Sakartvelo

Sakartvelo is the Georgian name for the country of Georgia. This nation is situated at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, bordered by the Black Sea to the west, Russia to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south, and Azerbaijan to the southeast. Its diverse geography encompasses the Greater Caucasus Mountains in the north, fertile plains, and subtropical coastlines. Georgia boasts an ancient and rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era. It was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity as its state religion in the early 4th century CE.

The country's cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its history, featuring unique traditions, a distinct alphabet, and a renowned cuisine and wine-making tradition, which is considered one of the oldest in the world. Tbilisi, the capital and largest city, is a vibrant metropolis showcasing a blend of medieval, neoclassical, and Soviet-era architecture. Georgia has faced periods of foreign domination throughout its history, including by the Persian, Ottoman, and Russian empires, before regaining its independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Since then, the nation has been working to establish its democratic institutions and integrate with Western structures, including aspiring membership in the European Union and NATO. The economy relies on agriculture, tourism, and a growing service sector.