Bolnisi

Bolnisi is a town in the Kvemo Kartli region of Georgia, located in the southeastern part of the country. It is situated on the Bolnisi River, a tributary of the Mashavera River, approximately 50 kilometers south of the capital city, Tbilisi. The town is the administrative center of the Bolnisi Municipality, which encompasses a diverse landscape including agricultural areas and foothills.

Historically, the Bolnisi area has been inhabited for millennia, with evidence of early human settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. The region is particularly known for the Bolnisi Sioni Cathedral, an important example of early Georgian Christian architecture. This cathedral, built in the 5th century, is distinguished by its unique architectural features and inscriptions, including the oldest known Georgian inscriptions of the "asomtavruli" script. The archaeological site surrounding the cathedral has yielded significant findings that shed light on the early development of Georgian culture and religion.

Economically, Bolnisi and its surrounding municipality are largely agricultural. The fertile lands support the cultivation of grains, vegetables, and fruits. The region also has a history of mining, particularly for copper and gold, though this has seen fluctuations over time. Bolnisi is also part of a wine-producing region, with local vineyards contributing to Georgia's renowned winemaking tradition. The town serves as a local hub for trade and services for the surrounding rural communities.