Georgia Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Georgia, State of Western Caucasus, Northwest Asia; 69,700 km², 3.7 million residents (2019).Georgia borders Azerbaijan in the east, Armenia in the south, Turkey in the southwest and the Russian Federation in the north. In the west, Georgia has a coast to the Black Sea. The capital is Tbilisi (1.1 million residents, 2018).

Country facts

Sakartvelo / Georgia
Country abbreviation: GE
Area: 69 700 km²
Population (2019): 3.7 million residents
Capital: Tbilisi
Main language: Georgian
State: Republic
Head of State: Salomé Zurabishvili (President)
Head of Government: Giorgi Gakharia
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 4 345
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 4 130
Coin unit: 1 lari = 100 tetri
Currency code: GEL
Country number (telephony): 995
Internet Domain Names: ge
Time difference compared to Sweden: +3
National Day: May 26 (Independence Day, 1918)

Nature

Land use: forest (39%), agricultural land (14%), other (47%)
Highest mountain: Sjchara (5,064 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 53 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.1%; birth rate 14 ‰, death rate 13 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (20%), 15-64 (65%), 65- (15%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 70 years, women 78 years
Infant mortality (2019): 8 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 4 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.780 (place 70 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 58%
Most populous cities (2018): Tbilisi (1.1 million residents), Batumi (163,400), Ktaisi (141,000)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (8%), industry (24%), service (68%)
Exports (2017): US $ 3,566 million
Main export products: vehicles, metal products, fertilizers
Main exporting countries: Russian Federation, Azerbaijan, Turkey
Imports (2017): US $ 7,415 million
Main import products: oil, vehicles, machinery
Main importing countries: Turkey, Russian Federation, China
Railway network (2014): 1,400 km

Geography of Georgia

Location and Borders

Georgia is a small country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, on the eastern shore of the Black Sea. It lies at the southern edge of the Caucasus mountain range, providing it with a varied landscape that has influenced its culture, economy, and history. Georgia shares borders with Russia to the north, Turkey to the southwest, Armenia to the south, and Azerbaijan to the southeast. This strategic location has made Georgia a historically significant region for trade, military campaigns, and cultural exchange between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Terrain and Landscape

The geography of Georgia is incredibly diverse, with dramatic differences between the coastal plains, fertile valleys, and rugged mountains. The country’s most notable feature is the Caucasus mountain range, which forms a natural border with Russia in the north. These mountains, including Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in the Caucasus, create a strikingly beautiful landscape with deep valleys and pristine rivers. The southern region of Georgia is home to the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, which are lower in elevation but still highly significant for their natural beauty and biodiversity.

Georgia’s western coast along the Black Sea features subtropical landscapes with lush vegetation and mild temperatures, contrasting with the dry and arid conditions found in the southeastern parts of the country. The fertile plains along the river valleys, such as the Rioni and the Mtkvari, are used for agriculture and are vital to the country’s economy.

Natural Resources

Georgia has a wealth of natural resources, which have been central to its economy throughout history. The country’s mountainous terrain provides an abundance of minerals, including manganese, copper, and gold. Georgia is also home to abundant forests, particularly in the western region, which play an essential role in the local economy, offering timber, fuel, and raw materials for construction. Additionally, Georgia has significant deposits of hydroelectric potential, with the rivers from the Caucasus mountains providing opportunities for energy generation.

The Black Sea coast supports fishing, while the country is known for producing excellent wine, one of its most important agricultural exports. The fertile soils in regions like Kakheti and the Tbilisi Basin make it an ideal place for cultivating various crops, including grapes, nuts, and vegetables.

Climate of Georgia

General Climate Zones

Georgia’s climate is highly influenced by its varied geography, which results in a number of different climate zones across the country. The coastal regions along the Black Sea experience a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and warm summers. This region’s climate is ideal for growing tea, citrus fruits, and other subtropical crops.

In contrast, the interior and mountainous regions of Georgia have a more continental climate. The capital, Tbilisi, experiences hot summers with temperatures often rising above 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. The Caucasus mountains create a significant climatic divide, with the high-altitude areas being colder and wetter than the lowland areas. In the mountainous regions, heavy snowfall occurs in winter, while summer temperatures are generally cooler.

Rainfall and Weather Patterns

Rainfall in Georgia varies significantly by region, largely depending on proximity to the Black Sea and elevation. The western part of the country receives a substantial amount of rainfall, especially in areas like Batumi, which sees an average of over 2,000 millimeters (79 inches) of rain annually. The climate here is conducive to lush vegetation, including subtropical forests and diverse wildlife.

