Georgia – 15 interesting facts
Once this page was incredibly boring, introducing the brief history of Georgia. I thought a lot about how to introduce my country. I wanted to do it in a fun and interesting way. My goal is to encourage people to travel to Georgia.
Finally, I decided to write fun key facts about Georgia, which you might have heard but might not know.
Why Travel to Georgia?
Look, I could give you the typical tourist board speech, but let me be honest: Georgia will surprise you.
Most people have never heard of us, or they confuse us with the American state. That’s actually perfect—it means you get to discover a country before it becomes overcrowded with tourists.
Here’s what actually makes Georgia special:
Georgia sits at the crossroads where Europe kisses Asia. We’ve got mountains that rival the Alps (actually taller—Mount Shkhara at 5,193m), but without the Swiss price tag. A three-course meal with wine? That’ll cost you about 15 euros. A beautiful guesthouse in the mountains? Maybe 20-30 euros per night.
The food and wine thing is real. We invented wine 8,000 years ago—not France, not Italy—us. And our cuisine is nothing like you’ve tasted. Forget generic “Eastern European” food. Khachapuri (cheese bread) is basically a hug in food form, and khinkali (soup dumplings) have a cult following. You’ll eat better here than in most European capitals, at a fraction of the cost.
The landscapes are absurdly diverse. In one week, you can stand on a semi-tropical Black Sea beach, hike through alpine meadows where medieval stone towers still stand, explore cave cities carved into cliffs, and walk through wine regions that look like Tuscany’s wilder cousin. We pack 12 climate zones into a country the size of Ireland.
But here’s the secret ingredient: the people. Georgian hospitality isn’t a marketing slogan—it’s a 3,000-year-old tradition. “Guest is a gift from God” is something we actually believe. You’ll get invited to family dinners, shepherds will share their cheese with you on mountain trails, and winemakers will insist you try “just one more” glass from their cellar.
The capital, Tbilisi, is gritty and gorgeous at the same time. Wooden balconies lean over narrow streets. Sulfur bathhouses steam underground. A Persian mosque sits beside an Armenian church and a synagogue. At night, the old town glows, and Georgians spill out of wine bars singing polyphonic songs that predate Christianity.
Is it perfect? No. Our roads can be bumpy, English isn’t everywhere, and we’re still recovering from Soviet times. But that’s part of the charm. Georgia feels real, unpolished, and genuinely welcoming—not theme-park tourism.
So why travel to Georgia? Because you’ll find something you didn’t know you were looking for.
- 1
The Birthplace Of Wine!
Envisioning a world devoid of wine is challenging, and we owe its inception to Georgia! For a minimum of 8,000 years, Georgians have been crafting and refining this delightful drink. The winemaking technique that uses a clay jar called a Qvevri is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
- 2
Georgians Love Hosting Guests!
In Georgia, it’s a common belief that guests are blessings from God. During a ‘supra’ (a customary Georgian banquet), hosts greet their visitors with great warmth.
The ‘tamada’ (master of ceremonies) guarantees your satisfaction with food and entertainment. Make sure to raise your glass and say “Gaumarjos”, which is the Georgian way of saying “cheers”. However, be cautious not to consume more alcohol than your limit.
- 3
Tbilisi’s Name Originates From The Georgian Term For Warm
Despite Tbilisi’s subtropical climate, which can become rather chilly in winter, its warm moniker doesn’t stem from this. The name comes from the natural hot springs discovered in the 4th century. This is how the city got its name, Tbilisi.
- 4
Georgia Is Sakartvelo In Georgian
We call it Sakartvelo and we are Kartveli, which derives from a central region in Georgia – Kartli. A discussion about where the name Georgia comes from also exists. Does it come from St. George, the country’s patron saint?
Or does it come from Georgi, the Greek word for farming tribes? It might also come from the Persian-Arabic word Gurg, which means wolf land. The definitive answer may forever remain a mystery!
