Georgia full name. Area of ​​Georgia

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Georgia is one of the Transcaucasian countries. The area of ​​Georgia has historically been a variable value and has changed many times. Even at the moment, this country is not able to control all the lands that it considers its own. Although in many reference books these uncontrolled territories, by inertia, refer to Georgia.

If we take into account all the territories claimed by Georgia, then its total area will be 69,700 square meters. km, which puts this state in 119th place in the world. But at the same time 8600 sq. km occupies Abkhazia, 3900 sq. km - South Ossetia, which in total gives 12,500 sq. km. Subtracting the area of ​​these republics from the total area of ​​Georgia, it is not difficult to obtain real area this country - 57,200 sq. km. In this case, she falls back to 122nd place in the world.

When the USSR began to come apart at the seams in the 1980s, Georgia was one of the first union republics that planned to secede from its membership. Already in 1989, the Supreme Council Georgian SSR announced this intention after the troops dispersed a rally where they demanded the separation of Georgia from the USSR. And in April 1991, Georgia announced its complete secession from the Union. However, the autonomous territories within the Georgian SSR (South Ossetian Autonomous Okrug and Abkhaz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic) did not want to part with the Union, which caused an armed conflict between Georgia and its constituent parts. This war was stopped only in 1993 through the deployment of a peacekeeping contingent and thanks to the mediation of Russia. Since then, South Ossetia and Abkhazia have actually become independent countries, but legally their independence has not been recognized by any state in the world. Georgia continued to consider them its territory.

Georgia is located in the western and central part of Transcaucasia. Its Black Sea coast has a length of 308 km with a slightly rugged coastline. In the north, Georgia is limited by the Greater Caucasus Range, the northern and southern slopes of which are adjacent to secondary ridges. On the territory of Georgia there are reliefs with plateaus, low plains, hills, medium and high mountains and plateaus. In the Greater Caucasus region there is Mount Shkhara (5068 m) - the highest point in Georgia.

In 1912, the first Lagodekhi nature reserve in Georgia appeared. And now there are 14 natural monuments there,8 national parks, 12 protected areas, 14 state reserves and 2 protected landscapes. In total they occupy 7% of the country's territory. 75% of specially protected natural areas Forests are growing in Georgia.

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About Georgia

Georgia is a unique country with ancient history and culture, friendly people who are famous throughout the world for their hospitality. This is a country of majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities and distinctive traditions.

IN Georgia each of us will find something of our own, because in this country, without traveling long distances, you can see the entire planet - there are mountains, forests, valleys, plains, rivers, the sea, and even deserts. This is a country of year-round recreation. In winter, the famous ski resorts of Gudauri and Bakuriani await us for vacation, in summer - magnificent beaches and resorts of Adjara, spring and autumn - best time for excursion, health, gastronomic and wedding tours! Georgia attracts tourists from all over the world. This mysterious country enchants them with its secrets, hospitable people, vibrant and rich cuisine, stunning nature and much more.

Geography. Georgia is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, in the central and western part of Transcaucasia. In the west it is washed by the Black Sea and borders Turkey, in the south it borders with Armenia, in the east with Azerbaijan, and through the Caucasus Range in the north with Russia. The capital and the most Big city countries - Tbilisi.

The territory of Georgia occupies 69,700 square meters. km, mostly mountainous, more than a third covered with dense forests. The highest point of the Caucasus Range is Mount Shkhara (5068 m). The Lesser Caucasus Range runs through the south of the country; here the highest points do not exceed 3000 meters.

The capital, Tbilisi, is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Georgia, with almost 1,700 years of history and about 1.5 million inhabitants. Translated from Georgian, Tbilisi means Warm.

Official language- Georgian.

State structure- unitary parliamentary-presidential republic.

Climate.N in the west of the country the climate is subtropical, in the east it is transitional from subtropical to temperate. Summer is hot and long. average temperature August almost throughout the country is +23–26 °C.

Population. The country's population is about 5 million. The vast majority of the population of Georgia are Orthodox Christians (83.9%).

Visa.G Citizens of Belarus and stateless persons permanently residing in the Republic of Belarus do not require a visa to visit Georgia, provided that the duration of the visit does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. Attention!!! If your passport contains notes about visiting Abkhazia or South Ossetia entry into the territory of Georgia will be denied, including arrest and deportation.

The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Georgia and must have at least 2 blank pages for stamping.

Time. The time difference with Minsk is plus 1 hour.

Money. Lari (GEL). 1 lari = 100 tetri. There are both metal coins and paper banknotes. You can exchange money at bank branches or exchange offices. There is no commission for currency exchange at Georgian exchange offices. You can pay using a credit card in hotels, large restaurants and shops. In case of unexpected expenses, you can receive money throughout the country through the Western Union system.

Transport. Distributed on the territory of Georgia different kinds public transport: buses, minibuses, taxis, there is a metro in Tbilisi. The country has a developed network railways. There are 3 international airports in Batumi, Kutaisi and Tbilisi.

Connection.Telephone code dial Georgia +995.

The shops. Shops are usually open from 9-10 am to 6-7 pm, many modern shops in Tbilisi follow a 12-hour opening hours: from 9 to 21 or from 10 to 22, and supermarkets are often open around the clock. Markets and fairs open from 5-6 am and close shortly after noon.

TAX FREE. With the help of the TAX FREE system, foreign citizens are given the opportunity to return value added tax after leaving Georgia. The product must be purchased from a store that has the right to issue a special receipt for the refund of VAT, and the delivery of the product must be subject to VAT. The purchase price must exceed 200 Georgian lari in one receipt. Removal of goods must occur no later than three months after arrival. The product must be packaged in a special sealed plastic bag in which the seller places the product, the integrity of the seal must be maintained. A special receipt for VAT refund is required. The goods reflected in a special receipt for VAT refund must be completely exported from the territory of Georgia.

Story. Georgia is the intersection of two greatest cultures - the culture of the West and the culture of the East. Many centuries ago, the main roads of the Great Silk Road passed here. The first mention of the creation of the Georgian state dates back to the distant 10th century. In these ancient times, several Georgian principalities united into one single state, which, however, did not last very long - only three centuries. The “Golden Age” of Georgia occurred between the beginning of the 11th and the beginning of the 13th centuries. The peak of its prosperity is considered to be the reign of Queen Tamara, nicknamed the Great (1184-1210). In the 18th century Georgian principalities were able to unite again, and later most of them became part of the Russian Empire. Georgia has always been and today remains a multinational, hospitable country.

Attractions. For thousands of years, Georgia has accumulated its cultural baggage, from time immemorial to the present day, and thanks to traditions and love for its homeland, it has been carefully preserved for posterity. Cyclopean fortresses, ancient cities and temples, breathtaking landscapes that open up for viewing from observation platforms and mountain serpentines, karst caves, dinosaur tracks near Kutaisi, the oldest wine cellars in the world, stylish modern architecture along with twisted Tbilisi balconies - all this will not leave you indifferent not a single tourist.

