Georgia is amazing country, in which different cultures, traditions and religions intersect. In this country, any tourist can find what he likes most - snow-capped peaks, the subtropical Black Sea coast with cypresses, firs and palm trees, unique mineral springs and balneological resorts, breathtaking landscapes with beautiful nature, ancient fortresses, as well as very tasty cuisine.

Geography of Georgia

Georgia is located in the Caucasus at the crossroads of Western Asia and of Eastern Europe. In the north, Georgia borders with Russia, in the south with Armenia and Turkey, and in the southeast with Azerbaijan. In the west, the Georgian shores are washed by the waters of the Black Sea. The total area of ​​this country is 69,700 square meters. km., and the total length of the state border is 1,461 km.

In the north of Georgia there is the Greater mountain range Caucasus ridge. There are three mountains in Georgia whose height exceeds 5 thousand meters - Shkhara (5,068 m), Dzhangitau (5,059 m), Kazbek (5,033 m). In the west of the country is the Colchis Plain.

Many beautiful rivers flow through Georgia. The largest of them are Kura (1,364 km), Tegri (623 km) and Chorokhi (438 km).

Capital

The capital of Georgia is Tbilisi, which is now home to more than 1.2 million people. Historians claim that human settlement on the territory of modern Tbilisi existed 5 thousand years ago.

Official language of Georgia

Official language in Georgia - Georgian, belonging to the Kartvelian language family.

Religion

About 84% of the population of Georgia are Orthodox Christians belonging to the Georgian Orthodox Church, and another 9% of Georgians consider themselves Muslims (Shiites).

State structure of Georgia

According to the current Constitution of 1995, Georgia is a presidential republic. Its head is the President, elected by the people for 5 years.

In Georgia, legislative power belongs to the unicameral Parliament (150 deputies). Members of Parliament are elected for a 4-year term.

Basic political parties in Georgia - “United National Movement”, “Georgian Dream - Democratic Georgia”, “Conservative Party”, “Republican Party”, “Our Georgia - Free Democrats”.

Climate and weather

The climate in Georgia is very diverse. Conventionally, this country can be divided into two climatic zones– East and West. The Greater Caucasus Range protects Georgia from the cold wind from the north, and the Lesser Caucasus mountain system protects Georgia from the south.

Most of Western Georgia (Batumi) is in a subtropical humid climate. The wettest region in Georgia is Adjara, where an average of 5,500 mm of precipitation falls annually.

In Eastern Georgia the climate is transitional from humid subtropical to continental. The weather in this region is influenced by air from the Caspian and Black Seas. Every year, 400 - 1,600 mm of precipitation falls here.

The average annual air temperature in Tbilisi is +13.3C. In July and August, the average air temperature in Georgia is +31C, and in January - -2C.

Sea in Georgia

In the west, the Georgian shores are washed by the waters of the Black Sea. The coastline is 310 km. Most of the Black Sea coast in Georgia is a resort area.

Rivers and lakes

Many rivers flow through the territory of Georgia. The largest of them are Kura (1,364 km), Tegri (623 km), Chorokhi (438 km) and Alazani (351 km). As for the lakes in Georgia, the largest of them are Paravani, Kartsakhi and Paleostomi.

History of Georgia

The history of Georgia is an endless series of wars, uprisings and revolutions. The territory in which Georgia is located (between the Black and Caspian seas) has attracted various conquerors over the centuries. Georgia has always been involved in the sphere of economic and political interests of large states. Georgia is a relatively young state, formed in the 10th century, but its history began long before that...

The history of Georgian statehood begins with the emergence of Colchis and the Iberian kingdom. So. Colchis was founded in the 6th century AD.

In the 10th century, King Bagrat III united the eastern and western parts of Georgia into a single state. It reached its peak in the 12th century during the reign of King David the Builder. In the 13th century, Georgia was invaded by the Tatar-Mongols, and in the 15th century by the troops of Timur.

In the 18th-19th centuries, Georgia gradually became part of the Russian Empire. But it was only in the 1870s that the troops of the Ottoman Empire were finally expelled from Georgia.

In 1918, Georgia became part of the Transcaucasian Democratic Federal Republic, and in 1936 - into the USSR.

Georgia's independence was declared in 1991. In 1992, Georgia became a member of the UN.

Culture

For many centuries, winemaking was not only the basis of Georgia’s economic wealth, but also part of its spiritual culture. Wine for Georgians is not just a drink. Wine in Georgia is more like a religion. The vine is often mentioned in Georgian legends and songs.

Georgia has very strong traditions of hospitality. Previously, Georgian houses even had special guest rooms (or separate houses), where any guest could enter, eat and spend the night there.

