Circassian invasion of Abkhazia

The Battle of the Black Mountain was a significant military engagement in the 15th century between the forces of Inal the Great and the combined armies of the Kingdom of Imereti and the Principality of Mingrelia. The battle occurred in the mountainous regions of Abkhazia, a strategically important area for both Circassian and Georgian forces.

Battle of the Black Mountain
Part of Circassian history and Circassian Reconquista
Date Late 15th century[1] Location Black Mountain, Abkhazia Result Circassian victory Territorial changes Conquering and annexation of Abkhazia to Circassia
Belligerents
Circassia Abasgia(Irregular military)	Kingdom of Imereti Principality of Mingrelia
Commanders and leaders
Inal the Great Özdemir[2]	Georgian commanders (names disputed)
Strength
10,000[3]	8,000–12,000[3]
Casualties and losses
Unknown	Heavy

According to historical records, Inal led a force of approximately 10,000 Circassians against a Georgian army of 8,000–12,000 soldiers.^[3] The battle resulted in a Circassian victory, dealing a heavy blow to Georgian influence in northern Abkhazia. Some sources suggest that the Georgian commanders suffered heavy casualties, forcing the survivors to retreat.^[4][5]

This victory played a significant role in expanding Circassian control over Abkhazia and further solidified Inal’s rule over the region. The battle is often cited as a key moment in the decline of Georgian dominance in western Caucasia.

Note: Due to limited primary sources, some details remain debated among historians.

Aftermath

Following the Circassian victory, Abkhazia experienced significant political and cultural shifts. The region came under strong Circassian influence, leading to changes in governance and local customs.^{[6][verification needed]}

The defeat of the Georgian forces weakened the influence of the Kingdom of Imereti and the Principality of Mingrelia in Abkhazia. This marked a decline in Georgian control and allowed the Circassians to consolidate their presence in the region.^{[7][8][9][10][11]}

The demographic landscape also shifted, with an increased Circassian presence in Abkhazia through migration and integration. The local nobility adapted to the new power dynamics, forging alliances with Circassian leaders.^{[12][13][9][10]}

The geopolitical consequences of the invasion extended beyond Abkhazia. The weakening of Mingrelia and Imereti created opportunities for external powers, including the Ottoman Empire, to expand their influence in the western Caucasus in the following centuries.^{[citation needed]}