Area of ​​Georgia in sq km. Georgia: area without Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Cash and bank cards

History of Tbilisi- this is the sequence of events on the territory of the city of Tbilisi from its foundation in the 5th century to the present day. Approximately 1500 years. This is a really big and rich story, and it left behind many traces. There are cities whose rich history exists on its own, without affecting modernity, but this is not the case in Tbilisi. A lot has changed over 1500 years, a lot has died, and modern Tbilisi is 90% Soviet-built, but still there are some hints of the past left in it - and there are many of these hints. There is a lot we don’t know—for example, we don’t know what Tbilisi looked like in the 10th century. But it is already possible to draw some conclusions about its condition in the 12th - 13th centuries.

Tbilisi before its foundation

Many cities in eastern Georgia were founded during the Late Bronze Age, immediately after Kartian tribes settled on the plains from the Borjomi gorge to the Gombori ridge. But Tbilisi is an exception; it arose in the era of late antiquity. Someone definitely lived on its territory even before its founding. An ancient settlement was found in the Didube quarter and some settlements were excavated in the southern part of the Digomi region. There is an opinion that someone lived on the Metekhi rock in ancient times.

Tbilisi to its foundation is just a narrow gorge. The Sololaki ridge (a spur of the Trialeti ridge) stretches here to the east and abuts the Kura River at its tip, on which the Narikala fortress now stands. From the north, the foothills of the Caucasus Range gently descend and one spur of this range - Mount Mahata - also abuts the river with a rock known as Metekhi. Between the Metekhi rock and the Sololaki ridge there is a narrow gorge through which the Kura River once broke through to the east. This is a kind of gateway to the interior of the country, and this gorge-gate was previously strengthened by the canyon of the Tsavkisistskali River. To pass this narrow place, the traveler had to make a loop around the canyon, cross it in the area of ​​​​the modern entrance to the Botanical Garden, and then go around the mountain on which the Narikala fortress stands. Therefore, the appearance of a city in such a strategically important place is quite understandable. Another thing is unclear: why it arose so late.

Founding of Tbilisi

It is believed that Tbilisi appeared in 458, during the reign of King Vakhtang Gorgasal. In addition to Tbilisi, Vakhtang founded several more cities, but all in Kakheti. History has not preserved the details. The chronicles write briefly: he built a city. The popular consciousness has retained a more vivid picture of what is happening: there is a well-known legend about how King Vakhtang hunted pheasant here and discovered sulfur springs. This story is so famous that it was even included in the bestseller of the early twentieth century, Kurban Said’s novel “Ali and Nino”:

Once upon a time, in ancient times, a certain padishah released his falcon into the sky. He pounces on the black grouse. The padishah waits, but the falcon still does not return. Then he begins to look for his bird and wanders into a small forest. And in this forest there is a sulfur spring. The padishah sees that both the falcon and the black grouse are drowning in the water. When the padishah saw this source, he immediately decided to found Tiflis on this place. The grouse bathhouse is here, and instead of a forest now stands Tiflis. Tiflis began with sulfur, and it will end with sulfur.

Bulat Okudzhava wrote a verse about this in 1988:

The predatory beast struggled and writhed under your arrow.
Eternal darkness came to my eyes.
The star lit up. The hunting day is over.
And then a pheasant appeared from the bushes.

Oh, how brightly his plumage burned!
But the arrow sang and extinguished the fire...
And then, as if on the first night of creation,
"Let Tbilisi arise!" - you extended your hand.

This story has many visual implications. Near the sulfur baths there is now a statue of a falcon with a pheasant in its talons. The pheasant can be seen on the Tbilisi logo and on street hatches. The restaurant "Maidani" has a signature dish "Pheasant Gorgosali". In 1961, an equestrian statue of Vakhang Gorgasal was erected on the Meth rock, who, as it were, makes a decision on the founding of the city. The restaurant "Gorgasali" near the baths hints at the same events with its name.

Unfortunately, the dating of this event is somewhat arbitrary and we do not know against what historical background it happened. Therefore, it is difficult to imagine what exactly Vakhtang was thinking when creating new town. He could, for example, build it as a fortification on the approaches to Mtskheta. Or he could strengthen an already existing settlement that arose at the sulfur springs.

The first buildings of the new city apparently appeared on the rocky shore, on the cape between the Kura and Tsavkisistskali. Now on this place stands the Temple of the Forty Martyrs of Sebastia, and on the site of the Tsavkisistskali Canyon stands Aliyev Square. In 2012, foundations were found near the temple of the martyrs, which were identified as the remains of the palace of King Vakhtang.

Name

Why was the city called "Tbilisi"? In its name it is easy to guess the word თბილი ( tbili) meaning "warm". But this is a late formed word; in Old Georgian it looked like ტფილი ( tpili), and the city was called Tpilisi. Moreover, this name dates back to the 19th century.

Coin from the era of Nicholas I with the inscription TPILISI

It is believed that the word TPILI comes from the proto-Kartvelian root TEP, which in turn comes from the Nostratic language, from which it also came into Indo-European languages. Hence, by the way, the Slavic “Heat” and “Warmth”. So the initial letter “T” in the words “Warm” and “Tbilisi” is not a coincidence.

The name Tpilisi turned out to be unpronounceable for the Greeks, who do not have TP combinations in their language. They remade it for their convenience, inserting the letter “I”, and this is how the Greek “Tiflis” turned out. From Greek it came into Arabic, where it became “Tiflis”. A direct transformation of Tpilisi into Tiflis is unlikely, since the Arabs have no problems pronouncing the sounds TP or TB. They still officially call the city Tbilisi (تبليسي). The name "Tiflis" remained in the Turkish language, which, like Greek, does not allow combinations of TB.