There are about 150 museums and 12,000 historical monuments in Georgia, 3 of which are included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List: Mtskheta - a museum city, the ancient capital of Georgia; the architectural complex of Gelati, including a medieval academy, a central temple with unique mosaic frescoes and tombs of Georgian kings; Upper Svaneti with its historical towers.

Kitchen. Georgian cuisine takes a well-deserved place on the culinary Olympus. Food for Georgians is one of the most important parts of Georgian culture. The basis of the cuisine, contrary to popular belief, is not meat, but a variety of dairy and vegetable products, as well as cereals, from which everyday dishes are mainly prepared. Among the meat dishes, the most typical ones are “mtsvadi” kebab, unique “khinkali” dumplings made from lamb richly seasoned with herbs and spices, “Lori” ham, fried or smoked “kupaty” sausages, “buglama” lamb stewed with spices, boiled meat with seasonings “ khashlama”, a hot liver dish “Kuchmachi”, loin on a spit, “chanakhi”, various types of pilaf, fried beef fillet “basturma”, “kaurma”, giblet broth with garlic “khashi”, soup “kharcho”, cold soup from by-products “muzhuzhi” (more like jellied meat), “bozbashi” with lamb, etc. Poultry dishes are everywhere on the table - the famous “satsivi” of all types, poultry broth seasoned with flour, vinegar-egg mixture and onions - “chikhirtma”, the famous “chakhokhbili” and “tabaka” chickens, chicken soup with nuts, scrambled eggs with nuts, chicken stuffed with rice, as well as a variety of fish - with “tsotskhali” sauce, trout with nuts, fish kebab, etc. Well and, of course, greens. This is both the basis of the kitchen and its main asset. A Georgian table is simply unthinkable without greens and a wide variety of vegetables.

Georgian cheese deserves special compliments. Many varieties of cheese are made - “Suluguni” from Western Georgia, young cheese with mint “Gadazelili” from Imereti, lamb cheese “Guda” from Teuleti, Tushino and Kobi cheeses from Javakheti, fried Suluguni or cheese soup - all this is only a tiny part of the application cheese in this country. Greens and cheese are used as an ingredient in almost every Georgian dish!

The national pride of Georgians is, of course, wine! It was in Georgia that the culture of grape cultivation and winemaking arose. Back in the 6th millennium BC, people living in these places produced wine. Georgian wines are something special! These wines are not like the wines of other countries. Unlike France or Italy, in Georgia wines are aged not in glass bottles, but in special jugs - “qvevri”. Largely thanks to this, Georgian wines have such a unique, original taste! Here are just a few brands of Georgian wines - “Kindzmarauli”, “Manavi”, “Mukuzani”, “Napareuli”, “Alazani Valley”, “Akhasheni”, “Khvanchkara”, “Tsolikouri”, “Chkhaveri”, “Argveta”, “Kardanakhi” ", "Khirsa", "Psou", "Samo", "Yeniseli", etc.

Holidays in Georgia. Thanks to state program development of tourism on the Black Sea coast of Georgia, the ultra-modern resort city of Batumi has grown. Once famous for its cargo port, today Batumi has become a mecca for seaside holidays. Modern hotels, entertainment complexes, a huge number of bars, restaurants and beach bungalows are located on the city streets and on the seaside boulevard right by the sea, nightclubs and casinos are within walking distance regardless of your vacation spot. In addition to Batumi, smaller resorts are also extremely popular among vacationers - Kobuleti, Ureki, Anaklia, Kvariati, etc. A huge advantage of most Georgian resorts is the unity of beauty (the beaches are washed by the sea on one side, framed by mountains on the other) and balneological health opportunities.

Balneological and health resorts of Georgia: Borjomi, Tskhaltubo, Sairme, Abastumani. Georgia has long been known for its healing resorts due to the presence of unique mineral waters and a combination of mountain and sea air. There are 22 main sources of mineral waters on the territory of the republic, the most famous of which are Zvare, Sairme, Nabeglavi, Borjomi, etc. Georgia supplies its healing mineral water to more than 25 countries of the world.

The oldest health resorts of times Russian Empire and the Soviet period are today experiencing a rebirth. In Borjomi, new sanatoriums and boarding houses are being revived and built, the medical buildings of the famous Tskhaltubo have again begun to conduct health procedures using radon waters, in Abastumani and Bakuriani they continue to be treated with unique healing properties local mountain air.

One of the most popular types of recreation in Georgia is undoubtedly a vacation in the mountains. The purest mountain air and incredible landscapes, rafting on mountain rivers, mountaineering, trekking and hiking, mountain biking attract lovers from year to year active rest to the Caucasus mountains. Many marked routes make active tourism in Georgia attractive to everyone.

Winter holidays in Georgia, of course, it is primarily associated with alpine skiing and snowboarding. Considering that about 70% of the territory is occupied by the mountain systems of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Ranges, the ski resorts of Georgia are among the most popular winter resorts in the CIS. The most famous ski resort in Georgia can be called the village Gudauri, located on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Range. Many kilometers of pistes, endless opportunities for freeride and off-piste skiing, modern cable cars and cozy chalets annually attract thousands of skiers and snowboarders.

Tours to Georgia are relevant at any time of the year! Flights to Georgia are offered from Minsk or Moscow. Direct flights are operated from Minsk to Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi.

Souvenirs. From Georgia you can bring many unique souvenirs and gifts for friends. Among the main ones: wine; chacha - Georgian grape vodka; Georgian sweets- churchkhela, dried persimmon, pastila, baklava, gozinaki, a wheel of real Georgian suluguni cheese; seasonings or in Georgian - hops-suneli; kubdari, lobiani and khachapuri; wine horn; dagger, saber, gun; highlander costume, national costume; handmade jewelry with Georgian cloisonné enamel; magnets, keychains, postcards, the flag of Georgia, decorative plates, cups and T-shirts with various national designs, etc. Georgian scarves are often brought from Georgia. Tourists love to buy daggers. But in this case, a document confirming the purchase is required, which is taken immediately in the store.

Welcome to hospitable Georgia!

Brief information about the country

Independence Date

Official language

Georgian

Form of government

Mixed Republic

Territory

69,700 km² (118th in the world)

Population

4,490,500 people (123rd in the world)

Timezone

Largest cities

Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi

$26.626 billion (110th in the world)

Internet domain

Telephone code

- a state in Transcaucasia, lying on the territory from the eastern shore of the Black Sea to the Greater Caucasus Range. Although Georgia formally became a separate country only in 1991, in the process of collapse Soviet Union, the ancient kingdoms of Colchis and Iberia existed in this region long before the beginning of our era, and the current capital of the state, Tbilisi, is more than one and a half thousand years old.

Video: Heads and Tails. Georgia

Basic moments

After the end of the difficult 90s for the country, many residents of the former USSR continued nostalgic travels to Georgia, enjoying its unique nature and architectural monuments, mild climate, cuisine and hospitality of the hosts. Most Georgians were fluent in Russian, and there were no problems in communication.