Each Georgian holiday must occur in a certain order. This is monitored by a special person - the toastmaster. According to traditions, the toastmaster must be the owner of the house himself or he must be chosen from among the most respected guests.

Georgian traditions, as well as Georgian hospitality, are reflected in wedding customs. You need to invite many guests to a Georgian wedding (sometimes their number reaches several hundred). Refusing to come to a wedding means insulting the inviting party, and this can lead to a blood feud.

Georgian cuisine

Perhaps some tourists who have visited Georgia will say that its most important attraction is the local Georgian cuisine. The traditional Georgian feast is an integral element of Georgian culture.

Georgians love and know how to cook meat. Dishes such as shish kebab, “chicken tobacco”, chikhirtma and chakhokhbili have long gained popularity in the most different countries peace.

A distinctive feature of Georgian cuisine is a large number of sauces. The same dish in Georgia can be served with different sauces, and it will differ not only in appearance, but also in taste and aroma. Sauces in Georgia are made from berries, fruits, tomatoes, pomegranates, blackberries, barberries, which are boiled and then mixed with vinegar and spices.

Another distinctive feature of Georgian cuisine is the abundance of cheeses. Each region in Georgia boasts its own traditional type of cheese. The most famous varieties of cheese are “Suluguni”, “Kobisky” and “Chanakh”.

Georgians often use nuts for cooking - almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts.

A very important element of Georgian cuisine is spices. They are used to prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner. The most popular spices (depending on the season) are parsley, dill, wild garlic, mint, basil, savory, tarragon, etc.

On the Georgian table, next to the meat, there must always be vegetables and herbs. Most vegetable dishes are prepared from eggplant, beans, cabbage, beets and tomatoes. Thus, in Georgian cuisine there are several dozen eggplant dishes.

Soups are very popular in Georgia, which can be meat, vegetarian or dairy. Soup in Georgia is usually cooked without vegetables, and always seasoned with flour or eggs.

Instead of bread in Georgia they use “gomi”, a very thick corn porridge, as well as “shoti” (white leavened bread) and “mchadi” (corn cakes).

A Georgian feast cannot be imagined without wine. Georgian wines are known in many countries of the world. The most popular Georgian wines are Khvanchkara, Kindzmarauli, Saperavi, Tvishi and Tsinandali.

Sights of Georgia

According to official data, in Georgia there are now more than 10 thousand historical, architectural and archaeological sites. In our opinion, the Top 10 best Georgian attractions may include the following:

1. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta
2. Zionsky Cathedral in Tbilisi
3. Church of St. Mary in Tbilisi
4. Gremi Citadel on the Intsoba River
5. Shio-Mgvime Monastery
6. Jvari Church in Mtskheta
7. Ananuri Fortress
8. Akhali Shuamta Nunnery
9. Khertvisi Fortress
10. Samtavro Convent

Cities and resorts

The largest Georgian cities are Batumi, Rustavi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi, Poti, Gori, and, of course, Tbilisi.

On the Black Sea coast in Georgia there are several excellent beach resorts– Batumi, Cape Verde, Mikhinjauri, Ord, Kobuletti, Tsikhisdziri, Ureki. The best Georgian beaches are in Adjara, which is located in a subtropical humid climate. Almost the entire coastline of Adjara is a beautiful long beach, on the shores of which palm trees, fir and cypress trees grow.

Georgia is famous not only for its beaches, but also for its balneological resorts. Today there are about 2 thousand thermal and mineral springs in Georgia. Moreover, more than 20 of them are large mineral springs (like in Borjomi). The most famous Georgian balneological resorts are Borjomi, Tsikhisdziri, Tskaltubo, Mukhuri, Beshumi, Abastumani, Shovi, Zekari.

Georgia cannot be imagined without ski resorts. The most famous of them are Bakuriani, Gudauri, Bakhmaro. The skiing season in Georgia usually lasts from December to April.

Souvenirs/shopping

Tourists from Georgia usually bring folk art products, wine horns, scarves, icons, Georgian cheese, Georgian wine, churchkhela, spices (hops-suneli, cilantro, Imeretian saffron), sauces (adjika, tkemali).

Office hours

Georgia is the most detailed information about the country with photos. Sights, cities of Georgia, climate, geography, population and culture.

Georgia (საქართველო)

Georgia is a state in the southwestern part of the Caucasus. This is a small country in Transcaucasia on east coast The Black Sea, which is located at the junction of Europe and Asia. Georgia borders on Russia in the north and east, Turkey and Armenia in the south, and Azerbaijan in the southeast. Geographically, the country belongs to Western Asia and the Middle East, although currently the state is considered as part of Eastern Europe. Georgia is a parliamentary republic. More than 80% of the population professes Orthodoxy.