It is interesting that instead of the word “warm” they could take the word “hot” (tskheli) as a basis and the city would be called Tskhelisi. If Mingrelians or Laz lived here, he would have turned out to be Tubulsi. If the Svans had lived, Tebidsi would have turned out.

Dark Middle Ages

Vakhtang died in 502, and his kingdom died even earlier, synchronously with the deposition of the Roman emperor Odoacer and the end of history Ancient World. In those years, the Middle Ages began in Europe, and in Georgia - the dark era of Persian occupation. Vakhtang was succeeded by his son Dachi or Darchil (522-534), who lived mainly in the Ujarma fortress. It was he who committed a historical act: he finally moved the capital from Mtskheta to Tbilisi. For what? Nobody remembers anymore. It is significant that he, in principle, did not live in Mtskheta. Maybe Mtskheta was destroyed by the Persians, or maybe there were too many Persian observers there.

Dachi also did something else important: he built in Tbilisi (or near Tbilisi) the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary (Anchiskhati), which to this day remains the oldest surviving building in the city. Little has been preserved from this temple: both the vaults and columns were rebuilt in later eras, and only the walls here and there are still the same ones that remember Tsar Dacha.

After Dacha, several more kings lived in Tbilisi: Bakur II, Farsman V, Farsman VI and Bakur III, but the latter lived in Ujarma, and at that time there was already a Persian garrison in Tbilisi. In 580, Bacur died and the Persians abolished royal power as such.

Just during the years of the crisis of royal power, the Assyrian fathers came to Iberia and settled near Mtskheta. From there they then dispersed throughout the country, and David, the future David of Gareji, settled in a cave on the mountain (Mtatsminda) near Tbilisi. Once a week he walked down the mountain along a path (now Besiki Street) to approximately the modern Marriott Hotel and from there he walked into the city to buy groceries. At this time, quite a lot of Persian-Zoroastrians already lived in Tbilisi. The conflict with them led to known history with the trial of David and the appearance of the Kashveti Temple at the site of the trial. After this, David went to Gareji, but his cave on the mountain and the spring near the cave remained sacred and revered places. And even the path to the cave itself became something of a pilgrimage path.

At this time, the endless Iranian-Byzantine wars dragged on and Iranian armies probably often passed through Tbilisi. In 591, the Byzantine-Iranian Peace Treaty (Treaty of Ctesiphon) was concluded. Part of Iberia, with its capital in Mtskheta, went to Byzantium, and part, with its capital in Tbilisi, went to Iran and became the center of Iberia controlled by Iran. It was probably at this time that a Zoroastrian temple appeared in Tbilisi, which has come down to us in a greatly rebuilt form and is known in the city as “Ateshga”.

Back in 588, Emperor Mauritius sent a certain Guram, a descendant of Vakhtang Gorgasal, as ruler to Iberia. Guram died in 590 and his son Stefanoz became the ruler, who ruled Iberius at the time of the conclusion of the Treaty of Ctesiphon. Probably his capital was Mtskheta, but then Stefanoz made friends with Iran and moved the capital back to Tbilisi. This man went down in history by building the famous Jvari Temple above Mtskheta.

Stephanoz's reorientation led to the invasion of the Byzantine army under the personal leadership of Emperor Heraclius II. The Khazar army came to the aid of the emperor, and the Persians sent a detachment of 1000 people to help Iberia. The Byzantines besieged Tbilisi and the siege lasted about two months. Then Heraclius went towards Iran, and the siege lasted for some time and eventually the city was taken. Stefanoz was removed, and Adarnase, a distant descendant of Vakhtang Gorgasal, was put in his place. He died in 642 and his son Stefanoz II became the ruler, under whom, in 645, the army of the Caliphate approached Tbilisi. The Arabs concluded a treaty of friendship with the city and left.

Capital of the emirate

The treaty of 645 made Iberia part of the Arab Caliphate. At first, kings still lived in Tbilisi and paid a small tax to the Arabs. This lasted until 735, when the Arabs suspected Georgia of collaborating with the Khazars, and Mervan the Deaf went through the country on a punitive expedition. Tbilisi was burned to the ground - this is the first recorded case of its complete burning. Mervan established the Tiflis Emirate in Transcaucasia and left. The kings still existed as pale shadows, imperceptible by history, until they disappeared in 775. Tiflis emirs began to rule the city. How exactly power passed from kings to emirs is unknown.

Tiflis under the Arabs became part of the Arab single economic space and rapidly grew into a large shopping mall. He became big city with mosques, baths, palaces, madrassas and caravanserais. But the emirs decided to show separatism, and in 853 there was another punitive invasion. The commander Buga Al-Kabir turned the flourishing city into a heap of ashes. For the second time in its history.

Tbilisi remained the capital of the emir until the end of the 9th century, and throughout the 10th, and the entire 11th, and the beginning of the 12th. In the 10th century, the relics of Saint Shushanik were reburied on the Metekhi rock - right in the most prominent place in the Muslim city. Apparently, the Tbilisi Christian community had many rights. I wish I knew how much.

In 1795, the last destruction of Tbilisi took place: on September 12, the army of Agha Muhamad Khan, as punishment for the Georgian-Russian negotiations, razed the city to the ground. The stone buildings were almost undamaged, but all private buildings were burned to the ground. The city took thirty years to recover from this devastation.

Capital of Tiflis province

In 1802, the Georgian kingdom was liquidated and Tbilisi became the capital of the province and the main base of the Russian army. Since the anti-Russian uprisings did not reach Tbilisi, the situation in the city was stable. We started building something. Count Knorring, the first “chief in Georgia,” built the first simple house for the commander-in-chief. An arsenal and a gymnasium were built. In 1802, the fortress walls and towers began to be demolished, and so the modern streets of Pushkin and Dadiani began to form. In 1804, the royal baths were converted into a mint.