The second decade of the 21st century brought new trends: the government adopted a long-term, until 2025, program for the development of the tourism industry, putting at the forefront the attractive slogan: “Georgia is a country of life.” Not only former compatriots, but also guests from Europe, accustomed to a different level of comfort, became priorities. Foreign investments began to flow into the economy, and the result was not long in coming: the number of tourists increased 4 times compared to the zero years. The tourist center of Tbilisi has been completely reconstructed, the center beach holiday Batumi has turned into a modern European city. Interesting objects have also appeared in the province: in a few years, Sighnaghi has become the standard of luxury recreation.

At the same time, the budget sector did not stand aside: you can still come to Georgia on your own, staying in inexpensive guest houses or even spending the night in a tent. It is not difficult to find a Russian-speaking local resident; in extreme cases, you can ask young Georgians with questions - almost all of them speak English. Now the state’s immediate plans include developing infrastructure and expanding the tourist flow through the winter months.

Cities of Georgia

All cities of Georgia

Geographical location and climate of Georgia

Although Georgia is only 1.5 times larger in area than Moscow and the region, its territory, thanks to its complex terrain, accommodates several geographical zones. The country is rich in mineral resources; water from mineral springs, such as Borjomi, is exported. The north-east of the country is occupied by mountains, the most famous of which are located on the border with Russia - these are the five-thousander Shkhara and Kazbek peaks with ice-covered peaks. The Black Sea regions, on the contrary, lie in a lowland zone. Even at the beginning of the 20th century, this was an unhealthy area, spoiled by fumes from the swamps. Then the lands were drained, and now this region is the basis Agriculture Georgia, however, is not as picturesque as the mountainous parts of the country.

The diversity of geographical zones and zones explains the abundance of animal and plant species. Predators in the reserves include wolves, bears, and endangered leopards; ungulates include goitered gazelles and aurochs. Those brought from North America raccoons. Dozens of species of fish are found in the mountain rivers and glacial lakes of Georgia. In agricultural areas, vegetables and fruits ripen well - not only for their own needs, but also for export. But there are practically no tea plantations left in the country due to the unprofitability of this industry.

You can come to Georgia all year round, the main thing is to remember that the climate here is mild, but the weather is changeable. Even in the height of summer, you need to take jackets and umbrellas with you. On the coast it usually rains in November and late winter, sunny in summer and September. The heat in summer is relieved by seaside breezes. Autumn in Adjara, in the sea region, begins in November, a month later than in other parts of Georgia. It is much colder in Tbilisi at this time, and the approach of winter is clearly felt. When planning a trip for November, you need to find out in advance whether the heating is working in the rooms or apartments, otherwise it will be very uncomfortable to spend the night. In winter, the temperature approaches zero, but frosts occur only in the mountains - cold winds from the north are stopped by the Caucasus Range.

Ethnographic features

Outwardly, Georgians are difficult to distinguish from the crowd: among them there are scorching brunettes, and light redheads with brown, gray, green and blue eyes. What they have in common is friendliness and respect for guests. The majority of the population of Georgia are Orthodox Christians who observe rituals; it is not without reason that several religious holidays are officially celebrated in the country. Crossing oneself at the sight of a church is the norm for a believer. There are also Muslims in the country, mostly Georgians too. However, Georgians are a concept for export, just like all Russians abroad are called Russians. Within this ethnic group are hidden several nationalities with different customs: Kakhetians, Kartlians, Imeretians, Adjarians and many others, mostly speaking dialects of Georgian.

Unites different nationalities ancient history, culture and unique writing that appeared more than one and a half thousand years ago. Probably, like the Cyrillic alphabet, it has its own author - Mesrop Mashtots, who created alphabets for Armenians and Georgians. It is difficult to appreciate the variety of customs of the country in one visit, but as an alternative, you can use the Ethnographic Open Air Museum in Tbilisi, located next to Turtle Lake and Vake Park. It contains about 70 traditional buildings: residential buildings, churches, wineries - from different regions of Georgia and thousands of authentic household items. The gigantic exhibition, which occupies 52 hectares, is open for inspection from 10 am to 6 pm, closed on Monday. Ticket price for adults is 1.5 GEL.

History of the country

Archaeological excavations show that the art of metalworking and winemaking were one of the first in the world to originate on Georgian soil. The first mention of the state of Colchis is found in the myth of the Argonauts' journey for the Golden Fleece. Not all archaeologists are unequivocally sure of its reality, but the artifacts found reliably confirm that the ancient Caucasian Iberia mentioned by Tacitus in the 4th century. BC e. really existed. In the 1st century BC e. the territories were conquered by Rome, but were given significant autonomy. After the weakening and fall of the Roman Empire, the kingdom of Laz was inherited by Byzantium, and Iberia submitted to the Persians.

Middle Ages

The Arab invasions became a serious challenge for the Georgian kingdoms. Neighboring Persia and Armenia were the first to fall, and the Georgian population was subject to tribute. Not wanting to convert to Islam, residents went to high mountain areas where they could not be reached. Several centuries of isolated struggle showed that the Georgian kingdoms alone could not cope with the conquerors. The Bagrationi dynasty took advantage of the weakening of the Arab state in the 11th century, uniting several kingdoms in Kartli. But the calm did not last long: Byzantium, and then the Seljuk Turks, began to fight for the fertile lands. Fortunately, the beginning of the Crusades diverted the attention of the Turks from the Caucasian lands, and King David the Builder returned almost all the territories back, established trade contacts with Europe and Russia, and populated the reclaimed empty lands with friendly Polovtsians. The great-granddaughter of the unifying king Tamara brought the country to the peak of prosperity, while the Georgians captured part of Byzantium and Persia. Strong ties were established with the northern neighbors: Queen Tamara entered into her first marriage with the son of Andrei Bogolyubsky, Yuri. He turned out to be an extremely unsuccessful husband, so after a few years he was peacefully exiled to Constantinople with a rich compensation. Tamara's second husband, Ossetian prince David-Soslan, became the father of her children. During the reign of the royal couple, applied art and literature flourished in the country, and at the same time the pinnacle of Georgian poetry was created - “The Knight in the Skin of a Tiger” by Shota Rustaveli. After Tamara's death, her daughter Rusudan was unable to support her mother's endeavors and made peace with the Tatar-Mongols, pledging to pay them tribute. By the 15th century, the situation in Georgia became even more alarming: only Muslim states remained around, the Byzantine Empire no longer existed. The country broke up into 4 small weakened kingdoms, subsequently divided between Turkey and Iran.

Union with Russia

The Turks were expelled from the country only in the 18th century, at which time culture and printing revived in Georgian language, but the threat of a Turkish invasion remained, and besides, the Iranians were strengthening nearby. In this situation, Georgia had no other choice but to become part of Russia, at least close to residents countries by faith. At the beginning of the 19th century, the state joined the Russian Empire in parts, industry developed there, and roads were laid.

Georgia in the 20th century

After October revolution Georgia became independent for some time; part of its territory was transferred to the Turks under a peace treaty. In the early 20s, the troops of the RSFSR fought with the Georgian ones, in 1921-1922. The country came completely under the authority of the new Soviet state. After World War II, the dissident movement seeking the secession of Georgia intensified. In 1989, opposition protests were organized in Tbilisi; their suppression by the army and police led to casualties. In 1991, Georgia finally became independent and left the USSR.

