In Abkhazia, 2 Orthodox Churches Also Seek Recognition

The Orthodox cathedral in Sukhumi where “Batyushka” Vissarion works. By Nikolaus von Twickel 4/9/2011 Moscow Times NOVY AFON — Nestled in the foothills of the Caucasus and overlooking the Black Sea, the Novy Afon monastery’s golden-topped cupolas shimmer from afar from between evergreen cypresses, attracting droves of mainly Russian visitors on a hot summer day. For the Georgian breakaway republic of Abkhazia, Novy Afon, or New Athos, is clearly the top tourist attraction and a prime object of national heritage.