In 1807, there were already 16,000 people living in Tbilisi.

Tbilisi recovered very slowly after the defeat of 1795. The Russian administration built little. In 1816, General Ermolov demolished the royal Metekhi castle and began building a prison in its place. In 1824, the building of the Headquarters of the Caucasian Corps was built. In 1827, lightning struck the Narikala fortress and the explosion demolished the Church of St. Nicholas, built under Tamara, if not earlier. Local merchants were only able to build a large stone building by 1818: the Artsruni caravanserai.

In May 1829, Pushkin arrived in Tbilisi. It was something like the arrival of a fashion blogger to an as yet unpromoted resort. For the first time in Russian history Someone other than the military found out about Tbilisi. Pushkin lived in house No. 5 on Pushkin Street, in a house with windows overlooking the headquarters of the Caucasian Corps and could see the construction of the Zubalashvili caravanserai, which began in 1827. There seem to be no photographs of his house, but a drawing from around 1895 is known:

Capital of the Confederacy

In January 1918, the Bolsheviks dispersed the Constituent Assembly, which ultimately did not have time to decide the fate of Transcaucasia, so the entire region was left to its own devices. Transcaucasia became an independent federation, and Tbilisi became its capital. The Transcaucasian Seim in the building of the Vorontsov Palace became something like the parliament of the new federal republic. Tbilisi maintained this status throughout January, February, March, April and May. The federation collapsed in May. On May 26, Georgia declared its independence. Tbilisi became the capital of the Georgian Republic. The pen with which the Declaration of Independence was signed is now on display in the National Museum.

On June 10, the German army, allied to the republic, entered Tbilisi. A joint Georgian-German parade took place on Rustaveli. On the same day, the Turks tried to break through to Tbilisi, but were stopped by the Germans. In December 1918 the Germans left, and in January 1919 the British army entered the city. But in July the British also left.

Visually, nothing changed in Tbilisi; events took place exclusively in the political sphere. In May 1920, the Bolsheviks decided to seize Georgia: on May 3, the Bolsheviks rebelled in Tbilisi and seized the officer school. But the war with Georgia was lost near Kiev: on May 7, the Poles took Kyiv and on the same day the Bolsheviks signed a peace treaty with Georgia. But this only delayed the war by one year.

Battle for Tbilisi

In February 1921, the Red Army entered Georgia from three sides, in particular from Baku in the direction of Tbilisi. On February 18, the 11th Army approached the outskirts of Tbilisi: on the left bank of the Kura to the village of Karadzhala and on the right to the village of Soganlug.

On February 19, the first attacks began in the area of ​​Soganlug station and at the Shavnabad monastery. The left flank of the Red Army began to bypass the city from the west and attacked the Kojori Heights. All these attacks were repulsed. On February 24 - 25, a second offensive began with the involvement of tanks and aircraft. The defenders of Tbilisi managed to repel all attacks on the Kojori and Shavnabad Heights, but the Red Army detachments bypassed the Georgian positions further and further. On the night of February 25, Soviet tanks broke through to the Navtlug station.

On the morning of February 25, it was decided to surrender the city. Soviet armored trains entered the Tbiissky station. Infantry units occupied the Kojori Heights and entered the city, going down Sololakskaya Street to Freedom Square. On the same day, the Bolshevik government moved to Tbilisi from Shulaveri.

Capital of the republic

The first years of Soviet power changed little in Tbilisi. The Soviet leadership still gathered in the same Vorontsov Palace; the Metekhi prison remained a prison, except that it had more work. The Soviet Georgian leaders before 1931 were not radical enough and they would all be shot in 1937. But in November 1931, Beria led Georgia, and here appearance Tbilisi began to change: so Tbilisi experienced not only Vorontsovization, but also “Bereization.”

Last days The Soviet era was remembered for an eerie catastrophe: on June 1, 1990, there was a break in the line cable car(Rustaveli-Mtatsminda), the lower station was damaged, and one cabin fell on a residential building. About 20 people died.

On October 28, 1990, an epoch-making event occurred. In the elections to the Supreme Council, the Communist Party received only 64 seats out of 155. On November 14, Chairman of the Supreme Council Irakli Abashidze left his post and Zviad Gamsakhurdia was elected in his place. The Soviet era in Georgia has ended.

Dogwood flag

In November 1990, Zviad Gamsakhurdia became president of the country, and whole year nothing happened in the history of the city, and then something terrible happened: in December 1991, the National Guard rebelled and besieged the president in the Parliament building. A month of fighting for parliament has begun. Almost all of the surrounding neighborhoods burned out. The Oriant Hotel burned down. The First Gymnasium burned to the ground. The Marriott also burned down. The House of Communications almost burned down. Miraculously, the Kashveti Temple survived, although it was covered with bullet marks. For several years after this, the city center was similar to Stalingrad after the surrender of Paulus.

On January 6, parliament fell. The Kitovani-Ioseliani-Sigua triumvirate came to power in Tbilisi. But a province rebelled against Tbilisi: in this case, Megrelia. This is how the split of Georgia into Tbilisi and the provinces began for the first time. This war on extinction continues to this day. In this war, Tbilisi took the thankless role of the capital of the post-Soviet dictatorship. Mingrelia rebelled in January, March and July 1992. And again in September 1993. Tbilisi won the first war with the province.

With this victory, the most eventless era in the history of the city began. Some things were rebuilt: for example, the Parliament, the Gymnasium and the Marriott. But everything else gradually collapsed. The restaurant on Mtatsminda closed and was completely abandoned. On June 21, 2000, the cable car became unusable due to a broken cable. The Adjara and Iveria hotels were given to refugees in 1995 and turned into terrible slum high-rise buildings.

