Georgia is a country located in the Caucasus region of Eurasia. It is bordered by Russia to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and the Black Sea to the west. The capital and largest city is Tbilisi. Georgia has a rich cultural heritage, including ancient traditions, unique cuisine, and distinctive music and dance. The country is also known for its beautiful landscapes, including the rugged Caucasus Mountains, fertile valleys, and the scenic Black Sea coast. Georgia has a diverse economy, with agriculture, tourism, and energy among its major industries.

ABOUT

Georgia is a country situated in the Caucasus region of Eurasia, located at the crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. It is bordered by Russia to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and the Black Sea to the west. The capital and largest city of Georgia is Tbilisi.

Georgia has a rich and ancient cultural heritage, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. The country has a unique cuisine that features a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Georgia is also known for its traditional music, dance, and art.

The country has a diverse geography that includes the rugged Caucasus Mountains, fertile valleys, and the scenic Black Sea coast. The climate in Georgia is also varied, with mild winters and hot summers in the lowlands, and cold winters and mild summers in the mountainous regions.

Georgia has a mixed economy, with agriculture, tourism, and energy among its major industries. The country is known for its production of wine, tea, and hazelnuts, among other crops. The tourism industry has been growing in recent years, with visitors attracted to Georgia’s rich history, natural beauty, and unique culture.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

The name “Georgia” is believed to have originated from the Persian word “gurg” which means “wolf”. The Greeks who arrived in the region in the 4th century BC referred to the people as “georgoi” meaning “cultivators of land” which is believed to be the origin of the name of the country. The native name of Georgia is “Sakartvelo” which means “land of the Kartvelians”, the ethnic group that comprises the majority of the population.

Georgia has also been known by other names throughout its history, including Iberia and Colchis. Iberia was the name given to the region by the ancient Greeks and Romans, while Colchis was the name of the kingdom that existed in western Georgia during the classical era. In modern times, Georgia was a republic of the Soviet Union and was known as the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic.

HISTORY

Georgia has a long and rich history that spans thousands of years. The earliest evidence of human habitation in Georgia dates back to the Paleolithic era, and the region has been inhabited by various groups throughout its history.

In the 4th century BC, the ancient Greeks established colonies in Georgia and the region became a hub for trade between Europe and Asia. The Kingdom of Iberia emerged in the 3rd century BC and became a major power in the region. Christianity was introduced to Georgia in the 4th century AD and the country became one of the first Christian nations in the world.

In the medieval period, Georgia was ruled by a series of powerful monarchs, including David the Builder, who oversaw a golden age of cultural and economic development. The country was invaded by Mongol forces in the 13th century, and later fell under the rule of the Ottoman Empire and the Persian Safavid dynasty.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Georgia was ruled by a series of kingdoms and principalities, and was later incorporated into the Russian Empire. Georgia declared its independence from Russia in 1918, but was invaded by Soviet forces in 1921 and became a republic of the Soviet Union.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Georgia declared its independence once again and underwent a period of political and economic turmoil. In recent years, the country has made significant progress towards building a stable democracy and developing its economy, and has sought closer ties with the West.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

Georgia is a parliamentary representative democratic republic, with the President as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The Parliament of Georgia is a unicameral body, consisting of 150 members who are elected for a four-year term.

The Constitution of Georgia establishes a system of checks and balances, with power divided between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. The President serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, and has the power to appoint and dismiss the Prime Minister, as well as to veto legislation passed by the Parliament.

The Prime Minister is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the government, and is appointed by the President with the approval of the Parliament. The government is accountable to the Parliament, which has the power to initiate legislation, approve the budget, and conduct investigations.

Georgia has a multi-party system, with numerous political parties and coalitions represented in the Parliament. The most influential parties include the ruling Georgian Dream party, the opposition United National Movement, and the European Georgia party.

In recent years, Georgia has made progress towards greater political freedom and democratic governance, although challenges remain, particularly with regard to corruption and the independence of the judiciary. The country has also sought closer ties with the European Union and NATO, and has implemented significant reforms aimed at modernizing its economy and improving the standard of living for its citizens.

ECONOMY

Georgia has a developing market economy that is heavily reliant on agriculture, tourism, and exports. The country has made significant strides in recent years to modernize its economy and attract foreign investment, with a particular focus on developing its technology sector.

Agriculture is a key sector of the economy, with Georgia being one of the world’s largest producers of hazelnuts and an important producer of wine, tea, and other crops. Tourism is also a major contributor to the economy, with the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historic sites drawing millions of visitors each year.