The first years of independence were difficult for the country: President Zviad Gamsakhurdia, with his tough national policies, provoked a war with Abkhazia, then with South Ossetia. After his removal and death, the post of head of state was taken by Eduard Shevardnadze, a politician of the Soviet school. By the 2000s, military conflicts had been neutralized, although the status of Abkhazia in modern world is still not clearly defined, the economy has begun to pick up. Under the next president, Mikheil Saakashvili, major reforms of the police and bureaucracy took place, while the conflict with South Ossetia flared up again in 2008. In the 10s, the country set a course for economic development; investments came to Georgia, followed by foreign tourists.

Natural attractions of Georgia

You can admire the landscapes in any corner of Georgia, but the most spectacular natural attractions are concentrated in environmental zones and national parks. Tourists are recommended to visit them in the warm season; in winter the weather in the mountains is too harsh.

Popular natural parks

Tusheti Park in Kakheti is a protected area with forested mountains on which several Georgian villages stand. Entrance is free, you can set up a tent in any convenient location, but there are restrictions: you cannot light fires or hunt, or bring pets with you. Closer to the border in Kakheti, in the savannah, Vashlovani Park is open with mandatory registration so as not to raise questions from the border guards. Fishing and making fires are allowed on the territory. No less interesting is the wild Kolkheti Park with tropical jungles interspersed with swamps.

Mountain peaks

Climbers conquer mountains in the northeastern part of the country. On many peaks there were monasteries and temples hiding there from enemy raids. Among the most inaccessible is a monastery in a cave on Kazbek, at an altitude of about 4 km. The last monks, according to archaeologists, lived there around the 6th century.

Beaches of Georgia

Georgia owns more than 300 km of the Black Sea coast. The swimming season begins in mid-June and ends in October. The largest summer holiday center is the capital of Adjara Batumi, but the pebble beaches of this port city are not the cleanest. Tourists who plan to spend all their days at sea are advised to stay in quieter villages 20 minutes drive south of the city. Sandy beaches are located in the vicinity of Ureki, an hour's drive north of Batumi. In summer it is full of people: black magnetic sands help with joint diseases. There are no mountains in the vicinity of Ureki, but there are many mosquitoes. There are also beaches in Georgia on fresh water bodies: Tbilisi residents, for example, prefer to relax on the pebble shore of Turtle Lake.

Resorts of Georgia

The mountain resort of Abastumani with dry pine air lies 3-4 hours drive west of Tbilisi. Guests with diseases of the lungs, joints, and gynecological problems are welcome here. About 20 km northwest of Abastumani is the resort of Serm, famous for its thermal waters. A 2-hour drive from the capital in the same direction there are several sanatoriums in the resort town of Surami. Tskhaltubo in Imereti, 10 minutes northwest of, has been known since the Middle Ages for its mineral waters.

Active recreation in Georgia

Also in Soviet times winter sports lovers vacationed in Georgia; ski resorts still welcome guests today. Popular destinations include regions with stable snow cover. In Borjomi-Bakurian region climatic conditions close to alpine. Bakuriani has many trails for beginners and professionals; hiking enthusiasts come here in the summer. Skiers and rock climbers are welcome. The resort of Gudauri in the historical region of Khevi welcomes athletes from December to April. Climbers train in the surrounding area all year round.

Man-made sights of Georgia

A significant part of the ancient sights of Georgia are monuments of Christian architecture. There are more than three hundred churches dedicated to St. George, the patron saint of Georgia. Many of them were built in the millennium before last. In the historical center of Tbilisi stands the Zion Cathedral, built in the 7th century. It contains a wooden cross of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. The cathedral is the residence of the head of the local church, Catholicos Ilia II.

Add to list World Heritage included a complex of temples in Mtskheta and its environs: convent Samtavro of the 4th century, the recently restored temple of Jvari of the 7th century and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. The Bagrati Temple is a controversial object from the point of view of art historians. The ancient cathedral of the 11th century was seriously damaged under the Turks, leaving a dilapidated foundation, on which, nevertheless, services were held. Over the past decade, the complex has been restored, although UNESCO protested against overly radical architectural solutions.

Monuments of secular architecture

If travelers do not have time to travel throughout the country, they should simply wander the streets of the historical center of Tbilisi and enjoy the atmosphere of the ancient city. In the resort town of Vani, the ruins of an ancient city have been preserved. In the south of Georgia, tourists can explore the Khertvisi fortress, built from the 10th to the 14th centuries. The Ananuri fortress on the Georgian Military Road, the royal fortress of Gremi in Kakheti are later monuments of the 16th-18th centuries. A 2-hour drive east of Tbilisi, Sighnaghi is a tourist paradise with 18th-century fortress walls, red-tiled roofs and panoramic views.

Museums of the country

The network of the Georgian National Museum includes natural science, historical and art collections. Among the most popular among tourists is the capital's Georgian Art Museum with unique objects of medieval national art. In the city of Zugdidi, tourists visit the 19th century Dadiani Palace, surrounded by an impressive park. Ticket price is 2 GEL, you can hire a Russian-speaking guide. Jakeli Castle in the Akhaltsikhe Fortress was recently restored and also turned into a museum.

Holidays in Georgia

People like to vacation in Georgia on a grand scale, celebrating holidays that are traditional for the former USSR: New Year, March 8, Victory Day, and unique.

Socio-political holidays

Independence Day, when Georgia seceded from the Russian Empire and became a separate state, is celebrated on May 26. Even though the state formed in 1918 lasted only 3 years and regained its independence only in 1991, this day is still significant for Georgians. A military parade is held along Rustaveli Avenue, and a festive concert is organized in Rika, the historical center of Tbilisi.

April 9 in Georgia is National Unity Day in memory of the events of 1989, when protests took place in Tbilisi and were brutally suppressed by police and military forces.

Religious holidays

Many Orthodox holidays in the country are celebrated as state holidays, a day off is declared. November 23 is the solemn day of St. George, the patron saint of the country, for Georgian believers. On this day he was wheeled on the wheel by order of Emperor Diocletian so that he would renounce Christianity. Saint Nino, a paternal relative of the martyr and an educator of Georgia, introduced the people to the exploits of the saint. From Cappadocia, her homeland, in the 4th century she came to Iberia, where she preached so successfully that she converted the entire country to Christianity. Since then, this has been the most revered name for women, just like George for men. Solemn services are held in churches on this day, and the holiday is celebrated at home with family feasts.

Easter customs in Georgia are generally similar to those in Russia, but believers begin celebrating the important event on Good Friday, which has been declared a non-working day. At Christmas, a festive procession takes place in Tbilisi, during which gifts are collected for charity. Candles light up in the windows of believers. Epiphany is celebrated widely and more actively than in Russia on January 19. On May 12, the Day of St. Andrew the First-Called is celebrated; on August 28, services are held in memory of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.