In November 2003, Tbilisi's second war against the province began: protests against election violations began in the city. Residents of Megrelia and Imereti came to the aid of the protesters. The main protest rally took place at Freedom Square. A parallel loyalist rally gathered in front of the Houses of Parliament. On November 20, Shevardnadze fled from parliament. The province defeated Tbilisi. This event went down in history as the "Rose Revolution".

Earthquake 2002

Natural events superimposed on political cataclysms: in April 2002, the city was rocked by a magnitude 6 earthquake, the epicenter of which is located right there, in the area Tbilisi Sea. Hurt very badly Old city. Some houses began to crack, some collapsed completely. Of the 2,400 damaged houses, about 600 were seriously damaged. 6 people died, 42 were hospitalized.

The destruction was so great that some houses were not restored even in 2019 - these are partly private houses, which the municipality does not have the right to touch.

Reconstruction era

The new government, which came to Georgia in March 2004, inherited a city destroyed both by the 2002 earthquake and the devastation of the Shevardnadze era. Something had to be done with the city, but this task itself seemed unsolvable due to its scale. In fact, it was necessary to rebuild the entire Old City, Sololaki, Chugureti and Avlabar. In fact, half of Tbilisi needed to be demolished, the foundations replaced, and then rebuilt. Georgia did not have that kind of money. Moreover, the events of the Rose Revolution were, as it were, a victory for the provinces over the capital: after 2003, Tbilisi stopped using all the country’s resources, as it did under Shevardnadze. His interests were important, but not primary.

Subsequently, Saakashvili will be accused of building “Potemkin villages,” that is, repairing only facades. In reality, everything was exactly the opposite: first they built hospitals, schools and municipalities in the provinces, and secondarily they dealt with the capital. Even an experiment on complete reconstruction began in distant Sighnaghi.

And yet, in 2004, a lot of new things appeared in the city: the Trinity Cathedral was opened, which took 10 years to build using private funds. They built the Church of St. Nicholas in the Narikala fortress and the Tabor Monastery on the neighboring mountain.

The complete reconstruction of the city began with the section between the Maidan and the Sulfur Baths. Then it spread to the Kldisubani quarter (Bethlemskaya street and everything around). The Tbilisi Canyon was the last to be cultivated, in the fall of 2012. In 2009, the Avlabari residence was completed, and in 2010, the Peace Bridge appeared.

The reconstruction greatly changed the visual appearance of the Maidan surroundings, as well as Freedom Square. During the last election year of 2012, the restaurant on Mtatsminda was restored and the cable car to Narikala was built.

Reconstruction continued in 2013, while Saakashvili was president and Giorgi Ugulava was mayor. In November 2014, Ugulava was removed and David Narmania, whose name is associated with the era of stagnation in the life of the city, became mayor. In 2014 - 2016, almost nothing was built in the city.

Modernity

The last phase of Tbilisi's history began in the spring of 2014, when all construction and reconstruction stopped. Nothing happened for two years in a row. Private business has also slowed down, but not completely. The largest event of the era occurred in June 2015: a mudflow descended along the bed of the Vera River and washed away half of the Tbilisi Zoo. Almost 20 people and almost 200 animals died.

Some revival came in the pre-election year of 2016: the Baratashvili Bridge was repaired, Pushkin Street was redone, and a new cable car was launched from Vake Park to Turtle Lake. Some of it was paved. By the end of the year, they even began to repair the Narikala fortress in its lower part.

The October 2016 elections changed nothing. Tbilisi defeated the province again.

Tbilisi (Georgia) - the most detailed information about the city with photos. The main attractions of Tbilisi with descriptions, guides and maps.

Tbilisi city (Georgia)

Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia, located in the eastern part of the country on the banks of the Kura River (Mtkvari). This ancient city, founded in the 5th century, which is now home to more than 1 million people. Tbilisi is one of the most charming cities in the Caucasus, where amazing sights and unique treasures are hidden among the narrow atmospheric streets, cozy old courtyards and crooked houses. Despite the fact that Tbilisi has been destroyed and rebuilt several dozen times over its one and a half thousand year history, the old city has retained its medieval charm and, to a large extent, its original condition.

Geography and climate

Tbilisi is located in the center of Eastern Georgia in a basin bounded by the spurs of the Trialeti ridge, the Saguram ridge and the Iori Highlands. The climate is temperate continental with relatively hot summers and cool winters. Thanks to its proximity to the warm seas (Black and Caspian) and the Greater Caucasus Range, which blocks the invasion of air masses, Tbilisi’s climate is warmer than in cities at the same latitudes. The average annual temperature is 12.7 degrees. The coldest month is January with temperatures around 0. The average summer temperature is more than 20 degrees.

Practical information

1. Population - 1.1 million people.
2. Area - 720 square kilometers.
3. Language - Georgian.
4. Currency is Georgian lari.
5. Time - UTC +4.
6. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 360 days.

Best time to visit

Best time To visit Tbilisi the period is from May to October. July and August can be quite hot. To enjoy Tbilisi without tourists, it is better to come in winter or early spring.

Story

According to legend, Tbilisi was founded in the 5th century AD by the ancient Georgian king Vakhtang Gorgasali. Already in the 6th century the city became the capital of the state. Interestingly, the settlement on the site of modern Tbilisi was marked on Roman maps. In the historical center, baths dating back to the 1st century AD were discovered, as well as the remains of ancient settlements from the 3rd-4th centuries BC. The name Tbilisi (formerly Tiflis) translates as “warm”, due to the many thermal springs.

Georgian legend tells that the territory of Tbilisi was previously covered with forests, in which the ruler of the ancient Georgian state, Vakhtang I Gorgasal, hunted. He shot a bird, which fell into hot spring and cooked. According to another version, it was a deer that ran to the source and was healed. The king considered this a “good” sign and founded a city here.