Georgia has made efforts to improve its business environment, with measures aimed at reducing bureaucracy, streamlining regulations, and promoting entrepreneurship. The country has also implemented tax reforms and established free economic zones to attract foreign investment.

In recent years, Georgia has also sought to deepen its trade relationships with other countries, particularly in the European Union and Asia. The country has signed free trade agreements with the EU, China, and other countries, and has sought to develop its infrastructure to better facilitate trade.

Despite progress in many areas, Georgia still faces significant economic challenges, including a high poverty rate, inequality, and unemployment. The country has also been affected by the global COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a significant impact on its tourism industry and overall economic performance.

GEOGRAPHY

Georgia is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, bordered by Russia to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and the Black Sea to the west. The country has a diverse geography, with mountainous regions in the north and northwest, lowlands in the east and southeast, and a coastal region along the Black Sea.

The Greater Caucasus mountain range runs along the northern border of Georgia, with several peaks rising over 5,000 meters. The country’s highest point is Mount Shkhara, which stands at 5,193 meters. The region is home to several glaciers and is a popular destination for hiking and winter sports.

To the east of the mountains, the landscape is characterized by the Kolkheti Lowlands and the Iori Plateau, which are fertile regions known for their agriculture. The country’s largest river, the Mtkvari (also known as the Kura), runs through the east and south, and is an important source of water for irrigation and hydroelectric power.

The Black Sea coast is a popular tourist destination, with several resort towns and beaches. The region also has important ports, including the country’s largest port in Batumi.

Georgia has a diverse range of flora and fauna, with several protected areas and national parks. The country is known for its biodiversity, with a number of endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The region is also home to several important bird migration routes and is a popular destination for birdwatching.

TRANSPORT

Georgia has a relatively developed transportation infrastructure, with several modes of transportation available for both domestic and international travel.

Road transportation is the most common way of getting around the country, with a network of highways and smaller roads connecting major cities and towns. The quality of roads varies, with some areas experiencing poor maintenance and road conditions. The country has implemented several road improvement projects in recent years, including the construction of new highways and the repair of existing roads.

Rail transportation is also available, with several railway lines connecting major cities and towns. The Georgian Railways company operates passenger and freight trains throughout the country, as well as international routes to neighboring countries such as Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Russia.

Air transportation is served by several airports, including the main international airport in Tbilisi. The airport offers flights to major European and Asian cities, as well as domestic flights to other cities in Georgia. The country also has several smaller airports that serve regional flights.

Public transportation within cities and towns is mainly provided by buses and minibuses, known as marshrutkas. Taxis are also readily available, with both metered and negotiated fares common. In recent years, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Bolt have also become popular in major cities.

Georgia also has several ports along the Black Sea coast, including the major port of Batumi. The port is an important transportation hub for cargo and passengers, with several ferry and cruise services available to neighboring countries and other destinations in the region.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

Georgia’s economy is primarily driven by several key industry sectors, including agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and mining.

Agriculture is a significant sector, accounting for a large portion of the country’s GDP and employing a significant portion of the population. Georgia is known for its production of various crops, including grapes, hazelnuts, and tea. Wine production is also an important industry, with Georgia being one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world.

Tourism is another key industry, with the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty attracting millions of visitors each year. Popular tourist destinations include the capital city of Tbilisi, the historic town of Mtskheta, the mountainous region of Svaneti, and the Black Sea coast.

Manufacturing is also a growing sector in Georgia, with industries such as textiles, machinery, and food processing seeing significant growth in recent years. The government has implemented several policies aimed at attracting foreign investment and promoting the development of the manufacturing sector.

Mining is a smaller industry in Georgia, but the country has significant deposits of various minerals, including manganese, copper, and gold. The mining sector has seen some growth in recent years, with several foreign companies investing in exploration and development of mineral resources.

Overall, Georgia’s economy is diversifying and experiencing steady growth, with several industry sectors contributing to the country’s development and progress.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Georgia has a population of approximately 3.7 million people, with ethnic Georgians comprising the majority at around 86% of the population. Other significant ethnic groups include Azerbaijanis, Armenians, and Russians.

The country has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 37 years. The fertility rate in Georgia is also relatively high compared to other European countries, at around 2 children per woman.

The capital city of Tbilisi is the largest city in Georgia, with a population of approximately 1.1 million people. Other major cities include Kutaisi, Batumi, and Rustavi.