An unusual holiday appeared quite recently - the Day of Spiritual Love on July 16th. The main celebrations take place not in Tbilisi cathedrals, as usual, but in Gergeti, in the 14th-century Trinity Church. The church is located at an altitude of more than 2 km at the foot of Kazbek, 3 hours drive north of the capital.

On October 14, another event is held outside of Tbilisi - Mtskhetoba. The place of service becomes the Svetitskhoveli Temple, built on the burial site of the Robe of Christ in Mtskheta, 40 minutes drive northwest of the capital. First wooden temple It was erected on this site in the 4th century; the stone building that has survived to this day appeared in the 11th century. This is the resting place of the Georgian kings from the Bagration dynasty, which for many centuries was the main church of the country.

Unofficial holidays

Rtveli marks the time of the grape harvest, when men come home with the first baskets, and women prepare a treat for the whole family.

Love Day is celebrated on April 15, when couples give each other gifts. It was introduced so that people would abandon Valentine's Day as a Catholic holiday, but Georgians took advantage of the opportunity and now happily celebrate both days.

On Tbilisi City Day in October, fairs and theatrical performances are held in the capital.

Georgian cuisine

Traveling to Georgia simply to get to know its culinary traditions on the spot is a completely worthy goal. Since the country is Christian, all types of meat are used, but clear preference is given to beef, chicken and turkey. Fish on the tables is much less common, despite the fact that trout of exceptional quality is caught in mountain rivers. Sea fishing in Georgia is not very developed at all, because coastline straight, without bays convenient for mooring ships. The lack of fish dishes is compensated by the abundance of vegetables and fruits; fortunately, everything grows in the Georgian climate. Cooks use nuts, most often walnuts, spices and fresh herbs with a rich taste: cilantro, basil, tarragon. The daily menu includes a lot of pickled cheeses, both freshish Suluguni and spicy Chanakh. They are used not as a snack, but as part of first and second courses. Simple basic dishes are diversified with the help of a huge number of sauces with a berry and fruit base, supplemented with nuts and herbs.

Only in Georgia can you try authentic tkemali sauce based on local plums, satsivi with wine vinegar or pomegranate juice. Local chefs prepare real kharcho soup - with the addition of plums and walnuts and a lot of spices, added in several stages. A popular second course, chakhokhbili, is most often made from chicken, fried and then stewed in vegetables. Chicken or turkey is also used in satsivi with the sauce of the same name. Tapaka chickens are fried under pressure, which gives them their characteristic flattened shape. More than 40 types of lobio, the second type of bean, are prepared in Georgia. Dishes less known to Russian tourists are chumiza gomi pulp, flatbreads from corn flour rush.

Flatbread Mchadi

There are few sweet dishes in Georgian cuisine - they are replaced by fresh and candied fruits, honey, and juices. The main exception is churchkhela, which is prepared from thickened grape juice and nuts. The semi-finished product ripens for several months, but remains soft.

There are several wine regions in Georgia; for tasting, it is most convenient to travel independently through the Kakheti Alazani Valley, east of the capital. For those who do not risk traveling alone, wine tours are organized to the best wineries in the country. Experts advise paying attention to Georgian white wine: it rarely comes to Russian stores, yet it often surpasses red in taste and aroma.

Shopping in Georgia

The day when foreigners will come to Georgia on shopping tours will not come soon, although in Tbilisi shopping centers you can buy goods from all world brands. In the meantime, tourists take home handicrafts: silver jewelry and household items with enamels, homespun towels and rugs - and the best Georgian foods and drinks: wine, oil from grape seed, churchkhela, homemade cheese, spices, real tkemali sauce. Souvenir shops are scattered throughout the capital; in the markets, goods are cheaper and you can bargain. The flea market next to the House of Justice on the banks of the Kura River near the Dry Bridge is in demand among tourists. Shops close around 7 pm, supermarkets are open late or around the clock, markets have a day off on Monday.

Wine shop

Prices in Georgia

You can visit a restaurant without denying yourself anything for about $20, but if you eat modestly, ordering inexpensive khinkali, you can manage it for $5. Anyone who rents an apartment in the capital and plans to cook on their own, shops near the Central Station at the Deserter Market, where food prices are the lowest. A bottle of decent wine costs no less than 10 dollars, churchkhela - about a dollar.

Cash and bank cards

Bank cards MasterCard and Visa are freely accepted for payment in the capital. It is better to carry the local currency - lari and tetri - in the market, in transport and in provincial cities. When exchanging for lari, banks charge a small commission.

Visas and customs regulations

Visa regimes between Russia and Georgia have changed frequently recently. The latter option is attractive for tourists: a foreign passport is enough to enter the country for a year; a visa is not needed. An important detail concerns the status of the disputed territories. Tourists should be aware that entering Georgia through Abkhazia from the Russian side is fraught with a fine and deportation outside the country. Traveling through Abkhazia is also not recommended: your passport will not have an exit stamp, and Georgian border guards may not like this on your next visit.

You can export up to 3 liters of wine from Georgia duty-free, and 2 more with an additional payment. Some tourists manage to smuggle more through Russian customs, but success is not guaranteed. You can import any amount of cash not in Georgian currency, and within a year the same amount can be taken back.

Transport in Georgia

Tbilisi has a metro with two lines and 22 visually impressive stations, covering almost the entire city. This is the most economical type of transport, travel is paid by card, on which money is placed and 50 tetri are automatically deducted during the next trip. Information at the stations is presented in Georgian and English languages. The metro operates from 6 am to midnight, the interval between trains is about 4 minutes, less during rush hours.

There are about 100 bus routes in Tbilisi from 8 am to 10 pm. Payment on city buses is accepted using the same plastic card or cash without change. Within an hour and a half after traveling on the metro, a bus ticket that usually costs 50 tetri is issued free of charge. Hiring a taxi for a full day will cost about 200 GEL, a short trip within one area - on average 5 GEL. Route taxis and trains go to the regions.

Where to stay

There are no problems with choosing housing in Georgia. A room in a guest house costs from $10 per day; modest apartments can be rented for $40; long-term rent is cheaper. Hotel room – from 20 dollars, average price – 50 dollars. National parks offer inexpensive campsites and guesthouses. In coastal areas, housing is rented out by private owners; advertisements in Russian can be found right along the road from the beach.

Security issues in Georgia

Issues of personal safety in Georgia have been resolved well, tourists can rest easy. The maximum that can happen is that you will be slightly shortchanged at the market, at an exchange office or in a taxi, but this is the standard attitude towards foreigners in any resort center in the world. Girls are not threatened by the stormy Caucasian temperament: in Georgia, a woman, especially a guest, is treated with great respect. Passers-by will always tell you the way and help if needed. Natural hazards include earthquakes up to magnitude 7, especially in the eastern part of the country.

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Georgia - the most detailed information about the country with photos. Sights, cities of Georgia, climate, geography, population and culture.

Georgia (საქართველო)

Georgia is a state in the southwestern part of the Caucasus. It is a small country in Transcaucasia on the eastern coast of the Black Sea, which is located at the junction of Europe and Asia. Georgia borders on Russia in the north and east, Turkey and Armenia in the south, and Azerbaijan in the southeast. Geographically, the country belongs to Western Asia and the Middle East, although currently the state is considered as part of of Eastern Europe. Georgia is a parliamentary republic. More than 80% of the population professes Orthodoxy.