In the 6th century, the capital of the Georgian kingdom was moved from Mtskheta to Tbilisi. In 626, the city was captured by the Khazars after a months-long siege. In 653, Georgia was subjugated by the Arabs, although Tbilisi retained some independence for almost a century. In 736 the city was captured by Arab troops. Arabs ruled Georgia until the 11th century. In 1122, Tbilisi became the capital of a united and independent Georgia.

The heyday of the Georgian kingdom lasted until the 13th century. In 1226, Tbilisi was ravaged by the troops of Jalal-Ad-Din, and in 1238 it was captured by the Mongols, who ruled Georgia until 1327. In 1366, the great plague reached Tbilisi. From the 14th to the 17th centuries the city experienced several devastations and destructions:

• In 1386, Tbilisi was captured by Timur's hordes.
• In 1444, the city was destroyed by the troops of the Kara Koyunlu state.
• In 1536, Tbilisi was captured by the Iranian army.

In 1490 (after the collapse of the Georgian state) Tbilisi became the capital of the Kingdom of Kartli. In 1578 the city was occupied by the Turks. In 1783, Georgia accepted the protectorate of the Russian Empire. Tbilisi remains the main city of the country. In 1918, Georgia's independence was declared. The independent Georgian state did not last long and already in the 30s of the 20th century the country became part of Soviet Union. Georgia became independent in 1991 after the collapse of the USSR.

How to get there

Tbilisi has international Airport- the largest in Georgia. The capital of the country is connected by air with Moscow, Riga, Rome, Vienna, Minsk, Tallinn, Kiev, Amsterdam and other cities of Russia, the Near and Far Abroad. Trains and buses 37/137 go from the airport to the center. Ticket price - 0.5 GEL. A taxi costs 20-30 GEL. Tbilisi has railway connections with Baku, Yerevan, Batumi, Kutaisi, Gori, Borjomi. Buses connect the city with most cities in Georgia, as well as cities in Russia, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Public transport in Tbilisi - metro, buses and minibuses. A trip by metro and bus costs 0.5 GEL. Minibuses are a little more expensive.

Shopping and purchases

Avoid shopping and going to restaurants in the area of ​​Kote Abkhazi Street. This is a popular tourist area where prices are often greatly inflated. A large flea market is located near Freedom Square and is held every Saturday. This the best place to buy antiques and various interesting things. The main market is located near the Dynamo Arena. Basically, people buy in Tbilisi: antiques, jewelry, local products (chacha, churchkhela, wine, cheese, mineral water). Shops with these goods are located throughout the historical center.

Food and drink

Georgian cuisine is tasty, cheap and versatile. In Tbilisi you can have a hearty and inexpensive meal. Traditional Georgian dishes: puri (bread), khachapuri (flatbread with cheese), chvishtari (corn baked goods), dzhonjoli (pickled flowers of some plant), badrijani (eggplant rolls), pkhali, khinkali, dolma, mtsvadi (kebab), lobio, chashushuli (stewed veal), chakapuli (meat with spices), churchkhela, chiri (dried persimmon). The meal is accompanied by chacha, a glass of Georgian wine and a glass of mineral water.

Abanotubani District

Attractions

The Old Town is the heart of Tbilisi. This area is located between Freedom Square, the ancient ruins of the Narikala fortress and Kura. Despite the fact that Tbilisi has been devastated several times throughout its history, the historical center has been preserved surprisingly well and has retained its special atmosphere and charm.

Old Tbilisi is an area of ​​narrow streets lined with ancient churches, ancient houses with cute wooden balconies and quiet courtyards. This ancient architecture is somewhat reminiscent of Renaissance and Italian architecture. The old town also features a number of eclectic attractions and modern architectural elements. The historical center of Tbilisi is full of hidden treasures and interesting places that can be discovered with a simple walk.

Narikala is one of the symbols of Tbilisi, an ancient Persian fortress built in the 4th century and expanded in the 8th century by the Arabs. The fortress is located on a high hill and consists of two parts. In the lower part, in the 90s of the 20th century, the Church of St. Nicholas, which is located in the same place where it was located ancient church 13th century. Most of The fortress was destroyed by an earthquake in 1827. The main reason why tourists come here is the stunning views of the old city and the Kura Valley. You can climb the fortress by funicular, which departs near the Metekhi temple.

The Metekhi Temple or the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the main attractions of Tbilisi. This ancient 12th century church is located on a cliff above the Kura River. Nearby is an equestrian statue of the legendary Georgian ruler Vakhtang Gorgasali. The first temple on this site was built in the 5th century. Presumably there was also a royal palace here. Therefore, this place is one of the oldest in Tbilisi. The old church was destroyed by the Mongols. The existing temple dates from the late 13th century. The building was damaged by fire at the end of the 18th century during the Persian invasion. The temple grounds were used as a prison in the 19th century, and the temple itself was almost demolished in Soviet time under Stalin.

Mother - Georgia or Kartlis Deda - 20-meter tall aluminum statue near the Narikala fortress. It is a symbol not only of Tbilisi, but of the entire country. The sword in her hand is for enemies, and the cup of wine is for friends.

Sioni is the former cathedral of Tbilisi, which until 2004 (before the construction of Sameba) was the main religious building of the capital of Georgia. The first church on this site was built at the end of the 6th century. The temple was restored several times, destroyed by the Arabs and an earthquake in 1668. The Arabs damaged ancient frescoes and iconostasis. The existing structure largely dates from the first half of the 19th century.

Church of the Holy Trinity or Sameba - grandiose Cathedral, completed in 2004. This is the largest religious building in Tbilisi, 84 meters high, with a beautiful gilded dome.

