Georgia
Georgia
- Capital
- Tbilisi
- Population
- 3,714,000
- Region
- Asia
- Languages
- Georgian
Georgia is widely considered the birthplace of wine, with archaeological evidence of viticulture dating back over 8,000 years. The traditional method involves fermenting grape juice in large, egg-shaped earthenware vessels called Qvevri, which are buried underground. This ancient technique is so culturally significant that it was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2013. Today, the country still cultivates more than 500 indigenous grape varieties that are found nowhere else on earth.
Currency
The official currency is the Lari, denoted by the ISO code GEL. When it was introduced in 1995 to replace the temporary coupon currency, its name was chosen because 'lari' is an ancient Georgian word meaning a hoard or property.
Flag symbolism
The national flag, known as the Five-Cross Flag, features a large red central cross on a white background, representing Saint George. In each of the four quadrants, there is a smaller Bolnisi-Katzkhuri cross, which historically represents the five holy wounds of Christ. The combination of white and red dates back to the Middle Ages and symbolizes purity, bravery, and the country's deep Christian roots. This specific design was officially readopted in 2004 after being used by the medieval Kingdom of Georgia.
Emblem history
The coat of arms features two lions supporting a shield that depicts Saint George slaying a dragon, a symbol that has represented the region since the 14th century. Above the shield rests the Iverian royal crown, which signifies the historical sovereignty and continuity of the Georgian state. Below the shield is a decorative vine motif entwined with a motto ribbon that reads 'Strength is in Unity.' These elements combine to honor the Bagrationi dynasty and the enduring religious identity of the Georgian people.