Despite its small size, Georgia is a country of contrasts and amazing diversity. Here you can see stunning mountain landscapes, visit wonderful ancient cities, monasteries and churches, and relax at the Black Sea resorts. In Greek mythology, the Golden Fleece was kept in Georgia, and archaeological finds indicate that it is the oldest wine-producing region (samples of wines dating back to the sixth millennium BC have been found). Georgia is an amazingly picturesque country with hospitable people, delicious cuisine, rich history and culture.

Useful information about Georgia

1. The official language is Georgian.
2. Currency is Georgian lari.
3. A visa is not required for up to 360 days.
4. Population - more than 3.7 million people.
5. Area - 69,700 sq. km.
6. The capital is Tbilisi.
7. Time zone is UTC +4.
8. Georgia has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
9. Georgia is one of the most safe countries in the world.

Geography and climate

Georgia is located in Transcaucasia and is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. The northern part of the country is the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The south of the country is occupied by the lower ranges of the Lesser Caucasus. The highest peaks of Georgia are Mount Shkhara (5068 m) and Kazbek (5033 m). Closer to the coast, the relief becomes calmer and the Colchis Lowland is formed. Black Sea coast in Georgia has a length of just over 100 km. Largest rivers Georgia: Kura, Rioni, Inguri.

Due to its position (at the junction of Europe and Asia, subtropical, temperate and arid climates) and altitudinal zonation Georgia has extremely diverse landscapes (mountain glaciers, alpine meadows, forests and subtropics), nature, flora and animal world. The climate is transitional, from temperate to subtropical.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit Georgia is May-June and September. At this time, the weather is usually great, there are not many tourists, and hotel prices are reasonable. In Tbilisi and some other cities, July and August can be quite hot. On Black Sea resorts It is better to go from July to October.

Story

First state in the territory modern Georgia arose in the middle of the first millennium BC. This was the kingdom of Colchis, which was located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea. Georgian historians believe that Colchis was a fairly developed state. The policies were founded by the local population, and the Greeks founded trading posts.

In the 4th century BC. e. The Kingdom of Kartli was founded, and around 300 BC. e. - the state of Iveria with its capital in Mtskheta. In the 1st century BC, Colchis was conquered by the Romans. In the 2nd century AD, Iveria (Kartli) became independent. In the 4th century, Christianity became the state religion. In the 4th-5th centuries, Iberia was dependent on Persia. During the reign of Vakhtang I Gorgasal, Iveria gained independence. Vakhtang also founded Tbilisi, where the capital of the kingdom was moved in the 6th century.

In the 7th century, the territory of Georgia was subjugated by the Arabs, who ruled it until the 9th century. The first mention of the state of Georgia (Kartli) dates back to the 10th century. After the expulsion of the Arabs, feudal states were formed: the Abkhazian kingdom, Kartli, Kakheti, Hereti. Georgia was unified under Bagrat III of the Bagratid dynasty. The 11th-12th centuries were the period of real prosperity of the Georgian state. Georgia achieved power under David IV the Builder and Queen Tamara and was one of the strongest powers in the region. In the 12th century, Georgia established strong relations with Russia.

In the 13th century, the country was conquered by the Mongols, who were expelled only a century later. In 1386-1403, Georgia experienced several invasions by Timur. In the 15th century, the Georgian kingdom fell into decline and split into several states. The country was later divided between Turkey and Iran. In the 18th century, under Heraclius II, the Turks were expelled, and Georgia accepted the protectorate of the Russian Empire.

In 1800, Georgia became part of Russia. Joining the Russian Empire saved the Georgian people from genocide and assimilation by the Turks and Persians. After the October Revolution, Georgia declared its independence, but already in 1921 it became part of the USSR. In 1991 (after the collapse of the Soviet Union) the country became an independent state.

Administrative division

Administratively, Georgia is divided into 9 regions, two autonomous republics and one city of national importance.

• Abkhaz Autonomous Republic - Sukhumi
• Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti - Zugdidi
• Guria - Ozurgeti
• Autonomous Republic of Adjara - Batumi
• Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti - Ambrolauri
• Imereti - Kutaisi
• Samtskhe-Javakheti - Akhaltsikhe
• Shida Kartli - Gori
• Mtskheta-Mtianeti - Mtskheta
• Kvemo Kartli - Rustavi
• Kakheti - Telavi
• Tbilisi

• Kartli is the heart of Georgia, the center of Georgian culture. The ancient cities of Tbilisi, Mtskheta and Gori are located here.
• Rioni is the center of Western Georgia and the territory of ancient Colchis.
• Kakheti is a fertile region with a dry climate with picturesque valleys, vineyards and beautiful churches.
• Southwestern Georgia - subtropics and Black Sea resorts.
• Northwestern Georgia - Greater Caucasus ranges.
• Samtskhe-Javakheti - region with big amount Armenian ethnic population and interesting sights.

Population

More than 80% of the population are ethnic Georgians. Quite large diasporas are Armenians and Azerbaijanis. Georgians profess Orthodoxy. They are hospitable, sex-loving and temperamental people. Georgians respect their elders, honor traditions, and love songs and feasts.

Basic rules of conduct:

• Respect the traditions and history of Georgia.
• Avoid political debates and relations with Russia.
• Avoid parallels with neighboring Islamic cultures.
• Georgians are not that religious, but Orthodoxy here is quite conservative.

Transport

Airports are located in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi. The country's largest airport is, of course, in the capital. Georgia has regular flights from most major cities in Europe, Asia and Russia, including: Moscow, Kiev, London, Amsterdam, Prague, Istanbul, Riga, Minsk, Vilnius, Warsaw.

Bus service connects Georgia with the cities of Turkey, Russia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Trains run regularly on the Baku - Tbilisi route.

Cities of Georgia

Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia, home to a third of the population. It is an ancient city of contrasts with charming architecture and several famous ancient sites.

The second largest city and resort capital of Georgia. It is an interesting mixture of classical and modern buildings, as well as subtropical vegetation.

Borjomi is a picturesque small town that produces famous mineral water.

Kutaisi is the ancient capital of Colchis and the third largest city in Georgia.

The ancient capital of Eastern Georgia and the center of the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Telavi is the capital of Kakheti, located near vineyards, ancient churches and monasteries.

Gori - hometown Stalin, near which there is an ancient rocky city.

Attractions

There are three sites on the territory of Georgia that are included in the UNESCO list.

Ancient monuments of Mtskheta:

• Jvari is an ancient 6th century monastery located at the confluence of the Kura. The first UNESCO monument in Georgia.
• Svetitskhoveli is a 12th-century cathedral and the main religious building of Georgia.
• Samtavro is another ancient monastery at the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi.

Gelati Monastery and Bagrati Temple in Kutaisi. Gelati Monastery is a medieval monastery founded by David the Builder. Bagrati Temple is a medieval temple that played an important role in the history of Georgia. David IV was crowned here.