Kashveti is an early 20th century church on Rustaveli Avenue.

Rustaveli Avenue is the central street of Tbilisi, named after the national Georgian poet. Starts from Freedom Square.

Freedom Square is one of the central squares Tbilisi, located in the old city. Mostly surrounded by monumental 19th century architecture. Installed in the center tall statue St. George.

Gabriadze Theater is a puppet theater located in the heart of Tbilisi. Is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city with a fabulous clock tower. On the facade of the tower there are hundreds of hand-made tiles created by Gabriadze himself. Every hour an angel comes out of the door above and strikes the bell with a hammer, and at noon and 7 p.m. you can watch a small puppet show called “The Circle of Life.”

Anchiskhati - oldest church Tbilisi, built in the 6th century under King Dacha Ujarmeli. The building was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The brick bell tower was built in the 17th century. The building is made of tuff and is a three-nave basilica with horseshoe-shaped apses.

The Bridge of Peace is one of the first modern architectural landmarks of Tbilisi, a glass and steel structure designed by the Italian architect De Luci. Is pedestrian bridge through Kura.

Abanotubani is one of the most charming districts of Tbilisi, famous for its baths on natural sulfur thermal springs. In this area you can find many budget hotels, stroll along the old canal and admire the Narikala fortress.

Upper Bethlehem Church (Zemo Betlemi) is an ancient religious building under the Narikala fortress. It is believed that the church was founded in the 5th century by the legendary founder of Tbilisi, Vakhtang Gorgasali. In the 15th century, the Armenian monastery of Petkhain was built on this site. The existing building dates back to the 19th century, when extensive reconstruction of the façade and construction of the dome were carried out. At the same time, the ancient foundation made of old brick is easily distinguishable.

The Lower Bethlehem Church in the style of Armenian architecture was built in the first half of the 18th century from old Georgian bricks. Since 1988 it has been used by the Orthodox Church of Georgia.

Capital of Georgia. The name Tbilisi was first mentioned in the 4th century; its appearance is associated with the presence of warm sulfur springs in the city (Georgian Tbili is warm). The ancient form of the name Tpilisi, from which the names of the city adopted by other peoples are derived... Geographical encyclopedia

Tbilisi- Tbilisi. Kura River and Metekhi Cathedral (founded in 1278). TBILISI (until 1936 Tiflis), capital of Georgia, on the Kura River. 1283 thousand inhabitants. Railway junction. Metropolitan (1966). Mechanical engineering (machine tools, electric locomotives, instruments, agricultural... ... Illustrated Encyclopedic Dictionary

Capital of the Georgian SSR. Known since the 4th century, the capital of Georgia since the 12th century. Stretched in a narrow strip for almost 30 km in the river valley. Kura and on the adjacent slopes of the mountains. In the southeastern part of Tbilisi there is its ancient core, the Old Town with narrow streets,... ... Art encyclopedia

- (until 1936 Tiflis), capital of Georgia, on the Kura River. 1283 thousand inhabitants. Railway junction. Metropolitan (1966). Mechanical engineering (machine tools, electric locomotives, instruments, agricultural machines, electrical equipment, etc.), light (textile,... ... Modern encyclopedia

- (until 1936 in Russian transcription Tiflis) the capital of Georgia, on the river. Kura. Railway junction. 1279 thousand inhabitants (1991; including settlements, subordinate to the city administration, 1283 thousand inhabitants). Mechanical engineering (production of machine tools,... ... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

Tiflis Dictionary of Russian synonyms. Tbilisi noun, number of synonyms: 3 city (2765) capital ... Synonym dictionary

- (until 1936 in Russian transcription Tiflis) the capital of the Georgian SSR. Large industrial, scientific and Cultural Center nal transport hub. Located in the Tbilisi basin, along both banks of the river. Chickens, at an altitude of 406,522 m. Average... ... Great Soviet Encyclopedia

TBILISI- GEORGIA Tbilisi (until 1936 in Russian transcription Tiflis), the capital of Georgia, is located in the valley of the Kura River in the Caucasus Mountains. The city's population is 1,353,000 inhabitants. Convenient location of the city on one of mountain routes, connecting the Black and Caspian... ... Cities and countries

- (until 1936 Tiflis) city, capital of Gruz. SSR, one of the largest industrial, cultural and scientific. centers of the USSR, located in the valley of the river. Chickens. Railway junction, airport, beginning military point cargo. roads. As of Jan. 1 1972 927 t. (in 1897 160.6 tons, in 1926 294 tons... Soviet historical encyclopedia

- (until 1936 Tiflis) capital of Georgia. USSR, industrial and cultural center. 1066 thousand inhabitants (as of Jan. 1979). T. is Ch. city ​​of Georgia from 5th to 6th centuries. Information about music. T.'s life was preserved in ancient chronicles and literature. monuments of ancient centuries. WITH… … Music Encyclopedia

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• Tbilisi is the capital of the Georgian SSR. Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia. One of the oldest cities in the world, one of the largest industrial, cultural and scientific centers of the Soviet Union. Founded in the second half of the 5th century. Its name...
• Tbilisi. Guide, Georgy Khutsishvili. Georgians say: “When a guest comes to the house, it is the sunrise. When he leaves the house, it is the sunset for the owner.” Let's hope the sun never sets on the inhabitants of this ancient...

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. This small country in Transcaucasia on east coast 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 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. There are three monuments in Georgia World Heritage UNESCO.
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. Northern part countries are mountains Greater Caucasus. The south of the country is occupied by the lower ranges of the Lesser Caucasus. Highest Peaks Georgia - mountains 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, plant 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

The first state on the territory of 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 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 are the period of real prosperity of the Georgian state. Georgia achieved power under David IV the Builder and Queen Tamar 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 is an area with a large 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. Largest airport The country is, of course, in the capital. Georgia has regular flights from most major cities Europe, Asia and Russia, including: Moscow, Kyiv, 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 The largest city Georgia, where a third of the population lives. 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 - picturesque small town, where the famous mineral water is produced.