- 5
We Speak Our Own Unique Language
The Georgian language is unique. Greek and Iranian languages have influenced it. This influence helped create its own alphabet. The language has undergone three different versions in its history, but the current language consists of 33 letters.
- 6
Renowned for its polyphonic music, the region attracts many enthusiasts.
Polyphonic music is a type of choral folk music sung by two or more people. Its traditions date back to before Christianity arrived in Georgia in the early 4th century AD.
- 7
It Boasts 12 Distinct Climate Zones
Georgia has a climate that ranges from subtropical to semi-desert and even alpine. This makes it one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world.
- 8
The Highest Mountain Range in Europe is the Caucasus
Contrary to popular belief, the Alps are not the tallest mountain range in Europe. The Caucasus Mountains, straddling the border of Georgia and Russia, hold this distinction.
The highest peak, Elbrus, is in Russia. Georgia’s tallest mountain, Shkhara, is 5,193 meters high. The height is about 400 meters taller than Mont Blanc.
- 9
Georgia Boasts 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
King David IV founded the Gelati monastery complex in the 12th century. The site is famous for its beautiful architecture, detailed frescoes, and rich cultural history. It served as a religious, educational, and artistic hub, featuring the impressive Cathedral of the Virgin.
Mtskheta is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is an important cultural landmark in Georgia and has a history of over 3,000 years. Once the capital of Iberia, it features UNESCO sites like Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, showcasing its rich history and religious importance.
Upper Svaneti, in the Caucasus Mountains, is famous for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and medieval towers. Home to the Svan people, this area has rich traditions and beautiful hiking trails. It also offers traditional cuisine. This makes it a great place for adventurers and culture lovers.
- 10
Experience Life in Europe’s Loftiest Habitation Here
Located in the mountain area of Svaneti, the old villages of Ushguli are the highest in Europe. They sit at an impressive 2,100 meters above sea level. The breathtaking scenery makes it clear why they decided to establish their homes here!
In Tusheti village Borotma also pretends to be the highest one and it is 2200m. But no one inhabited it in winter. Several years ago one man desided to stay there in winter too. But anyway, only Ushguli truly houses 60 families as their permanent home.
- 11
Georgia is Home to the World’s Deepest Cave
If you love caves, you would love to visit the Veryovkina Cave. The Gagra Mountain range in the western Caucasus hosts it. With a depth of 2,212 meters, it holds the record for being the deepest cave on the planet!
Currently, this territory is occupied by Russia.
- 12
Georgia’s Jewish Community Is One Of The Oldest In The World
Georgian Jews are one of the oldest Jewish communities. They have a history of 2,600 years. They have greatly influenced Georgia’s culture, economy, and society since ancient times.
Georgian Jews have kept their unique identity and customs while blending into Georgian culture. They developed the Judeo-Georgian dialect, which shows their heritage and ability to adapt.
- 13
Georgia: The Cradle of the First Europeans
Researchers found the oldest Homo Georgicus skulls in Dmanisi, located in the Caucasus. Researchers named them Zezva and Mzia. These skulls are about 1.8 million years old. Experts consider them a crucial connection between African and European forebears.
- 14
Georgia: The Birthplace of Joseph Stalin
His birth took place in the city of Gori in 1878, which was then a part of the Russian Empire.
And we are not proud of him.
- 15
Visiting Georgia is Extremely Secure
Georgia, ranked the 7th safest country to visit in 2017, boasts a stable political climate, low crime rates, and friendly locals. This culturally rich country sits at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It attracts travelers with its unique experiences, stunning landscapes, and rich history.
Tbilisi, the capital, has a lively mix of modern and traditional influences. However, be careful near the Russian border because of past conflicts. Overall, Georgia provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for tourists, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit.
Regions of Georgia Administrative division of Georgia
Practical Information: What You Actually Need to Know
Georgia is easier to visit than you think. Cheap flights, no visa hassles, low costs, safe streets, and incredible experiences. The hardest part is leaving.