Despite its small size, Georgia is a country of contrasts and amazing diversity. Here you can see stunning mountain landscapes, visit wonderful ancient cities, monasteries and churches, and relax at the Black Sea resorts. In Greek mythology, the Golden Fleece was kept in Georgia, and archaeological finds indicate that it is the oldest wine-producing region (samples of wines dating back to the sixth millennium BC have been found). Georgia is an amazingly picturesque country with hospitable people, delicious cuisine, rich history and culture.

Useful information about Georgia

1. The official language is Georgian.
2. Currency is Georgian lari.
3. A visa is not required for up to 360 days.
4. Population - more than 3.7 million people.
5. Area - 69,700 sq. km.
6. The capital is Tbilisi.
7. Time zone is UTC +4.
8. There are three monuments in Georgia World Heritage UNESCO.
9. Georgia is one of the most safe countries in the world.

Geography and climate

Georgia is located in Transcaucasia and is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. Northern part countries are mountains Greater Caucasus. The south of the country is occupied by the lower ranges of the Lesser Caucasus. The highest peaks of Georgia are Mount Shkhara (5068 m) and Kazbek (5033 m). Closer to the coast, the relief becomes calmer and the Colchis Lowland is formed. The Black Sea coast in Georgia has a length of just over 100 km. Largest rivers Georgia: Kura, Rioni, Inguri.

Due to its position (at the junction of Europe and Asia, subtropical, temperate and arid climates) and altitudinal zonation, Georgia has extremely diverse landscapes (mountain glaciers, alpine meadows, forests and subtropics), nature, flora and fauna. The climate is transitional, from temperate to subtropical.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit Georgia is May-June and September. At this time, the weather is usually great, there are not many tourists, and hotel prices are reasonable. In Tbilisi and some other cities, July and August can be quite hot. It is better to go to the Black Sea resorts from July to October.

Story

The first state on the territory of modern Georgia arose in the middle of the first millennium BC. This was the kingdom of Colchis, which was located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea. Georgian historians believe that Colchis was a fairly developed state. The policies were founded by the local population, and the Greeks founded trading posts.

In the 4th century BC. e. The Kingdom of Kartli was founded, and around 300 BC. e. - the state of Iveria with its capital in Mtskheta. In the 1st century BC, Colchis was conquered by the Romans. In the 2nd century AD, Iveria (Kartli) became independent. In the 4th century, Christianity became the state religion. In the 4th-5th centuries, Iberia was dependent on Persia. During the reign of Vakhtang I Gorgasal, Iveria gained independence. Vakhtang also founded Tbilisi, where the capital of the kingdom was moved in the 6th century.

In the 7th century, the territory of Georgia was subjugated by the Arabs, who ruled it until the 9th century. The first mentions of the state of Georgia (Kartli) date back to the 10th century. After the expulsion of the Arabs, feudal states were formed: the Abkhazian kingdom, Kartli, Kakheti, Hereti. Georgia was unified under Bagrat III of the Bagratid dynasty. The 11th-12th centuries are the period of real prosperity of the Georgian state. Georgia achieved power under David IV the Builder and Queen Tamara and was one of the strongest powers in the region. In the 12th century, Georgia established strong relations with Russia.

In the 13th century, the country was conquered by the Mongols, who were expelled only a century later. In 1386-1403, Georgia experienced several invasions by Timur. In the 15th century, the Georgian kingdom fell into decline and split into several states. The country was later divided between Turkey and Iran. In the 18th century, under Heraclius II, the Turks were expelled, and Georgia accepted the protectorate of the Russian Empire.

In 1800, Georgia became part of Russia. Joining the Russian Empire saved the Georgian people from genocide and assimilation by the Turks and Persians. After the October Revolution, Georgia declared its independence, but already in 1921 it became part of the USSR. In 1991 (after the breakup Soviet Union) the country became an independent state.

Administrative division

Administratively, Georgia is divided into 9 regions, two autonomous republics and one city of national importance.

• Abkhaz Autonomous Republic - Sukhumi
• Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti - Zugdidi
• Guria - Ozurgeti
• Autonomous Republic of Adjara - Batumi
• Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti - Ambrolauri
• Imereti - Kutaisi
• Samtskhe-Javakheti - Akhaltsikhe
• Shida Kartli - Gori
• Mtskheta-Mtianeti - Mtskheta
• Kvemo Kartli - Rustavi
• Kakheti - Telavi
• Tbilisi

• Kartli is the heart of Georgia, the center of Georgian culture. The ancient cities of Tbilisi, Mtskheta and Gori are located here.
• Rioni is the center of Western Georgia and the territory of ancient Colchis.
• Kakheti is a fertile region with a dry climate with picturesque valleys, vineyards and beautiful churches.
• Southwestern Georgia - subtropics and Black Sea resorts.
• Northwestern Georgia - Greater Caucasus ranges.
• Samtskhe-Javakheti - region with big amount Armenian ethnic population and interesting sights.

