Discover the Fascinating History, Culture and Natural Charms of Georgia

Despite not being Europe’s most popular nation, Georgia offers a unique blend of fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty. Its location as a crossroad between Asia and Europe contributes to the diverse landscape that includes mountain ranges and breathtaking beaches.

Random Facts About Georgia and its People

1. The country is referred to as Saqartvelo by locals. The name Georgia was coined during the Middle Ages by St George, who was the patron of the region at that time.

2. In 2005, the Georgian National Police underwent significant changes after President Mikheil Saakashvili fired the entire traffic police department due to corruption. With U.S. help, a new and better-trained police force was created.

3. Farmhouses of the Svans, a subgroup of Georgians, often have well-built fortresses known as . These fortified households were built to protect their livestock and treasures from invasions by armies such as the Romans, Arabs, Assyrians, and Mongols.

4. Georgia is known for its wine production, with historical documents dating back to 8,000 years ago when alcoholic drinks were popular in the region.

5. Wine in Georgia was discovered accidentally, as locals buried grape juice in earthenware jars in shallow pits, and it spontaneously fermented.

6. The Georgian language has some unique opposite words to their meanings, such as Deda (Mother) and mama (Father).

7. Georgia has a version of the Simpsons called the Samazonadzes, featuring nearly all the original Simpson characters with slight edits.

8. According to Forbes, Georgia is the 7th safest country in the world due to its low crime rates and security measures enforced by previous governments.

9. In 2011, a 75-year-old Georgian woman named Aishtan Shakarian was arrested for accidentally cutting off Armenia’s internet for 12 hours while shoveling scrap metal.

10. In 2003, oil pipeline construction workers discovered what they believed was the world’s oldest honey, estimated to be around 5,500 years old.

11. Georgia does not recognize Taiwan’s passport due to United Nations non-recognition.

12. In 2005, former President George W. Bush survived a failed assassination attempt in Georgia by Vladimir, who was later arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment.

13. Georgia adopted Christianity in 326 AD, making it the second country after Armenia to do so; today, the majority of Georgians are active Orthodox Christians.

14. To counteract a low birth rate, more than 780 children were baptized at a mass infant baptism hosted by the Patriarch of All Georgia II.

15. Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon, a military-themed video keyboards released in 2001, foresaw the conflict between Georgia and Russia that occurred later.

16. Georgia celebrates Christmas on January 7th due to following the Julian Calendar, which sets Christmas on that stated date rather than the common 25th of December.

17. Georgians often make toasts for virtually any occasion, with wine being the most popular beverage and a common way to celebrate.

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