Religion plays an important role in Georgian culture, with the majority of the population adhering to the Georgian Orthodox Church. There are also significant Muslim and Armenian Christian populations in the country.

The literacy rate in Georgia is high, at around 99%. The education system is overseen by the Ministry of Education and Science, and education is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16.

Georgia has a relatively high level of urbanization, with around 53% of the population living in urban areas. The country has experienced significant urbanization in recent years, with many rural residents moving to cities in search of better economic opportunities.

EDUCATION

Education in Georgia is overseen by the Ministry of Education and Science. Education is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16, and the education system is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.

Primary education in Georgia lasts for 6 years, and is followed by 3 years of lower secondary education and 3 years of upper secondary education. At the end of upper secondary education, students take the Unified National Examinations, which determine their eligibility for tertiary education.

Tertiary education in Georgia is offered at universities, colleges, and vocational schools. There are around 50 higher education institutions in the country, including state and private universities. The largest and oldest university in Georgia is Tbilisi State University, which was founded in 1918.

Georgia has a strong tradition of science and technology, and the country has produced many notable scientists and scholars over the years. The Georgian Academy of Sciences was established in 1941, and is the country’s main scientific institution.

Despite these strengths, the education system in Georgia faces several challenges, including a lack of funding, outdated facilities, and a shortage of qualified teachers. The government has made efforts to address these issues in recent years, with a particular focus on improving access to education in rural areas.

HEALTHCARE

The healthcare system in Georgia has undergone significant improvements in recent years, although it still faces some challenges. The country has a universal healthcare system that provides free or low-cost medical care to its citizens. However, there is a shortage of healthcare professionals, and many medical facilities are outdated and poorly equipped.

The Georgian government has implemented various initiatives to address these issues, including increasing the number of medical schools and hospitals, providing incentives for doctors to work in rural areas, and investing in new medical technologies. The country has also made progress in reducing the incidence of certain diseases, such as tuberculosis, through targeted prevention and treatment efforts.

In addition, Georgia has become a popular destination for medical tourism, with many foreigners coming to the country for affordable medical treatments and procedures. The government has been actively promoting this industry, and there are several private hospitals and clinics that cater to international patients.

CULTURE

Georgia has a rich and diverse culture that has been shaped by its unique history and geography. The country has been influenced by various civilizations over the centuries, including the ancient Greeks, Persians, and Romans, as well as the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Georgian culture is its cuisine. Georgian food is known for its rich flavors and generous use of herbs and spices. Some of the most popular dishes include khinkali (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers).

Georgian music and dance are also an important part of the country’s cultural heritage. Traditional Georgian music is characterized by complex harmonies and polyphonic singing, and is often accompanied by stringed instruments such as the panduri and the chonguri. Georgian dance, meanwhile, is known for its energetic movements and colorful costumes.

Religion has also played a significant role in Georgian culture. The country is predominantly Orthodox Christian, and many of its most famous landmarks, such as the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe and the medieval monasteries of Davit Gareja and Gelati, are religious in nature.

Overall, Georgian culture is a vibrant and dynamic mix of ancient traditions and modern influences, and continues to evolve and adapt to the changing world around it.

NATURAL RESOURCES

Georgia is rich in natural resources, including minerals, forests, and agricultural land. The country has deposits of manganese, copper, and gold, as well as significant reserves of coal and oil. The forests of Georgia provide timber for the construction industry, as well as a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The fertile soil of the country is suitable for growing crops such as grapes, citrus fruits, tea, and hazelnuts, which are important export products. Georgia also has significant hydropower potential, with many rivers and lakes that can be used for electricity generation.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Georgia faces a number of environmental issues, including air and water pollution, deforestation, soil erosion, and the impact of climate change. Industrial and transportation emissions are major sources of air pollution in urban areas, and water pollution is a significant problem in the country’s rivers and coastal waters. Deforestation and soil erosion are also major concerns, as forests are cleared for agricultural land and development projects. The country is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as increased frequency of natural disasters, rising sea levels, and changes in precipitation patterns. The Georgian government has implemented various policies and initiatives to address these environmental issues, including the promotion of renewable energy sources and sustainable land use practices, as well as the development of protected areas and the conservation of biodiversity.