Population

More than 80% of the population are ethnic Georgians. Quite large diasporas are Armenians and Azerbaijanis. Georgians profess Orthodoxy. They are hospitable, sex-loving and temperamental people. Georgians respect their elders, honor traditions, and love songs and feasts.

Basic rules of conduct:

• Respect the traditions and history of Georgia.
• Avoid political debates and relations with Russia.
• Avoid parallels with neighboring Islamic cultures.
• Georgians are not that religious, but Orthodoxy here is quite conservative.

Transport

Airports are located in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi. The country's largest airport is, of course, in the capital. Georgia has regular flights from the majority major cities Europe, Asia and Russia, including: Moscow, Kyiv, London, Amsterdam, Prague, Istanbul, Riga, Minsk, Vilnius, Warsaw.

Bus service connects Georgia with the cities of Turkey, Russia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Trains run regularly on the Baku - Tbilisi route.

Cities of Georgia

Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia, home to a third of the population. It is an ancient city of contrasts with charming architecture and several famous ancient sites.

The second largest city and resort capital of Georgia. It is an interesting mixture of classical and modern buildings, as well as subtropical vegetation.

Borjomi is a picturesque small town where the famous mineral water.

Kutaisi is the ancient capital of Colchis and the third largest city in Georgia.

The ancient capital of Eastern Georgia and the center of the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Telavi is the capital of Kakheti, located near vineyards, ancient churches and monasteries.

Gori - hometown Stalin, near which there is an ancient rocky city.

Attractions

There are three sites on the territory of Georgia that are included in the UNESCO list.

Ancient monuments of Mtskheta:

• Jvari is an ancient 6th century monastery located at the confluence of the Kura. The first UNESCO monument in Georgia.
• Svetitskhoveli is a 12th-century cathedral and the main religious building of Georgia.
• Samtavro is another ancient monastery at the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi.

Gelati Monastery and Bagrati Temple in Kutaisi. Gelati Monastery is a medieval monastery founded by David the Builder. Bagrati Temple is a medieval temple that played an important role in the history of Georgia. David IV was crowned here.

Upper Svaneti

Upper Svaneti is a picturesque valley on the Inguri River. It is famous for its medieval buildings: residential towers and ancient stone churches.

Other attractions

Kazbek is one of the largest peaks in Georgia and the Caucasus. Represents dormant volcano and has a height of 5033 meters.

Bakuriani is one of the main ski resorts in Georgia, located on the slopes of the Trialeti ridge.

Shatili is a picturesque village on the slopes of the Main Caucasus Range on the border with Russia. It is a unique complex of medieval and early modern fortresses and fortified houses made of stone.

Uplistsikhe - ancient cave city, founded in the first millennium BC. Was located on the ancient Silk Road. It is located 12 km from the town of Gori. This is one of ancient settlements Georgia, which was abandoned in the 19th century.

Vardzia is a 12th century cave monastery. This is one of the most striking sights of Georgia, located in the south of the country on a cliff off the coast of the Kura River.

David Gareja is an ancient cave monastery from the 6th century with beautiful frescoes. Located 60 km from Tbilisi right on the border of Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Accommodation

The tourist popularity of Georgia is steadily growing, which contributes to the growth in the number of hotels and tourism infrastructure. Although hotel prices in Tbilisi and Kutaisi are often a bit high and service can often be far from high European standards, Georgia is the place to find inexpensive hotel or apartments, as well as feel the cordiality and hospitality of their owners.

Kitchen

Georgian cuisine is delicious, soulful and versatile. It includes a large amount of meat, spices, and various sauces. You can eat very inexpensively in Georgia. Popular traditional dishes: khachapuri, khinkali, mtsvadi (kebab), pkhali, chakapuli, churchkhela, chashushuli.

Popular traditional products include chacha, Georgian wine (saperavi, kindzmarauli, khvanchkara, tsinandali, rkatsiteli), suluguni cheese, mineral water (Borjomi), and fruits.

About Georgia

Georgia is a unique country with ancient history and culture, friendly people who are famous throughout the world for their hospitality. This is a country majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities and distinctive traditions.

IN Georgia each of us will find something of our own, because in this country, without traveling long distances, you can see the entire planet - there are mountains, forests, valleys, plains, rivers, the sea, and even deserts. This is a country year-round holiday. In winter, the famous ski resorts of Gudauri and Bakuriani await us for vacation, in summer - magnificent beaches and resorts of Adjara, spring and autumn are the best time for excursion, health, gastronomic and wedding tours! Georgia attracts tourists from all over the world. This mysterious country enchants them with its secrets, hospitable people, vibrant and rich cuisine, stunning nature and much more.

