About Georgia
Georgia is a land of ancient history, breathtaking natural beauty, and unique culture. Nestled in southeastern Europe along the Black Sea, Georgia borders Turkey and Russia, with the majestic Great Caucasus Mountains to the north and the Lesser Caucasus to the south.
The roots of the Georgian people trace back to antiquity, reflected in a rich cultural heritage. Georgia became a kingdom in the 4th century B.C. and embraced Christianity in the 4th century A.D., making it one of the world’s oldest Christian nations. During the medieval period, Georgia flourished as a powerful kingdom, reaching its zenith between the 10th and 13th centuries. After enduring centuries of Turkish and Persian domination, Georgia was annexed by the Russian Empire in the 19th century. In 1936, it became a union republic of the Soviet Union until its collapse. One of the most independent-minded republics, Georgia declared sovereignty on November 19, 1989, and full independence on April 9, 1991.
Georgia is celebrated for its rich folklore, unique traditional music, theatre, cinema and art.
Georgia has the oldest winemaking tradition in the world and has been called the birthplace of wine (also the “Cradle of Wine”), due to archaeological evidence, which indicates wine production as far back as 8000 BC.
Adding to its historical significance, Georgia is home to the oldest human remains found outside Africa. Unearthed in Dmanisi region, these 1.8-million-year-old fossils, known as “the First Europeans,” offer critical insights into early human migration and evolution. These remarkable discoveries are showcased in numerous natural history museums around the world, including one in New York City, highlighting their global importance.
Despite its modest size, Georgia offers a remarkable variety of landscapes, from soaring mountain peaks and verdant wine-growing valleys to lush Black Sea resorts. Its climate ranges from Mediterranean-like along the coast to continental inland, with warm summers and snowy winters.
Georgian is dotted with ancient fortresses, monasteries, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, standing as testaments to resilience through the ages. Georgian architecture blends European and Asian influences, combining classical structures with modern skyscrapers.
This remarkable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes Georgia fascinating and a unique crossroads of civilizations.