HUMAN RIGHTS

Georgia has made some progress in protecting human rights, but challenges remain. In recent years, there have been concerns about media freedom, access to justice, and political influence in the judiciary. Discrimination against ethnic and religious minorities, including the Muslim community, is also an issue. There have also been reports of police brutality, and the treatment of prisoners and detainees has been criticized. However, there have been efforts to address these issues, including reforms to the justice system and the creation of human rights institutions. The government has also been working to address discrimination and promote tolerance and inclusivity.

FOODS

Georgia is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, which features a variety of meat dishes, stews, and baked goods. Here are some popular Georgian foods:

• Khinkali – a type of dumpling filled with meat, herbs, and spices.
• Khachapuri – a cheese-filled bread that comes in various shapes and styles.
• Mtsvadi – grilled skewers of marinated pork or beef.
• Badrijani – fried eggplant rolls filled with a mixture of garlic, walnuts, and herbs.
• Lobio – a hearty bean stew seasoned with coriander, onion, and garlic.
• Churchkhela – a traditional candy made of grape must and nuts, shaped like a sausage.
• Chakapuli – a lamb stew with tarragon, onions, and white wine.
• Pkhali – a dish made of chopped vegetables, such as spinach, beets, or cabbage, mixed with walnuts, herbs, and spices.
• Tklapi – a fruit leather made from grape or plum juice.
• Satsivi – a creamy walnut sauce served with chicken or turkey.

Georgian cuisine also features a variety of fresh herbs and spices, including coriander, dill, tarragon, mint, and fenugreek. Additionally, Georgian wines are becoming increasingly popular around the world, with a history dating back over 8,000 years.

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Georgia is a country in the Caucasus region of Eurasia, situated at the crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse architecture, rich history, and warm hospitality. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Georgia include:

• Tbilisi – The capital city of Georgia, known for its charming Old Town, eclectic architecture, sulfur baths, and delicious cuisine.
• Svaneti – A mountainous region in northwest Georgia, home to some of the country’s highest peaks, medieval towers, and unique culture.
• Kazbegi – A small town located in the high Caucasus Mountains, known for its stunning views of Mount Kazbek and the Gergeti Trinity Church.
• Batumi – A seaside city on the Black Sea coast, known for its modern architecture, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches.
• Kakheti – A region in eastern Georgia, known for its rolling vineyards, historic churches, and delicious wine.
• Uplistsikhe – An ancient cave city located in eastern Georgia, dating back to the 6th century BC.
• Mtskheta – A historic town near Tbilisi, known for its UNESCO-listed churches and monasteries.
• Vardzia – A medieval cave city in southern Georgia, carved into the side of a cliff and dating back to the 12th century.
• Ananuri – A medieval castle complex located on the Aragvi River, known for its impressive fortifications and stunning views.
• Gudauri – A popular ski resort in the Caucasus Mountains, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region.

CELEBRITIES

There are many famous people from Georgia, both past and present, who have made a significant impact in various fields. Here are a few examples:

• Joseph Stalin – former leader of the Soviet Union, born in Gori, Georgia.
• Ilia Chavchavadze – 19th century writer, poet, and national figure.
• Sergei Rachmaninoff – renowned composer, pianist, and conductor, born in Semyonovo, Russia (then part of the Russian Empire).
• Nino Ananiashvili – internationally acclaimed ballet dancer and artistic director of the State Ballet of Georgia.
• Katie Melua – British-Georgian singer and songwriter.
• Zurab Tsereteli – artist and sculptor, known for his large-scale public monuments and installations.
• Levan Tsikurishvili – filmmaker and director, known for his documentary on the late Swedish DJ and producer, Avicii.
• Tornike Shengelia – professional basketball player who has played for several NBA teams.
• Davit Kipiani – former professional footballer and coach, regarded as one of the greatest players in Georgian football history.
• Nikoloz Tskitishvili – former professional basketball player who was the fifth overall pick in the 2002 NBA draft.

These are just a few examples of the many accomplished Georgians who have made their mark on the world.

NEWSPAPERS

Georgia has a diverse range of newspapers, both in terms of language and political orientation. Some of the major newspapers in the country include:

• ახალციხე (Akhaltsikhe) – daily newspaper
• დიდი წყარო (Didi Tskaro) – daily newspaper
• ეკო (Eko) – weekly newspaper
• თბილისის საქართველო (Tbilisi Sakartvelo) – daily newspaper
• მარტვილი (Martvili) – daily newspaper
• საქართველოს რესპუბლიკა (Sakartvelos Resp’ublika) – daily newspaper
• ტაბულა (Tabula) – online news portal
• ქართული მცხეთა (Kartuli Mtsheta) – daily newspaper
• ქართული პოსტი (Kartuli Posti) – daily newspaper

There are also several English language newspapers in Georgia catering to the expat community and tourists, including Georgia Today, Georgia About, and Agenda.ge.