Geography. Georgia is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, in the central and western part of Transcaucasia. In the west it is washed by the Black Sea and borders Turkey, in the south it borders with Armenia, in the east with Azerbaijan, and through the Caucasus Range in the north with Russia. The capital and largest city of the country is Tbilisi.

The territory of Georgia occupies 69,700 square meters. km, mostly mountainous, more than a third covered with dense forests. The highest point of the Caucasus Range is Mount Shkhara (5068 m). The Lesser Caucasus Range runs through the south of the country, here are the most high points do not exceed 3000 meters.

The capital, Tbilisi, is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Georgia, with almost 1,700 years of history and about 1.5 million inhabitants. Translated from Georgian, Tbilisi means Warm.

The official language is Georgian.

State structure- unitary parliamentary-presidential republic.

Climate.N in the west of the country the climate is subtropical, in the east it is transitional from subtropical to temperate. Summer is hot and long. average temperature August almost throughout the country is +23–26 °C.

Population. The country's population is about 5 million. The vast majority of the population of Georgia are Orthodox Christians (83.9%).

Visa.G Citizens of Belarus and stateless persons permanently residing in the Republic of Belarus do not require a visa to visit Georgia, provided that the duration of the visit does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. Attention!!! If your passport contains notes about visiting Abkhazia or South Ossetia entry into the territory of Georgia will be denied, including arrest and deportation.

The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Georgia and must have at least 2 blank pages for stamping.

Time. The time difference with Minsk is plus 1 hour.

Money. Lari (GEL). 1 lari = 100 tetri. There are both metal coins and paper banknotes. You can exchange money at bank branches or exchange offices. There is no commission for currency exchange at Georgian exchange offices. You can pay using a credit card in hotels, large restaurants and shops. In case of unexpected expenses, you can receive money throughout the country through the Western Union system.

Transport. Various types of public transport are common in Georgia: buses, minibuses, taxis, and there is a metro in Tbilisi. The country has a developed network railways. Working 3 international airport in Batumi, Kutaisi and Tbilisi.

Connection.Georgia's dialing code is +995.

The shops. Shops are usually open from 9-10 am to 6-7 pm, many modern shops in Tbilisi follow a 12-hour opening hours: from 9 to 21 or from 10 to 22, and supermarkets are often open around the clock. Markets and fairs open from 5-6 am and close shortly after noon.

TAX FREE. Using the TAX FREE system foreign citizens there is an opportunity to return value added tax after leaving Georgia. The product must be purchased from a store that has the right to issue a special receipt for the refund of VAT, and the delivery of the product must be subject to VAT. The purchase price must exceed 200 Georgian lari in one receipt. Removal of goods must occur no later than three months after arrival. The product must be packaged in a special sealed plastic bag in which the seller places the product, the integrity of the seal must be maintained. A special receipt for VAT refund is required. The goods reflected in a special receipt for VAT refund must be completely exported from the territory of Georgia.

Story. Georgia is the intersection of two greatest cultures - the culture of the West and the culture of the East. Many centuries ago, the main roads of the Great Silk Road passed here. The first mention of the creation of the Georgian state dates back to the distant 10th century. In these ancient times, several Georgian principalities united into one single state, which, however, did not last very long - only three centuries. The “Golden Age” of Georgia occurred between the beginning of the 11th and the beginning of the 13th centuries. The peak of its prosperity is considered to be the reign of Queen Tamara, nicknamed the Great (1184-1210). In the 18th century Georgian principalities were able to unite again, and later most of them became part of the Russian Empire. Georgia has always been and today remains a multinational, hospitable country.

Attractions. For thousands of years, Georgia has accumulated its cultural baggage, from time immemorial to the present day, and thanks to traditions and love for its homeland, it has been carefully preserved for posterity. Cyclopean fortresses, ancient cities and temples, breathtaking landscapes that open up for viewing from observation platforms and mountain serpentines, karst caves, dinosaur tracks near Kutaisi, the most ancient wine cellars in the world, stylish modern architecture along with twisted Tbilisi balconies - all this will not leave any tourist indifferent.

There are about 150 museums and 12,000 historical monuments, of which 3 are included in the list of world cultural heritage UNESCO: Mtskheta - city-museum, ancient capital of Georgia; the architectural complex of Gelati, including a medieval academy, a central temple with unique mosaic frescoes and tombs of Georgian kings; upper Svaneti with its historical towers.