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

The ancient capital of Eastern Georgia and the center of 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 - ancient monastery 6th century, 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. Represents dormant 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. It is a unique complex of medieval and early modern fortresses and fortified houses made of stone.

Uplistsikhe - 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 number of meat, spices, 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.

In the very heart Caucasus mountains The city of Tbilisi (until 1936 Tiflis) is located - the capital of the Republic of Georgia. It is quite difficult to find on the world map another capital of a state with the same ancient and rich history.

According to legend, the city was founded by King Vakhtang Gorgasali. While hunting, the royal falcon grabbed a pheasant and, under the weight of its burden, fell into a hot spring. Both birds were boiled in boiling water in the blink of an eye. After the incident, the king ordered the pawning of this unusual place city. But pragmatic archaeologists and historians refute this poetic version of the founding of the city and claim that Tbilisi has existed since the 4th century. AD, and this is long before the reign of King Gorgasali. But the undoubted fact remains that the settlement in this place arose precisely thanks to the warm sulfur springs, because in translation from Georgian “tbili” means “warm”.

Tbilisi, like many capitals of the world, is not only the cultural and administrative center of its country, but also one of the largest industrial centers Georgia. The largest machine-building and metalworking plants in the republic are located here: machine-tool plant, aviation plant named after. Dimitrov, agricultural machinery, wine-making equipment, iron foundry, etc., as well as light and food industry enterprises.

Thanks to its versatility, Tbilisi will provide a decent vacation, full of joy and positive emotions, for people of different ages and taste preferences.

Climate

Tbilisi stretches along a long narrow strip along the river Chickens(Mtkvari) by Tbilisi Basin almost 30 km, reaching the slopes of nearby mountains. The influence of the Black Sea is still felt here, because... The Greater Caucasus ranges run from west to east, so the climate in this part of Georgia is considered subtropical with long, hot summers (air temperatures can reach +40 ºС). Winter is mild with average temperature about +1 ºС, spring and autumn are warm and rainy. Largest quantity precipitation falls from April to June.

Nature

Natural beauty is a source of pride for the Georgian capital. From almost anywhere in the city you can admire the mountain peaks and river Mtkvari, sparkling merrily in the sun and carrying its waters across the entire city. In the warm season, Tbilisi is literally surrounded by greenery and fragrant with the aroma of all kinds of flowers.

In the very heart of the city lies Tbilisi Botanical Garden. In the Middle Ages, there were royal gardens here, which after Georgia became part of the Russian Empire became the property of the state and received the status Botanical Garden. A river flows through it Tsavkisistskali, dividing the garden into two parts. There are several picturesque bridges across the river, and there is a forty-meter waterfall. Amazing plants were brought here from all parts of the planet: from North America and Japan, Siberia and China, the Mediterranean and the Himalayas. There is a unique collection of medicinal Georgian plants.

Without leaving the city limits, you can visit the sea. In the northeast of Tbilisi, adjacent to Tbilisi national park, spread out Tbilisi Sea, more precisely the 9 km long Tbilisi Reservoir, created in 1952.

Three kilometers from the city at an altitude of 800 m above sea level there is a small Turtle Lake, formed by underground springs. You can get to it by cable car.

And, of course, speaking of natural features Tbilisi, it is worth mentioning the thermal springs, thanks to which the city appeared. Today this place occupies a block Abanotubani, there are world-famous baths that have been operating since the 16th century.

Attractions

To visit all the most beautiful and interesting places Tbilisi, you will need to come to this place more than once amazing city, and, without a doubt, everyone will find a place to their liking.

As a rule, sightseeing in Tbilisi begins with Old town, historical center capital Cities. The whole of it is built up with two- and three-story houses, twined with vines. Each house has its own story, funny and sad, fabulous and completely true, which a local resident you meet is ready to tell you with the readiness of a real guide.

In the Old Town on Mount Mtatsminda there is Narikala fortress(“Impregnable Fortress”), which is considered the soul of Tbilisi. The mountain offers amazing views of the city.

From Narikala fortress hiking trail leads to the monument " Kartlis Deda”, which translated means “Mother of Georgia”. Then, according to a one-of-a-kind Betlemi staircase street past the temples of the 9th-10th centuries. you can go down to Zion Cathedral, built in the VI-VII centuries. AD Within its walls is kept the main Christian relic of Georgia - the cross of St. Nina, the enlightener of Georgia.

Anchiskhati― the oldest church in Tbilisi, built in the 6th century. ― received its name in honor of the Anchi Icon, deeply revered by Georgian Christians. This is the only building that has been partially preserved almost since the founding of Tbilisi.

One of the main attractions of the city and its symbol is Metekhi temple, which was once the residence of the Georgian kings.

Not far from the temple are the famous Tbilisi sulfur baths: Iraklievskaya, Kazennaya, Bebutovskaya and etc.

And, of course, it’s impossible not to look at the central street of the capital - Shota Rustaveli Avenue(Georgian poet of the 12th century). Dozens of city attractions are located on one street. This and National Museum Georgia, And Church of St. George(Kashueti), and Opera and Ballet Theatre, and much more.

Nutrition

On the streets of Tbilisi you can find restaurants serving cuisine from many countries of the world: from Chinese and Indian to French and Italian. But, of course, nothing beats an authentic Georgian restaurant in the heart of the country.

