporting directly to the district chief of Lechgumsky District. By the close of the 19th century, the village flourished with one established church, 29 mills, and 89 households. According to the 1897 census, the population had swelled to 704 inhabitants, a testament to its growing significance in the region.
Tourism in Svaneti likely found its genesis in Becho. The Becho Pass provided an accessible route for tourists and climbers journeying from Russia into Svaneti, making it a hub of early exploration and cultural exchange. Many mountaineers, drawn by the allure of conquering Ushba, would find respite in Becho, soaking in its serene ambiance before their daring ascents. Moreover, a path veers right of Ushba leading to the Guli Pass, which unfolds into the Baksan Gorge of the North Caucasus — further cementing Becho's role as a crossroads of adventure and discovery.
In Becho, history and nature entwine effortlessly. The echoes of the past resonate amidst the stunning vistas, and every winding trail offers a new story waiting to be discovered. Whether you're an avid climber, a history buff, or a traveler seeking the road less taken, Becho invites you to become part of its enduring narrative.