Kitchen. Georgian cuisine takes a well-deserved place on the culinary Olympus. Food for Georgians is one of the most important parts of Georgian culture. The basis of the cuisine, contrary to popular belief, is not meat, but a variety of dairy and vegetable products, as well as cereals, from which everyday dishes are mainly prepared. Among the meat dishes, the most typical ones are “mtsvadi” kebab, unique “khinkali” dumplings made from lamb richly seasoned with herbs and spices, “Lori” ham, fried or smoked “kupaty” sausages, “buglama” lamb stewed with spices, boiled meat with seasonings “ khashlama", hot liver dish "Kuchmachi", loin on a spit, "chanakhi", various types of pilaf, fried beef fillet "basturma", "kaurma", giblet broth with garlic "hashi", soup "kharcho", cold soup from by-products “muzhuzhi” (more like jellied meat), “bozbashi” with lamb, etc. Poultry dishes are everywhere on the table - the famous “satsivi” of all types, poultry broth seasoned with flour, vinegar-egg mixture and onions - “chikhirtma”, the famous “chakhokhbili” and “tabaka” chickens, chicken soup with nuts, scrambled eggs with nuts, chicken stuffed with rice, as well as a variety of fish - with “tsotskhali” sauce, trout with nuts, fish kebab, etc. Well and, of course, greens. This is both the basis of the kitchen and its main asset. A Georgian table is simply unthinkable without greens and a wide variety of vegetables.

Georgian cheese deserves special compliments. Many varieties of cheese are made - “Suluguni” from Western Georgia, young cheese with mint “Gadazelili” from Imereti, lamb cheese “Guda” from Teuleti, Tushino and Kobi cheeses from Javakheti, fried Suluguni or cheese soup - all this is only a tiny part of the application cheese in this country. Greens and cheese are used as an ingredient in almost every Georgian dish!

National pride Georgian is, of course, wine! It was in Georgia that the culture of grape cultivation and winemaking arose. Back in the 6th millennium BC, people living in these places produced wine. Georgian wines are something special! These wines are not like the wines of other countries. Unlike France or Italy, in Georgia wines are aged not in glass bottles, but in special jugs - “qvevri”. Largely thanks to this, Georgian wines have such a unique, original taste! Here are just some brands of Georgian wines - “Kindzmarauli”, “Manavi”, “Mukuzani”, “Napareuli”, “Alazani Valley”, “Akhasheni”, “Khvanchkara”, “Tsolikouri”, “Chkhaveri”, “Argveta”, “Kardanakhi” ", "Khirsa", "Psou", "Samo", "Yeniseli", etc.

Holidays in Georgia. Thanks to the state program for the development of tourism, the ultra-modern resort city of Batumi has grown on the Black Sea coast of Georgia. Once famous for its cargo port, today Batumi has become a mecca for seaside holidays. Modern hotels, entertainment complexes, a huge number of bars, restaurants and beach bungalows are located on the city streets and on the seaside boulevard right by the sea, nightclubs and casinos are within walking distance regardless of your vacation spot. In addition to Batumi, smaller resorts are also extremely popular among vacationers - Kobuleti, Ureki, Anaklia, Kvariati, etc. A huge advantage of most Georgian resorts is the unity of beauty (the beaches on one side are washed by the sea, on the other, framed by mountains) and balneological health opportunities.

Balneological and health resorts Georgia: Borjomi, Tskhaltubo, Sairme, Abastumani. Georgia has long been known for its health resorts thanks to the presence of unique mineral waters and a combination of mountain and sea air. There are 22 main sources of mineral waters on the territory of the republic, the most famous of which are Zvare, Sairme, Nabeglavi, Borjomi, etc. Georgia supplies its healing mineral water to more than 25 countries of the world.

The oldest health resorts from the times of the Russian Empire and the Soviet period are now experiencing a rebirth. In Borjomi, new sanatoriums and boarding houses are being revived and built, medical buildings In the famous Tskaltubo, health procedures using radon waters have again begun; in Abastumani and Bakuriani they continue to be treated with the unique healing properties of the local mountain air.

One of the most popular types of recreation in Georgia is undoubtedly a vacation in the mountains. The purest mountain air and incredible landscapes, rafting on mountain rivers, mountaineering, trekking and hiking hiking trips, mountain biking attracts lovers from year to year active rest to the Caucasus mountains. Many marked routes make active tourism in Georgia attractive to everyone.

Winter holidays in Georgia, of course, it is primarily associated with alpine skiing and snowboarding. Considering that about 70% of the territory is occupied mountain systems Greater and Lesser Caucasus Ranges, ski resorts in Georgia are among the most popular winter resorts in the vastness of the CIS. The most famous ski resort Georgia can be called a village Gudauri, located on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Range. Many kilometers of pistes, endless opportunities for freeride and off-piste skiing, modern cable cars and cozy chalets annually attract thousands of skiers and snowboarders.

