The wooden mosques of Ajara region, which are unique examples of the Georgian Islamic architecture,
have attracted the attention of many researchers due to their high cultural value. The creation of the wooden
mosques in Ajara was influenced by the rules and laws of the Islamic religion, the possible influences of
the Ottoman culture, the landscape and weather of the region and, most importantly, the connection with
the local folk architecture, which played a significant role in the formation of their architectural appearance.
There are many different opinions about the link between the wooden architecture of Ajara and the wider
Georgian culture. Some scholars to not accept to classify the mosques in Ajara as belonging to the Georgian
Islamic heritage. But from a different perspective, the Ajarian wooden mosque, with its architecture and
artistic styles, is connected with the local vernacular architecture and influenced by the constructive and
stylistic features of the wooden oda-houses of Western Georgia, making it an integral part of Georgian
cultural heritage.
The wooden mosques of Ajara hold great significance as religious buildings for Georgian Muslims and as
important architectural monuments of Georgian heritage. They also play a crucial role in preserving the
culture and memory of the local population. Given the severe physical condition of these mosques, it is
imperative to restore, protect, and maintain for them. The aim of this research is to examine the current
physical state of 25 mosques in Ajara, describe their cultural and architectural significances, and
provide recommendations for improvement of their physical condition.
Author: Christine Mujiri
Constructor: Soslan Lomadze
Editor: Nana Mepharishvili
Design: Maia Rizhvadze
Photos: Emre Kasap, Soslan Lomadze, Hurie Abashidze, Nestan Ananidze