Ready to book? Check out our guided tours or contact us for a custom itinerary. We’ll help you skip the tourist traps and find the real Georgia.
Administrative division of Georgia – Country is divided into 9 regions, 2 autonomous republics, and the capital Tbilisi. Regions themselves are divided into municipalities and districts. There are 71 districts in Georgia. The modern division is more or less based on the historical province division.
Regions and districts of Georgia:
- Tbilisi – Capital of Georgia
- Kakheti consists of the historical Kakheti province, Kiziki, and Tusheti. Capital of Kakheti is city Telavi.
- Sagarejo
- Gurjaani
- Signagi – historical Kiziki
- Dedoplistskaro – historical Kiziki
- Lagodekhi
- Telavi
- Kvareli
- Akhmeta – the north part of the district is the historical province of Tusheti
- Shida Kartli – Historical Kartli region, the northern part is occupied by Russians, so-called South Ossetia. The capital of the region is the city of Gori.
- Gori – the north part of the district is occupied
- Kaspi
- Kareli – north part of the district is occupied
- Khashuri
- Java – occupied
- Kvemo Kartli – Historical provinces Kartli and Trialeti. Capital city Rustavi.
- Rustavi city
- Marneuli
- Bolnisi
- Dmanisi
- Gardabani
- Tetritskaro
- Tsalka
- Mtskheta-Mtianeti – consists of Aragvi gorge, Ksani gorge, and provinces Gudamakari, Khevi, Mtiuleti, and Khevsureti. Ksani gorge is occupied by Russians, so-called South Ossetia. Capital – Mtskheta.
- Mtskheta – the ancient capital of Georgia
- Tianeti
- Akhalgori – occupied
- Dusheti
- Kazbegi
- Samtskhe-Javakheti – consists of the historical provinces Meskheti, Javakheti, and Tori. Capital Akhaltsikhe.
- Borjomi – former Tori province
- Akhaltsikhe – Former Meskheti province
- Adigeni – Former Meskheti province
- Aspindza – Former Meskheti province
- Akhalkalaki – Former Javakheti province
- Ninotsminda – Former Javakheti province
- Imereti – based on the historical province Imereti. Capital city Kutaisi.
- Kutaisi city
- Kharagauli
- Sachkhere – partly occupied
- Chiatura
- Tkibuli
- Tskaltubo
- Zestaponi
- Bagdati
- Vani
- Terjola
- Samtredia
- Khoni
- Racha Lechkhumi Kvemo Svaneti – Consists of historical provinces Racha, Lechkhumi, and Kvemo Svaneti. Capital Ambrolauri.
- Ambrolauri – Lower Racha
- Oni – Upper Racha
- Tsageri – Lechkhumi
- Lentekhi – Kvemo (lower) Svaneti
- Guria – former province Guria. Capital – Ozurgeti
- Ozurgeti
- Lanchkhuti
- Chokhatauri
- Samegrelo – Zemo Svaneti consists of the provinces Samegrelo and upper Svaneti. Capital Zugdidi.
- Zugdidi
- Poti city
- Senaki
- Abasha
- Khobi
- Martvili
- Tsalenjikha
- Chkhorotsku
- Mestia – upper Svaneti
- Achara Autonomous Republic – capital Batumi.
- Batumi city
- Kobuleti
- Khelvachauri
- Keda
- Shuakhevi
- Khulo
- Abkhazia Autonomous Republic – occupied, Capital Sokhumi.
- Sokhumi
- Gali
- Gagra
- Gudauta
- Gulripshi
- Ochamchire
It is strongly recommended before visiting partly occupied districts to check out where is possible to go without risk. If you travel on your own, ask local authorities where is possible to go and where not. It is NOT recommended to visit fully occupied regions. Visiting those regions from the Russian side is prohibited.