Tours to Georgia are relevant at any time of the year! Flights to Georgia are offered from Minsk or Moscow. Direct flights are operated from Minsk to Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi.

Souvenirs. From Georgia you can bring many unique souvenirs and gifts for friends. Among the main ones: wine; chacha - Georgian grape vodka; Georgian sweets - churchkhela, dried persimmon, pastila, baklava, gozinaki, a wheel of real Georgian suluguni cheese; seasonings or in Georgian - hops-suneli; kubdari, lobiani and khachapuri; wine horn; dagger, saber, gun; highlander costume, national costume; Jewelry self made with Georgian cloisonne enamel; magnets, keychains, postcards, the flag of Georgia, decorative plates, cups and T-shirts with various national designs, etc. Georgian scarves are often brought from Georgia. Tourists love to buy daggers. But in this case, a document confirming the purchase is required, which is taken immediately in the store.

Welcome to hospitable Georgia!

Republic of Georgia – beautiful country with a rich history, hospitable people and amazing beauty nature. This country has everything for tourists: magnificent architecture, national color and, of course, world-famous Georgian hospitality.

Georgia is a country located in the central and western part of Transcaucasia. The area is 69,700 km2, 2/3 of the territory is occupied by mountains. In the north of the state there is the Greater Caucasus Range where the most high peak state - Shkhara, which has a height of 5068 m.

Climatic conditions

Climatic conditions in Georgia are different. On the border Black Sea coast, in summer it is warm and humid, temperature from + 24 to + 26 degrees. Winters here are mild from + 5 to – 6 degrees.

In lowland areas, summer is hotter from + 28 to +30 C, sometimes reaching + 40 degrees. Winters are cooler from +2 to – 4. In the highlands the temperature reaches minus 18 degrees.

The wettest region of the Georgian Republic, with a subtropical climate, receives about 5500 mm of precipitation per year. Influenced by the Caspian and Black Seas, the eastern territories have a more temperate continental climate - from 500 to 1600 mm of precipitation per year.

State structure

Based on the constitution adopted in August 1995, Georgia is a presidential republic. The main legislative body is the parliament, elected for 4 years. The capital of the country is Tbilisi, the state currency is lari.

Attention! Is Georgia a republic or a state? A state is a political organization by society that extends its power over a certain territory. According to the form of government, states are:

• monarchies;
• republics.

A republican form of government is a form of government in which all government bodies are elected for a certain period of time. Thus, a republic is one of the forms of government.

According to the law, the head of state is the president, elected by vote for a term of 5 years. The head of state cannot occupy the main post of the country more than two times in a row.

The executive branch is headed by the Prime Minister, who is also the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the army and the main representative of the state on foreign policy. Officially, the state includes:

• autonomous republics: Abkhazia and Adjara;
• 10 edges;
• 59 municipalities;
• 4 cities of republican designation: Batumi, Kutaisi, Poti, Rustavi.

In fact, the unrecognized republics are not subordinate to the Georgian authorities. These OSCE territories and a number of Western countries are considered occupied by the Russian Federation.

Is Georgia Russia?

People are often interested in the question: is Georgia Russia or not? This confusion occurs for several reasons. The first - from the 19th century, the Republic of Georgia was part of the Russian Empire, and in the 20th century, the USSR. And only after the collapse of the Soviet Union it became an independent state.

The second reason is the Abkhaz and South Ossetian conflict, which ended in 2008 with the “Five Day War”. After which these territories were recognized by the Russian Federation as independent, sovereign republics.

Attention! There is a visa-free regime between Russia, Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and citizens Russian Federation can visit these territories using a general passport.

According to the international status, the territories of these republics are part of Georgia, but in fact they are not subordinate to the Georgian authorities. Answering the question about the sovereignty of Georgia, we can say with confidence that today, Georgia is a sovereign, independent state that is not part of the Russian Federation.

Name

The official name of Georgia within the state is “Sakartvelo”. Comes from the cradle of Georgian statehood, one of the main historical and geographical regions - “Kartli”. In Europe, wears official name– georgia or georgian, in honor of St. George, who is the patron saint of Georgian lands.

Attention! According to some information, in the Middle Ages there were about 370 churches of St. George in the state.

In the Russian version, the name “Georgia”, according to some information, appeared from the Arab-Persian “Gurj” or “Gurzhistan”, which can be translated as “country of wolves”.

Population of the country

At the beginning of 2019, the country’s inhabitants numbered 3,729,600 people, of which the overwhelming majority are Georgians - 86%; in addition, according to the national statistical service, the following people live in the state:

• Azerbaijanis – 6.3%;
• Armenians – 4.5%;
• Russians – 0.7%;
• Ossetians – 0.4%, etc.

