The Republic of Georgia is a country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, nestled within the South Caucasus region. It shares borders with the Black Sea to the west, Russia to the north and northeast, Turkey to the southwest, Armenia to the south, and Azerbaijan to the southeast. The country’s diverse terrain spans 69,700 square kilometers and features a striking contrast between mountainous areas and coastal regions. Tbilisi serves as the nation’s capital and largest city, holding a significant portion of Georgia’s population.
Topography
Georgia’s geography is notably defined by the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, which forms the country’s northern border, and the Lesser Caucasus Mountains to the south. The terrain is varied and includes the high peaks of Mount Shkhara and Mount Janga, the volcanic Mount Kazbek, and numerous glaciers. The country’s landscape is also marked by lowlands and numerous rivers, with the Rioni and the Mtkvari being the major watercourses.
Population
Georgia’s population, as of the latest estimates, stands at approximately 3.7 million. The nation has experienced a slight population decrease in recent years, indicative of broader demographic trends affecting the region. The Georgian people, known for their unique ethno-linguistic identity, represent the majority of the populace, with significant communities of Azerbaijanis, Armenians, Russians, and other minority groups.
The ethnic composition of Georgia is predominantly Georgian, accounting for 86.8% of the population. Other ethnicities, such as Azerbaijanis, Armenians, and Russians, also have a considerable presence. Georgian, a Kartvelian language, is the official language and is used by the majority of the citizens. The country recognizes Abkhaz as a regional language, reflecting its ethnically diverse society.