Tbilisi

Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia. Here's a detailed introduction: **Overview** * **Location:** Situated between the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains, Tbilisi lies on the banks of the Kura River in east-central Georgia, a strategic location in the Transcaucasus. * **Area and Population:** Covers an area of 726 sq km and has a population of approximately 1.2018 million. * **Climate:** Has a temperate continental climate. * **Language:** Primarily Russian and Georgian. **History** * Established as a capital in the 4th century AD, Tbilisi served as the capital for various Georgian dynasties. It was occupied by Persians, Byzantines, Arabs, Mongols, and Turks. In 1795, the Persians set fire to the city. From 1801 to 1864, it was annexed by Russia. In 1921, it became the capital of the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic within the USSR. After Georgia's independence in 1991, Tbilisi once again became the capital. **Economy** * **Industry:** Tbilisi is Georgia's industrial center, focusing on mechanical engineering and metal processing. It's a major producer of electric locomotives and also manufactures aircraft, machine tools, and agricultural machinery. * **Light Industry:** Food processing, including wine, oils, dairy, and tobacco, is well-developed. Silk weaving and shoemaking also thrive. **Culture and Attractions** * **Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi:** A Byzantine-style cathedral with a golden dome, it's a must-visit attraction. * **Narikala Fortress:** Tbilisi's fortress offers panoramic city views. * **Tbilisi Sea:** A high-altitude artificial lake, it's a great place to cool off in the summer. * **Freedom Square:** Located in the heart of the old town, it's a place to experience local life. **Folk Culture** * **Festivals:** "Tbilisoba," held on the last weekend of October, is an agricultural fair and folk culture showcase celebrating the grape and other harvests. * **Cuisine:** Features Khinkali (dumplings) and Churchkhela (walnuts strung on a string and dipped in a grape-must-thickened flour and honey mixture). Georgian wine is also renowned.