Attention! The military invasion of South Ossetia by the Georgian army is known as the “Five Day War”. It involved the armed forces of Russia, South Ossetia, Abkhazia on the one hand, and Georgia on the other. The result of the fighting was the forcing of Georgia to peace and the complete loss of Georgia's control over Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The military contingent of Russian peacekeepers in this region has been increased.

Historical chronicle

Georgian statehood begins from the times of Diaokhi and Colchis, formed in the 12th – 8th centuries BC. e. In the 4th century BC. e. In the eastern part of present-day Georgia, the Iberian kingdom was formed, which lasted until the 6th century AD.

The country experienced periods of unification and splits in the 11th – 12th centuries, thanks to David the Builder, Queen Tamara and George III, Georgia was united and gained independence, becoming the largest power in the region.

From the 13th to 15th centuries, the state experienced destructive raids by the Mongol hordes. In 1783, Irakli II signed the Treaty of Georgievsk, on the basis of which the state came under the full protectorate of Russia.

In 1918, thanks to the efforts of the Social Democrats, against the backdrop of disagreement with the terms of signing the Brest Peace, the Georgian Democratic Republic was formed. In 1921, the army of the RSFSR entered Georgia, as a result of which Soviet power was established.

Attention! In the same year, after the Red Army established Soviet power, the parliament of the Democratic Republic of Georgia decided to move and continue its activities abroad. In exile, parliamentarians called themselves the “National Government of Georgia.”

The following year, the GSSR became part of the Transcaucasian Socialist Federative Soviet Republic, and in 1936, the GSSR became a union republican cell in the USSR.

After the collapse of the Union in 1991, a referendum declared the independence of the Republic of Georgia from the USSR. More than 90% of the population took part in the voting, 98% of them voted to secede from the Soviet Union. Only in the regions: Abkhazia and South Ossetia announced a different attitude in this regard. Which resulted in the desire of the republics to secede from Georgia.

Bottom line

Despite the fact that Georgia left the CIS, Russians can stay on its territory for 90 days without a visa. To do this, you don’t even need to visit the embassy - all documents are processed at the border, upon crossing which you will need to pay a standard fee of 50 lari (about 30 dollars).

True, there is a rather important point - you will not be able to get to Georgia through the territories of the unrecognized republics: South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The Georgian Border Service may regard this as illegal border crossing. Therefore, plan your route in advance because Georgia is a unique state with a rich history, picturesque nature and hospitable people, which is definitely worth a visit.

Georgia is a country in the western part of Transcaucasia. Satellite map Georgia shows that the country borders Russia, Armenia, Turkey and Azerbaijan. In the east it is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. De jure, Georgia includes the territories of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, which are considered occupied by Russia.

The country is divided into 10 regions and two autonomous republics (Abkhazia and South Ossetia). Largest cities– Tbilisi (capital), Kutaisi, Batumi, Rustavi and Zugdidi.

The economy of Georgia is based on light and food industries, agriculture and metal ore mining. Over the past few years, the economic situation of the state has largely depended on external financing and investment inflows.

Mount Kazbek in Georgia

Brief history of Georgia

XII-VIII centuries BC e. – states of Diaokhi and Colchis

VI century BC e. – Colchis State

IV-III centuries BC e. – Iberian kingdom

63 – Colchis becomes part of the Roman Empire

XI-XIII centuries – golden age of Georgia

1460 – collapse of Georgia into several kingdoms

Sighnaghi city in Kakheti

1801-1864 – the states of Georgia are part of the Russian Empire

1864-1918 - as part of the Russian Empire

1918-1921 – Georgian Democratic Republic

1922 – Georgian SSR

1991 – independent state of Georgia

1992-1993 – Civil War in Abkhazia

2003 – velvet revolution of roses

2008 – war in South Ossetia

Old city Tbilisi and Narikala fortress

Sights of Georgia

On detailed map Georgia from a satellite can be seen that about 7% of the country’s territory is occupied by nature reserves and National parks. Among the natural attractions are the Vashlovani and Borjomi-Kharagauli national parks, Mount Kazbek, Cross (Gudaur) Pass and Lake Paravani.

Numerous religious attractions have been preserved on the territory of Georgia: ancient temples, monasteries and churches. Among them are the monasteries of Samtavro, Motsameta and Gelati, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Gergeti Church and Metekhi Church.

Motsameta Monastery

It is worth visiting historical sights such as the Old Town and the Narikala fortress in Tbilisi, the cave city of Uplistsikhe, the fortresses of Khertvisi and Ananuri, the village of Mestia and rock city Vardzia.

Finally, many come to Georgia to relax on the beaches of the Black Sea and enjoy Georgian wine, cuisine and mineral waters.