TV CHANNELS

Georgia has several television channels that cater to different audiences. Some of the popular channels include:

• Public Broadcasting of Georgia: The state-owned broadcaster that operates two channels, GPB and GPB 2.
• Rustavi 2: A private television broadcaster that airs news, entertainment, and sports programming.
• Imedi TV: Another private television channel that offers a mix of news, entertainment, and sports programming.
• Maestro: A private television channel that focuses on news and current affairs.
• GDS TV: A private television channel that offers news, entertainment, and sports programming.
• Adjara TV: A regional television channel based in the autonomous republic of Adjara that offers news and entertainment programming.
• Kavkasia TV: A private television channel that offers news and entertainment programming in Georgian and Russian.

These channels are available on cable and satellite television platforms, and many of them also offer online streaming services.

RADIO

Georgia has a diverse radio landscape, with a range of public and private stations broadcasting in various languages, including Georgian, Russian, and English. Some of the most popular radio stations in Georgia include:

• Radio 1 – a private station broadcasting in Georgian, with a mix of news, talk, and music programming.
• Fortuna – a private station that plays a mix of Georgian and international music.
• Europa Plus – a private station that plays contemporary pop music from around the world.
• Radio Tavisupleba – a public station that broadcasts news, current affairs, and cultural programming in Georgian.
• Radio 105 – a private station that plays a mix of Georgian and international music.
• Voice of America – an international broadcaster that operates a Georgian language service, providing news, analysis, and cultural programming to audiences in Georgia and the wider region.
• Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty – another international broadcaster that operates a Georgian language service, with a focus on news, analysis, and investigative journalism.

FACTS

Here some facts about Georgia

• Georgia is located in the Caucasus region of Eurasia.
• The country has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and has been under the control of various empires and kingdoms throughout its history.
• Georgia was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity as its official religion, in the 4th century.
• The Georgian language has its own unique script, known as the Georgian script.
• The capital and largest city of Georgia is Tbilisi.
• The country has a population of around 3.7 million people.
• Georgia is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Caucasus Mountains, Black Sea coast, and lush forests.
• The country is home to several national parks and protected areas, including the Caucasus Biosphere Reserve and the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.
• Georgian cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs and spices, as well as dishes like khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (dumplings).
• Georgia is famous for its wine, which has been produced in the region for thousands of years.
• Georgia is also known for its traditional polyphonic singing, which has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
• The country has a developing economy, with industries including agriculture, mining, and tourism.
• Georgia has been a member of the United Nations since 1992, and is also a member of the Council of Europe, the World Trade Organization, and other international organizations.
• The Georgian currency is called the lari.
• Georgia has a mixed parliamentary-presidential system of government.
• The current President of Georgia is Salome Zurabishvili, who has held the position since 2018.
• The country has a diverse media landscape, with both public and private television and radio stations, as well as a number of newspapers and online news outlets.
• Georgia has a rich literary tradition, with famous authors including Shota Rustaveli and Ilia Chavchavadze.
• The Georgian film industry has produced several acclaimed films, including Tangerines, which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2015.
• The country is known for its traditional folk dancing, which is performed in colorful costumes and accompanied by music played on instruments like the panduri and doli.
• Georgian traditional clothing includes the chokha, a long woolen coat worn by men, and the kartuli, a long dress worn by women.
• Georgian architecture is characterized by its intricate carvings, colorful mosaics, and distinctive domed roofs.
• Georgia has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including a network of highways, railways, and airports.
• The country has a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic centers of Tbilisi and Mtskheta, and the Upper Svaneti region.
• Georgia has a rich tradition of hospitality, with guests often being welcomed with a feast of traditional Georgian dishes and wine.
• The country has a high literacy rate, with education being mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 14.
• Georgia is home to several internationally recognized universities, including Tbilisi State University and the Georgian Technical University.
• The Georgian Orthodox Church is the dominant religion in the country, and plays an important role in Georgian culture and society.
• The country has a rich tradition of art and crafts, including carpet weaving, embroidery, and pottery.
• Georgian traditional medicine includes the use of herbs, acupuncture, and massage.