The Culture of Guest Houses in Ajara: Based on Ethnographic Materials from the Village of Zundaga

Abstract

In Georgian culture, the tradition of hospitality holds a special place. From ancient times, there have existed unwritten laws of guest-host relations throughout Georgia. The guest was revered, almost sacred, in the eyes of a Georgian.

Among the many aspects of hospitality explored in Georgian ethnology, the study of guest houses occupies a particularly important role. In Adjara — and presumably in other regions as well — guest houses were typically built near communal squares. Overnight guests were not expected to pay for lodging or meals. The maintenance and operation of the guest house was a communal responsibility. Each household took turns serving the guest house: maintaining order, providing bedding, water, firewood, horse feed, repairing the roof when needed, and so on.

Sometimes, individual households would also build such guest houses themselves. The guest room was typically a separate structure, located 10–12 meters from the main house. In addition to this standalone guest house, a specially arranged guest room was often located within the main residence. This room frequently had its own private entrance and a separate bathroom exclusively for the guest.

In traditional Ajarian homes, the room designated for guests was called the “Meidan Oda”. Travelers caught on the road at night could use this room at any time, even if the host was not at home. Regardless of a guest’s past, while staying in the “Meidan Oda,” they were considered untouchable.

In the modern era, the central role of the “Meidan Oda” has gradually diminished, but the tradition of hospitality continues.

This article presents ethnographic material from the village of Zundaga in Keda Municipality, describing a standalone guest house known as the “Meidan Oda,” which is over two centuries old. It also includes information about the house where, in the 1890s, during his time in Adjara, the prominent Georgian researcher, ethnographer, and writer Zakaria Chichinadze lived.