Georgian cuisine is replete with all kinds of dishes: ojakhuri, khinkali, khachapuri, kuchmachi, pkhali, kubdari and other tasty, but not entirely clear names. Hospitable waiters will help you understand all their diversity and choose something exactly to your taste. National songs are played in many restaurants and dance groups perform.

Breakfast on the restaurant terrace In the shadow of Metekhi", from where you can admire the Narikala fortress and the Old Town, will set the tourist in the right mood for a fruitful walk around the city. Afterwards, if you get hungry, you can have a snack at fast food restaurants " Shemoikhede Genatsvale" Khinkali lovers should definitely visit " House of Khinkali"on Rustaveli Ave.

In addition to all kinds of restaurants, cafes and bars, you can sit quietly, drink tea and “digest” everything you see in small teahouses, and on a hot day, be sure to treat yourself to the most delicious ice cream in the city in the establishment Luca Polare("Polar bear").

Accommodation

Tbilisi hotels offer their guests rooms of varying comfort and price categories (from $25 to $370 per night). Large hotels are "Astoria" Holiday Inn, Grand Hotel, Betsy's Hotel and etc.

More than 60 hostels are open today for tourists in Tbilisi. The cost of living there ranges from $8 to $25 per night.

You can also rent an apartment for daily rent in any part of the city. The cost of renting apartments starts from $35.

Entertainment and relaxation

Works in Tbilisi great amount museums and exhibition halls. The oldest Georgian art is the creation of jewelry from cloisonne enamel. Museum of Art stores the most rich collection these decorations. The treasures of the museum also include the cross of Queen Tamara and the famous Anchian icon. A real repository of objects of Caucasian culture is State Museum of Georgia. Silk Museum will also attract the attention of anyone who knows how to appreciate beauty.

People in Tbilisi love theater. Musical productions of Tbilisi troupes are extremely popular all over the world.

You can go with children to aquapark or visit the children's Mziuri town, where the frozen heroes of Nodar Dumbadze’s works live.

Night clubs ( Beatles Club, Roxana, City Club etc.) and bars that are open until the last customer leaves will captivate lovers of nightlife.

Purchases

In almost all large stores, hotels and restaurants in Tbilisi you can pay by credit card.

There are few supermarkets in the old part of the city, but in different corners of the narrow winding streets there are cute shops where they sell bread, cheese, herbs, wine by the glass and much more.

When leaving the city, do not forget about the need to stock up on all kinds of Georgian gifts for yourself and your loved ones. Cloisonné enamel jewelry can be bought on Rustaveli Ave., as well as in specialized stores ( Makhalaki, Presents and Souvenirs), in hotel lobbies Marriott And Radisson, and at the open market, where you can bargain. Real Georgian wine can be purchased in stores Benjamin's And Vinoteca. For paintings and souvenirs you should go to Dry Bridge. The best spices, Georgian cheese, churchkhela and sauces are sold on " Deserter» bazaar.

Transport

You can travel around Tbilisi by bus, minibus, metro and taxi.

Payment for buses, minibuses and metro is done using a special card - Metromani. You can pay in cash on buses and minibuses; the cost for one trip on any type of transport does not exceed $0.5.

The metro operates from 6 am to midnight.

Taxi fares should be agreed upon before the start of the trip.

Airplanes from leading cities in the world arrive at Tbilisi airport.

Connection

Works in many hotels, restaurants and almost all hostels free wifi. There are a number of Internet cafes on Rustaveli Avenue. You can also purchase a card from one of three mobile operators(Geocell, Beeline and Magti) operating in Georgia and use the service wireless internet costing from 12 to 18 $ per 1 GB of traffic.

You can call any country in the world from Tbilisi from pay phones that work using cards, as well as from post offices.

Safety

If you have any questions or difficulties, you must contact a patrol police officer. The officer will politely and competently resolve the problem.

When traveling with your own vehicle, you must strictly follow the rules traffic and city parking rules, you should not travel in the dark. The city maintains strict control over maintaining order on the roads and streets; violators are subject to heavy fines.

Business climate

Convenient conditions for doing business in Georgia lead to an increase in investment receipts in the country and, in particular, in the development of the capital’s economy. For example, the company Rezid Holding GMBH from Austria invested in the construction of a multifunctional complex, which will consist of two skyscrapers that will house beauty salons, cafes, spa and fitness centers, swimming pools, etc.

Business in Tbilisi, as throughout Georgia, is subject to the following taxes: profit tax (15%), income tax individuals(25%), VAT (18%), property tax (tax rate is determined by local governments) and land tax (from 0.2 to 0.3 $ per 1 m2). Customs duties, depending on the category of goods, are 0%, 5% and 12% of the value of the goods.

Real estate

Today, the Tbilisi real estate market is experiencing a real boom. The construction of a new quarter of the capital, “New Tbilisi,” begins, which will include five zones: residential, commercial, recreational, administrative and diplomatic.

The conditions for purchasing real estate for foreigners have been simplified as much as possible in order to stimulate the influx of foreign capital into the country.

The price of housing in Tbilisi ranges from $900 to $2,000 per 1 m2.

Tbilisi is a wonderful hospitable city that can give everyone the most vivid impressions. The best mode of transportation here is hiking. Only in this way, calmly and slowly, can you feel the color and originality of the city. To travel long distances, choose a taxi: in the person of the taxi driver you will get both a driver and an excellent guide who will advise which wine to buy, where is the best place to dine and from which point the view of the city is the most beautiful.

Almost all signs in Tbilisi are written in Georgian, therefore, in order to feel more comfortable in the city, you can learn the Georgian alphabet or at least make yourself a cheat sheet, and, of course, always remember that in a difficult situation you can ask passers-by and employees for help police.

In small shops and markets it is not possible to pay by bank card, so it is always worth keeping some money in cash in not very large denominations.