Upper Svaneti

Upper Svaneti is a picturesque valley on the Inguri River. It is famous for its medieval buildings: residential towers and ancient stone churches.

Other attractions

Kazbek is one of the largest peaks in Georgia and the Caucasus. It is an extinct volcano and has a height of 5033 meters.

Bakuriani is one of the main ski resorts Georgia, located on the slopes of the Trialeti ridge.

Shatili is a picturesque village on the slopes of the Main Caucasus Range on the border with Russia. Is unique complex medieval and early modern fortresses and fortified houses made of stone.

Uplistsikhe is an ancient cave city founded in the first millennium BC. Was located on the ancient Silk Road. It is located 12 km from the town of Gori. This is one of the oldest settlements in Georgia, which was abandoned in the 19th century.

Vardzia is a 12th century cave monastery. This is one of the most striking sights of Georgia, located in the south of the country on a cliff off the coast of the Kura River.

David Gareja is an ancient cave monastery from the 6th century with beautiful frescoes. Located 60 km from Tbilisi right on the border of Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Accommodation

The tourist popularity of Georgia is steadily growing, which contributes to the growth in the number of hotels and tourism infrastructure. Although hotels in Tbilisi and Kutaisi are often a bit overpriced and service can often be far from high European standards, Georgia is a place where you can find an affordable hotel or apartment and experience the warmth and hospitality of its owners.

Kitchen

Georgian cuisine is delicious, soulful and versatile. It includes a large amount of meat, spices, and various sauces. You can eat very inexpensively in Georgia. Popular traditional dishes: khachapuri, khinkali, mtsvadi (kebab), pkhali, chakapuli, churchkhela, chashushuli.

Popular traditional products include chacha, Georgian wine (saperavi, kindzmarauli, khvanchkara, tsinandali, rkatsiteli), suluguni cheese, mineral water (Borjomi), and fruits.

Who does Russia border on in the south? There are a number of countries that are located next to the Russian Federation in this area: one of such states is Georgia. For many centuries they were friendly countries, but certain events made adjustments to their strong bond, practically terminating diplomatic relations. Despite political disagreements, entry into this country for residents of the Russian Federation is still simplified.

Recently, Russian-Georgian relations have begun to improve. For example, back in that year, Georgia made changes regarding the stay of Russian tourists in the country: now you can safely use visa-free entry. Many who want to visit here ask the question: “what is the situation on the border of Georgia with Russia at the present time”? It is worth noting that the situation is calm, everything is proceeding as normal: the main thing is to follow certain travel rules.

Territorial neighbors

Russia and Georgia are neighboring states: the southern border of the Russian Federation with Georgia runs through the Caucasus Mountains from the Black to the Caspian Sea. Who else does Russia border on this side? For example, with South Ossetia, Abkhazia and Azerbaijan. But here we will talk in more detail about the land border between Russia and Georgia, about the rules that must be followed when crossing it and certain nuances.

Border

The Russian-Georgian land border passes through the Verkhniy Lars checkpoint, which is located 50 km from Vladikavkaz; as for the remaining checkpoints, they are now closed. The length of the state border of Georgia is 2148 km. The country is located next to such states as Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Turkey. The border between Georgia and Russia is about 900 km long.

Contact details

And about. the head of the post is Lieutenant Colonel of the Customs Service Oleg Ibragimovich Tsoraev. Duty service telephone number: +7-8672-252-753. Checkpoint opening hours this moment: from 04:30 to 17:30. During this period, registration of cars and trucks takes place. The schedule may change depending on circumstances, so please check ahead of time for this information.

Road to Georgia: online webcams

Online webcams broadcast entry into Russia and exit into Georgia in real time. With their help, you can assess the current situation, for example, determine how long the queue is at the entrance to the checkpoint and plan your actions based on this. The picture on them changes every 15-20 minutes. The situation on the border between Georgia and Russia is now calm, but due to the summer season there is a large flow of traffic through the crossing.

Border of Russia and Georgia: "Upper Lars"

Regardless of the method of crossing the Georgian border, you will in any case need to go through a checkpoint, so take care of a few things in advance so that your trip is not marred by troubles. It is not possible to cross the border on foot, however, it is allowed to do so by bicycle.

The checkpoint is the only land border crossing through which you can get from Russia to Georgia. In 2009, the solemn completion of the construction of a multilateral automobile checkpoint - Stepantsminda - took place. Everyone who wants to get to Armenia or Georgia by car or bus passes through this place. The Russian-Georgian border passes in this area. The checkpoint is in normal mode, and from that , and on the other hand, as a rule, should work around the clock, however, its work schedule may change depending on natural disasters and other circumstances. For this reason, before leaving, it is better to check whether Upper Lars is open for travel.

In summer, the number of people wishing to cross the border becomes significantly larger, so the load on the checkpoint increases significantly. However, despite this, the Georgian side decided to operate the checkpoint not around the clock, but only for the period from 4:30 am to 5:30 pm. According to the project, the throughput capacity of Upper Lars is 400 transport units per day, but in July 2016 a significant excess of this figure was recorded: sometimes more than 2,000 cars pass through the checkpoint per day.

It is noted that the border between Georgia and Russia is currently not accessible for pedestrians to cross: foreign citizens must be in a car or bus. If the checkpoint operates as usual, then the main traffic flow occurs between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., as well as after 6 p.m.

Village of Verkhniy Lars

This is a Russian, Ossetian village, which also serves as a checkpoint. Is in North Ossetia on the Georgian Military Road near the border of the two states. Belongs to the urban district of the city of Vladikavkaz. The road to Georgia runs through this settlement. The village is located in a mountainous area on the coast of the Terek River. Since 2009, a checkpoint has been located here. The settlement is located 30 km south of Vladikavkaz towards the Daryali checkpoint, located on the territory of Georgia. Currently, most of the population of Upper Lars has moved to live in neighboring villages and Vladikavkaz.

Visa

Since June last year, new rules have been in effect according to which citizens of 93 countries, including Russians, no longer require a visa if their stay in the country lasts less than one year. The border between Georgia and Russia is thus open to everyone: crossing it does not require an entry document. If a Russian citizen decides to stay in the country for a longer period, he will need to obtain a residence permit. An entry document is important for those who decide to stay in Georgia for a long time in order to obtain education or work. To obtain a visa, please contact the Interests Section at the Swiss Embassy in Moscow (we do not have a Georgian diplomatic mission).

Crossing Georgia by car: list of documents

When crossing the border, you will need to go through the Verkhniy Lars checkpoint - this is the only legal way to enter the country by land. Here is the border between Russia and Georgia. By car you can without special problems drive through the checkpoint, following certain rules.

The main document is a passport. It must contain two blank pages, and the document must not contain notes about visiting South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The foreign passport must be valid after completion of the trip for more than 3 months. In addition to the main document, the driver will have to present a vehicle registration certificate (vehicle registration certificate). The legal owner must have the usual set of documents for the car. Also - a driver's license with duplicate data in Latin.

