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Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

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KOSHKEBI TOWER HOUSES

Many Tushetian villages feature koshkebi, spindly stone towers up to five storeys

tall. Unlike the better-known svaneti towers (also in Georgia), many have pointed

roof-caps, but both types are so ancient that even Unesco seems unable to guess

exact dates for their construction. It is said that no outsiders ever conquered

isolated Tusheti – it simply wasn’t worth besieging the hardy populace once they

had retreated into their towers. So potential invaders just passed by.

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the Caucasus

Next morning our Roshka homestay has found us a big, brash and boisterous

guide who locals nickname ‘The Beast’. The morning is freshly fragrant. Patches of

blue sky emerge between huge fluffy clouds. Soaring mountains add occasional

cameo appearances. While resting at a lovely viewpoint knoll, The Beast pulls out a

hip flask. He creates cups by knifing 7-Up bottles. Then it’s time to drink. In

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