Abstract: this article analyzes the hypothesis about the influence of the legal systems of ancient settlements (policies) of ancient Greeks and Romans on the legal system of Abkhazians. The history of the colonization of the Republic of Abkhazia in the ancient period is considered. The myth about Geniochas is analyzed, as well as real historical facts that determine the ethnic composition of the Geniokhov tribe. The array of analyzed works of Abkhaz and Russian scientists, including field materials (in particular, the results of archaeological excavations) point to the fact that the legal system of the Greek and Roman colonies had practically no effect on the right of the aboriginal population, as it was limited in its application, exclusively , the territory of their own settlements. However, it cannot be denied that theoretically these rules of law could apply to allied aboriginal tribes living in the territory of policies, and in some cases – admitted to this territory (for example, on trade issues).
Keywords: Abkhazia, antiquity, Geniochi, colonies, polisies, law, archeology, myth