In the event that the car does not belong to you, and the owner remains in Russia, you must have a power of attorney in your hands, which confirms the right to travel abroad with this car. The document must be certified by a notary. Let us note that in Georgia there is no requirement to have compulsory car insurance, but it is still better to have it, it is not necessary to have an international driving license. There is such a peculiarity: cars registered in Crimea are not allowed into Georgia.

The route for traveling by car when crossing the border starts from the Georgian Military Road. You will see Kazbek, Terek, Daryala Gorge, temples and Basically, first everyone goes to the capital - Tbilisi. Tourists then go to Mtskheta, Ananuri, Telavi, Gremi and other cities. From Tbilisi they also go to Batumi and Borjomi. The most popular resorts here are Gonio, Sarpi, Kobuleti and Kvariati.

Border crossing violation

In connection with the armed conflicts that were associated with South Ossetia and Abkhazia, a rule was introduced in Georgia according to which the foreign passports of those entering the country should not contain any marks about visiting these republics. The checkpoints located on the border with them are closed, so such entry is considered illegal. As a result of such a violation, travelers may be subject to a fine of 400 to 800 Georgian lari, and in some cases imprisonment.

How to get to Georgia from Moscow?

In this case, the route will run along the Don, bypassing Voronezh. You need to go to Rostov-on-Don. The distance to this point will be approximately 1100 km. Next, the road will go through Oktyabrskaya and Kushchevskaya, then the intersection with the P-217 Caucasus highway. The route goes through Kropotkin, Armavir, Nevinnomysk and Vladikavkaz. Next you need to move along the A-161 Vladikavkaz-Georgia highway. The next point will be crossing the border: here the mountainous terrain begins with dangerous sections, descents and ascents. The route as a whole is about 2000 km, then there is another 200 km to Tbilisi.

customs control

Crossing the border between Russia and Georgia must comply with certain rules. Border control and customs inspection procedures are not subject to any taxes or fees. Filling out the customs declaration is allowed in Russian. On the Georgian side, much attention is paid to checking things. You will need to declare some items that you intend to transport abroad. It is prohibited to take with you: explosives and narcotic substances, extremist literature, weapons and pornographic materials.

Items of historical and cultural value will need to be declared. There are certain rules regarding money: this year the maximum amount should not exceed 30 thousand lari, there are no restrictions on other currencies. If you are carrying a larger amount, you must have current documents confirming their origin. You can take out of the country up to 3,000 lari. Note: to avoid difficulties when leaving Georgia, it is recommended to declare imported cash if its amount exceeds $2,000.

The state duty does not need to be paid if the weight of personal items does not exceed 100 kg, the number of cigarettes is up to 200 pieces, alcohol - up to 10 liters of beer and up to 3 liters of wine, food products weighing no more than 5 kg, and there is also jewelry for personal use.

Documents required for child passengers

Children must be included in their parents' passport or have their own passport. In addition, it is important to have a birth certificate for the child. If a child is traveling without parents - with third parties (close relatives), it is necessary to have written permission from one of the parents or guardian, which will be certified by a notary.

Responsibility for illegal border crossing

Only one crossing between Russia and Georgia is currently open, namely the Kazbegi/Verkhniy Lars checkpoint along the Vladikavkaz-Tbilisi highway. As we noted earlier, the border cannot be crossed through Abkhazia and South Ossetia, since in this case entry will be considered illegal. In this case, you will end up in the bullpen in Georgia, after which you will need to pay a fine equal to approximately 1150 in US dollars. The border between Georgia and Russia, therefore, should only be crossed through this checkpoint.

There have been cases when foreign citizens entered Georgia through the Gantiadi-Adler checkpoint from Abkhazia and from Tskhinvali the Rock-Nizhny Zaramag checkpoint. When entering the country without going through border control, citizens who violate the rules are punished with a fine of about $230, and even imprisonment for a period of 3 to 5 years. In the future, the fine will be increased at least twice. If the illegal border crossing was committed by a group of people, then in this case the violators are punished by imprisonment for a term of 4 to 5 years.

What is the procedure for crossing the border from the Russian side?

You need to drive up to the barrier at the entrance to the checkpoint, and then get a control ticket at the booth. Then, having passed it, go to border control. You enter any free corridor, or the border guard himself points you in the direction. Next comes an inspection of the vehicle. There will be a hole under the car through which the bottom of the car can be seen; if necessary, mirrors can be used during the inspection.

After that stop at the end of the corridor, passengers will need to get out of the car and open all doors and the trunk. Customs officers will inspect the contents of the cabin and may also check all bags. After this procedure, citizens in a car or bus go through passport control and also receive a stamp confirming legal border crossing.

You must go through similar procedures when you leave Georgia. In terms of time, registration can take about 2-3 hours; the procedure for crossing the border from Georgia is much simpler, taking no more than 10-15 minutes.

What is subject to the declaration procedure?

This list includes: live animals, birds, plants, communications and high-frequency equipment, securities, medicines, jewelry, stones, valuables, art objects, antiques, poisonous and radioactive substances, cash and securities worth more than 30 thousand lari , as well as goods intended for commercial activities. To move jewelry, for example, a special permit is required, which must be issued by the Georgian Ministry of Culture.

An individual has the right to fill out a customs declaration in both Russian, Georgian or English.

Note

If you are bringing medications with you, problems may arise when entering Georgia. For example, drugs such as antibiotics and afobazole, which are available for free sale in our country, can only be purchased with a prescription in this country. For this reason, the tourist may not be allowed in or given permission to enter after lengthy proceedings. It is better not to keep them in sight and, at least, not to take them with you into large quantities. Restrictions apply to agricultural products: they can also be confiscated, especially cheeses.

Animal Rules

Pets with whom you are going on a trip must have with you. If, for example, there is a dog with you, you must have a record of standard vaccinations in the international veterinary passport of the animal, in particular, there must be a note about the rabies vaccination, which was given to the pet within a maximum of a year before visiting the country, and at least a month before. 3-5 days before your trip, fill out a certificate of form No. 1 at the veterinary clinic.

Transit

In order to travel through the territory of Georgia to another country, for example, Armenia, you can also take advantage of visa-free entry by presenting a foreign passport. Transit passengers are subject to the same rules as those who decide to stay in Georgia.

Obtaining a visa

A visa to Georgia is required for those Russians who plan to stay in the country for a period exceeding a year. Previously, the maximum time during which one could stay abroad was three months. In the event that a tourist or your private visit should last for a long time, or you plan to work or study in Georgia, then a visa will need to be obtained in advance in Russia. To clarify details on this issue, you need to contact the Georgian Interests Section at the Swiss Embassy.

Visa-free entry

Russian citizens who are going to take a short trip to Georgia do not have to worry about having a visa and other documents that would need to be specially collected for the trip. Visa-free entry is valid for all types of transport. Upon entry and exit, stamps with dates will be affixed; accordingly, based on the information contained in these marks, control will be carried out over compliance with the period of stay in the country.

To cross the border by air, it will be enough to have only one document - a passport. If there is a need to stay in the state for a period of more than a year, then it will be necessary to apply for a residence permit.