On the other hand, the eastern part of the country, particularly in areas like the Kakheti wine region, experiences drier conditions with more distinct seasonal changes. This area receives less rainfall, which creates a more arid environment but is still favorable for agriculture, particularly the cultivation of grapes.

Environmental Challenges

Despite its rich natural resources, Georgia faces several environmental challenges. Deforestation, primarily in the western regions, has been a concern, and soil erosion remains a major issue, particularly in areas where agriculture is intensive. The country is also vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events like droughts and floods, which can disrupt agriculture and infrastructure. Additionally, environmental degradation due to mining and other industrial activities has led to some regions facing pollution and habitat loss.

People of Georgia

Ethnic Composition

Georgia is home to a diverse population, although it is primarily composed of ethnic Georgians, who make up about 86% of the population. Ethnic minorities, including Armenians, Azerbaijanis, Russians, and Ossetians, live in the country as well. The Armenians are mainly concentrated in the southern regions, while the Azerbaijanis are more prevalent in the southeastern areas. The Ossetians, who are of Iranian origin, live primarily in the breakaway region of South Ossetia, which is a source of tension between Georgia and Russia.

The Georgian people have a rich cultural identity, which is closely tied to their language, religion, and history. Georgian culture has been shaped by centuries of interaction with neighboring countries and empires, while also maintaining a strong sense of national pride and unique traditions.

Language and Religion

Georgian is the official language of Georgia and is part of the Kartvelian language family, which is unique to the Caucasus region. The Georgian language has its own script, which is considered one of the oldest and most distinctive writing systems in the world. Georgian is not related to any major language families in Europe or Asia, which gives it a unique linguistic and cultural status.

Christianity has played a central role in Georgia’s history and culture. The majority of Georgians (about 83%) adhere to the Georgian Orthodox Church, which is one of the oldest Christian denominations. The church has a long history in the country, with Georgia being one of the first countries to adopt Christianity as the state religion in the early 4th century. The influence of the Orthodox Church is visible in the country’s numerous monasteries, churches, and religious festivals.

Islam is also practiced by a significant minority, particularly among the Azerbaijani and Ossetian communities. There are also smaller communities of Jews, Armenians, and other religious groups living in the country.

Population and Demographics

As of 2023, Georgia has a population of around 3.7 million people, with the majority residing in urban areas, particularly the capital city, Tbilisi, which is home to over a third of the population. Tbilisi is the cultural and economic hub of the country and plays a significant role in shaping Georgia’s identity. Other major cities include Batumi, a port city on the Black Sea, and Kutaisi, located in the western part of the country.

The demographic trends in Georgia show an aging population, with a declining birth rate and an increasing number of people emigrating abroad in search of better economic opportunities. This trend is partly due to the political instability and economic challenges faced by the country in recent decades.

Economy of Georgia

Agriculture and Natural Resources

The economy of Georgia is largely based on agriculture, particularly the production of wine, fruits, and vegetables. The country has a long history of winemaking, dating back thousands of years, and is considered one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Georgia’s fertile soil and climate, especially in the regions of Kakheti and the valleys along the rivers, make it ideal for the cultivation of grapes.

In addition to wine, Georgia produces a range of other agricultural products, including tea, citrus fruits, hazelnuts, and tobacco. Livestock farming, especially of sheep, cattle, and poultry, is also an important part of the economy. Despite the country’s reliance on agriculture, the sector faces challenges such as limited access to modern farming techniques, poor infrastructure, and vulnerability to climate change.

Industry and Services

In recent years, Georgia has worked to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on agriculture. The service sector, particularly tourism, has seen significant growth, with Georgia becoming a popular destination for travelers due to its natural beauty, rich history, and warm climate. The country’s tourism sector includes both coastal tourism along the Black Sea and adventure tourism in the mountains, as well as cultural and historical tourism in cities like Tbilisi and Mtskheta.

The industrial sector is relatively small but growing. The country has a long tradition of mining and metallurgy, and it is rich in mineral resources, particularly manganese, which is a significant export. Georgia also produces chemicals, textiles, and machinery, although its industrial base remains underdeveloped compared to other European countries.

Economic Challenges

Georgia faces several economic challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and a dependence on imports for many goods and services. The country’s economic development has been hampered by political instability, particularly following the breakup of the Soviet Union and the subsequent conflicts with Russia over regions like Abkhazia and South Ossetia. However, Georgia has made significant strides in economic reform, improving its business environment, and integrating into the global economy.

