South Ossetia is a self acclaimed nation known to be a part of the Georgian country. The Ossetians previously under the Georgian and Byzantine rule became Christians during the Middle Ages. In 1801, after gaining freedom from the Mongol empire, Ossetia was attached to Russia. However, Georgia claimed them again and then Ossetia was split in two, north and south.
South Ossetia was assimilated by the Menshevik Georgian Democratic Republic, while the north joined the Terek Soviet Republic. In 1992, Georgia made a pledge not to effect any sanctions to South Ossetia though they haven’t relinquished control of some parts of the country.

Presently, South Ossetia’s government though unrecognized is located in Tskhinvali, which is also the largest town in the region. South Ossetia is rich in history and full of cultural monuments. Alkhagori and Java are two other cities in South Ossetia notable for the Lomisi Brewery which produces beer of the highest quality and the administrative district of Georgia respectively.

South Ossetia has stunning scenery, a conducive climate and a rich and balanced mix of flora and fauna, it is a prime destination for biologists. South Ossetia is blessed with many pretty mountain peaks which come to their full glory at dawn or at twilight. There are health spas in the middle of the mountains, and with the famous mineral water, caves and waterfalls, this is a place for those who crave to feel in communion with nature.

If you want to experience the enchanting scenery of the countryside, you will have to board a bus from Tbilisi’s Didube market. The Tbilisi has an energetic Mediterranean countenance, and you can lose your bearings amongst the many labyrinthine streets. The buses leave as soon as they are full and this happens quite early so one ought to get there as early as possible. The place is ideal for mountain climbers but as the trek up hill might take a couple of days, it will be wise to bring adequate supplies.

For those who would prefer an old fashioned excursion, South Ossetia offers various monuments dispersed throughout. Emblems of national pride, a few semi-ruined stone towers, can be seen beneath Mount Narivhoh in the Central Mountains.

A ride along the road linking North Ossetia with the South is a memorable event especially when you consider the number of lost lives in a bid to create this seemingly last link between the two cultures.

Authentic Ossetian food is exquisite and most previous visitors will recommend you try the Ossetian pie, a meal resembling the Georgian khachapuri, but the cheese is substituted with meat.

South Ossetia has a lot to offer her visitors. It is cheap and affordable and you will enjoy every moment of your visit.