Rough Hands, Timeless Traditions: The Martvili Market in Georgia

In October 2024, I was driving from Kutaisi to Mestia, enjoying the amazing Georgian landscapes. I asked some locals if there were any markets nearby, but no one had a clear answer. Then, just outside Martvili, I stumbled upon a market by chance—and I had to pull over.

The market was like stepping back in time. There was a bit of everything—livestock in one area, dairy products in another, honey and nuts nearby, and clothes hanging on makeshift stalls. The people seemed so comfortable, like this was just a natural part of their lives.

What really stood out to me were their faces. This wasn’t just about buying and selling. It was a place where people gathered, shared stories, and kept their traditions alive. It reminded me of the flea markets we used to have in Greece. Most of those have disappeared or become so modernized that they’ve lost their charm. But this market in Martvili? It felt real, untouched, and connected to the people’s identity. That’s what made it stick with me.