Georgia boasts a unique identity shaped by its strategic location, ancient traditions, and vibrant people. The country has some interesting and unique characteristics that appeal to visitors from all over the world.
1. Georgian people have a different name for the country
In the Georgian language, the country is called "Sakartvelo." This name reflects the nation’s deep-rooted cultural heritage and distinct linguistic identity, which sets it apart from other countries in the region. The name "Georgia" is believed to have been derived from the Persian and Arabic name for the country, which has been adopted by many Western languages.
2. Georgia is the oldest wine-producing country
Georgia is widely recognized as the oldest wine-producing country in the world. Archaeological evidence suggests that winemaking in Georgia dates back to at least 6000 BC. The traditional Georgian method of fermenting grapes in clay vessels called qvevri has been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
3. Georgia is the birthplace of Joseph Stalin
The Soviet leader Joseph Stalin was born in the town of Gori, Georgia, in 1878. His birthplace has been preserved as a museum, which includes his childhood home and various artifacts related to his life and political career. The museum offers a glimpse into the life of one of the most controversial figures of the 20th century.
4. Georgia was home to the first Europeans
Some of the oldest human remains found outside Africa were discovered in Dmanisi, Georgia. These remains, dating back 1.8 million years, provide crucial evidence about the early migration of humans from Africa to Europe.
5. Georgia is one of the oldest Christian countries
Georgia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, having adopted Christianity as its state religion in the early 4th century. The Georgian Orthodox Church has played a central role in the nation’s history and cultural identity. Many ancient churches and monasteries, such as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery, are located in Georgia.
6. Georgia is the home to the world’s deepest cave
Veryovkina Cave, located in the Arabika Massif of the Western Caucasus in Abkhazia, Georgia, is currently recognized as the world's deepest cave. It has been explored to a depth of 2,212 meters as of the latest measurements. This cave system is known for its challenging terrain and extreme depths
7. Europe’s highest settlement is located in Georgia
Ushguli, a community of villages located in the Svaneti region of Georgia, is the highest continuously inhabited settlement in Europe. Situated at an elevation of around 2,100 meters above sea level, Ushguli is known for its well-preserved medieval towers, stunning mountain scenery, and unique cultural traditions.
8. Georgia has 3 UNESCO world heritage-listed sites
Georgia is home to three UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites: the historical monuments of Mtskheta, the Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery, and the Upper Svaneti region. These sites are recognized for their outstanding cultural and historical significance, offering visitors a glimpse into Georgia’s rich past and architectural heritage.
9. Georgia has a unique language
The Georgian language is one of the oldest living languages in the world and is part of the Kartvelian language family, which is unique to the region. Georgian has its own distinct script, which is believed to have been created in the 5th century AD. The language has a unique phonetic and grammatical structure that is not related to any other language.
10. The world’s oldest Jewish communities lived in Georgia
Georgia has one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world, with a history that dates back over 2,600 years. The Jewish community in Georgia has played a significant role in the country’s cultural and social life, maintaining its traditions and contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of Georgia.
11. Georgia has distinguished polyphonic vocal traditions
Georgian polyphonic singing, characterized by its complex harmonies and rich vocal textures, is a unique and integral part of the country’s cultural heritage. This ancient tradition, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, is performed in various regional styles and is an essential element of Georgian celebrations and religious ceremonies.
12. There is a 6000-room ancient cave city in Georgia
The ancient cave city of Vardzia, located in southern Georgia, is a remarkable monastic complex carved into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain. Established in the 12th century, Vardzia consists of over 6,000 rooms, including churches, living quarters, and storage spaces. This extraordinary site offers a glimpse into medieval Georgian life and architectural ingenuity.
13. A Georgian folk song was sent into Space
A Georgian folk song, "Chakrulo," was included on the Golden Record aboard the Voyager spacecraft launched by NASA in 1977. The record, intended to represent the diverse cultures of Earth, features music and greetings from around the world. "Chakrulo" showcases the unique polyphonic singing tradition of Georgia.
14. One of the most isolated churches in the world is situated in Georgia
The Katskhi Pillar, a natural limestone monolith in western Georgia, is home to one of the most isolated churches in the world. Atop this 40-meter (130-foot) pillar stands a small church that has been a site of hermitage and religious devotion for centuries. The Katskhi Pillar symbolizes the profound spiritual connection between Georgia’s landscape and its religious heritage.
15. Satapliasaurus footprints dating back millions of years ago were found in Georgia
Footprints of Satapliasaurus were discovered in 1933 and preserved in the Sataplia Nature Reserve. In Georgia's Sataplia Nature Reserve near Kutaisi. These footprints, dating back about 120 million years to the early Cretaceous period, provide a rare glimpse into the past, showcasing tracks of both theropod and herbivorous dinosaurs.
Georgia is a country of extraordinary history, culture, and natural beauty. From its ancient traditions and unique language to its stunning landscapes and remarkable historical sites, Georgia offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to explore.