The government has focused on attracting foreign investment, particularly in infrastructure and energy projects, as well as encouraging small and medium-sized enterprises. The country has also benefited from its status as a member of the World Trade Organization and its close relations with the European Union, which has provided access to trade and development assistance.

Government of Georgia

Political Structure

Georgia is a unitary republic with a democratic government. The political system is based on the 1995 constitution, which established the framework for a parliamentary republic. The government consists of three branches: the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary.

Executive: The President of Georgia serves as the head of state and has a largely ceremonial role, while the Prime Minister is the head of government and holds the executive powers. The Prime Minister is appointed by the parliament, and the role of the President has been gradually reduced in recent years.
Legislature: Georgia has a unicameral parliament, which consists of 150 members elected by the people. The parliament passes laws, approves the budget, and plays a key role in shaping domestic and foreign policy.
Judiciary: The judiciary in Georgia is independent, with the Supreme Court acting as the highest judicial authority in the country. The legal system is based on civil law principles, and the judiciary has made efforts to modernize and improve its transparency and efficiency.

Recent Political Developments

Georgia has undergone significant political changes since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The country has experienced periods of political instability, including the Rose Revolution in 2003, which resulted in the peaceful ousting of President Eduard Shevardnadze and ushered in a new era of reforms. Since then, Georgia has made progress in strengthening democratic institutions, although tensions with Russia over the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia have remained a source of conflict.

The government has prioritized Western integration, seeking closer ties with the European Union and NATO, though the country has faced challenges due to ongoing disputes with Russia and internal divisions over its political direction.

Culture of Georgia

Traditional Arts and Music

Georgia has a rich cultural heritage, with deep roots in both European and Asian traditions. Georgian music, with its polyphonic style, is known for its complexity and harmonies, and it is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. Folk instruments such as the panduri (a three-stringed lute) and the chonguri (a long-necked stringed instrument) are used in traditional music. The country is also famous for its dance, particularly the energetic and graceful performances of Georgian men, who showcase their strength and agility in dramatic dances.

Cuisine

Georgian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, reflecting the country’s geographic location and cultural influences. Staple foods include khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), and pkhali (vegetable pâtés). The cuisine incorporates a wide variety of meats, herbs, and spices, with dishes often featuring lamb, pork, and poultry. Georgia is also renowned for its wine, which is an integral part of both everyday life and celebrations. The wine is produced using ancient methods, including fermentation in clay vessels known as qvevri, a practice that has been passed down for thousands of years.

Festivals and Holidays

Georgia celebrates many religious and cultural festivals, with the most important being Christmas and Easter, which are celebrated according to the Orthodox Christian calendar. Traditional holidays such as Tbilisoba, a celebration of the capital city, and Vardavar, a water festival, highlight the country’s deep connection to its history, religious customs, and community life. Georgian hospitality is also a key aspect of its culture, with elaborate feasts and toasts playing an important role in social gatherings.

History of Georgia

Ancient Civilizations and the Kingdom of Colchis

Georgia has one of the oldest histories in the world, with archaeological evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic period. In ancient times, the region was home to several advanced civilizations, including the Kingdom of Colchis, known in Greek mythology as the home of Jason and the Argonauts. The Kingdom of Iberia (also called Kartli) rose to prominence in the early centuries of the Common Era, establishing a unified Georgian identity that persisted through various dynasties.

Medieval Georgia and the Kingdom of Georgia

The medieval period was marked by the rise of the unified Kingdom of Georgia in the 11th and 12th centuries, under the leadership of King David IV and his successor Queen Tamar. During this period, Georgia became a regional power, enjoying political stability, military victories, and cultural flourishing. The Golden Age of Georgia saw the construction of stunning churches, the development of Georgian literature, and a period of military conquests. However, following Queen Tamar’s death, Georgia was invaded by Mongols and later divided into smaller kingdoms.

Russian and Soviet Influence

In the 19th century, Georgia was incorporated into the Russian Empire, which led to a period of political upheaval and a complex relationship with Russia. After a brief period of independence following the Russian Revolution, Georgia was annexed by the Soviet Union in 1921. Under Soviet rule, Georgia experienced significant industrialization and modernization but also endured political repression and purges, particularly under Joseph Stalin, who was of Georgian descent.

Independence and Modern Challenges

Georgia declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, leading to the recognition of its sovereignty but also a period of political and territorial instability. Conflicts over regions such as Abkhazia and South Ossetia have continued to influence Georgia’s relationships with Russia, while the country has worked to integrate into European and global institutions. Political reforms and efforts to strengthen democracy have made Georgia an important player in the South Caucasus region, although it continues to face internal challenges and external threats from its neighbors.