Karthli

Karthli, also known as Kartli, is a historical and cultural region located in the eastern part of the Caucasus Mountains, primarily within the modern-day borders of Georgia. It has played a significant role in the political, economic, and cultural development of the Georgian state over centuries.

Geographically, Karthli encompasses the central and eastern parts of present-day Georgia, including the capital city of Tbilisi. The region is characterized by fertile valleys, such as the Mtkvari (Kura) River basin, which have supported agriculture and settlement since antiquity. The landscape ranges from lowland plains to mountainous terrain, influencing its historical development and strategic importance.

Historically, Karthli was the core of the medieval Kingdom of Georgia, which reached its golden age under the Bagrationi dynasty in the 12th and 13th centuries. The region served as the political and cultural center of the kingdom, with Tbilisi emerging as a major urban hub. Karthli was also a key battleground during the Ottoman-Safavid and later Russian-Georgian conflicts, often shifting between foreign domination and periods of independence.

Culturally, Karthli is deeply tied to Georgian identity, with its traditions, language, and religious heritage shaping broader Georgian civilization. The region is home to numerous historical monuments, including churches, fortresses, and monasteries, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Georgian Orthodox Church, with its patriarchate based in Mtskheta, a historic city in Karthli, remains a central institution in the region.

Today, Karthli continues to be an integral part of Georgia, contributing to its economic and cultural landscape. While administrative boundaries have evolved, the historical and cultural significance of Karthli endures as a symbol of Georgian statehood and resilience.