Borjomi = Georgia
You have likely pondered the small yet incredibly diverse nature of Georgia, with each corner boasting distinct characteristics in terms of nature, climate, character, history, scent, and emotion. Here, the most significant contrasts converge: mountains and sea, modernity and antiquity, harshness and gentleness.
Let's embark on a journey to explore each corner:
Kakheti - a region seen by many, characterized by a fighting spirit and entertainment. It has a historical legacy of repelling enemies and safeguarding the country's independence. The Kakhuri table tradition might be connected to the need for celebration and cheer after battles.
When Georgian wine is discussed, Kakheti takes the spotlight. The ancient method of making Kvevri wine, recognized as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, originated here. It is one of the oldest winemaking techniques globally, dating back 8,000 years.
Kakheti, the center of which is influenced by a royal past, exudes mediocrity, peace, and beauty. It was the throne city of the Kingdom of Kakheti and the residence of Erekle II, a symbol of Georgia's independence.
Tusheti - the most inaccessible and untouched, a sacred place of Georgia. The journey to Tusheti is an adventure in itself, with extreme landscapes, invisible mountains, and fields. The road to Tusheti's Piraketa and opposite valleys is equally thrilling, leading to the highest village in Europe at 2345 meters above sea level.
Imagine arriving in a valley, isolated and tranquil, after a day full of adrenaline. Against the backdrop of breathtaking mountains, you savor the delicious Tušur Kotor and, before sunrise, drink chondri tea picked from steep rocks. It's akin to the feelings of climbers at Everest base camp.
Kartli - a repository of ancient history and archaeological monuments. In Shida Kartli, near Gori, lies Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-cut city with a disputed purpose among researchers. Legends abound, suggesting it may have been a city of priests or had a portal connecting different dimensions.
Another legend proposes that slaves built Uplistsikhe; with gold at one end of the shaft, a slave gained freedom after the weapons wore out. The archaeological site of Dmanis in Kvemo Kartli revealed the oldest hominids living outside of Africa, dating back 1.8 million years.
Samtskhe-Javakheti - a symbol of pristine forests and natural waters. Borjom-Kharagauli National Park, one of Europe's largest, is home to rare flora and fauna, some included in Georgia's red list.
Borjomi's sulfur pools and mineral water deposits enrich its water with more than 60 unique minerals, beginning its journey from 8,000 meters below the surface.
Imereti - a symbol of talent and hospitality. Gelati Monastery in Kutaisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the region's ancient history. Kutaisi is the birthplace of many talented Georgians.
Imeruli khachapuri, a symbol of Georgian table, hospitality, and celebrations, is one of the local specialties.
Guria - the most delightful, sweet, and lively. Known for unique Georgian folklore, including the incomparable "Krimanchuli" song, Guria's people are not only singers but also possess fast kilos and a great sense of humor.
Traveling to Guria means enjoying both nature and folk traditions.
Samegrelo - incomparably beautiful and delicious. Nature in Samegrelo is outstanding, featuring majestic Tobavarchkhil lakes, Martvili and Balda Kamkama canyons, and the Kolkheti National Park.
Alexandre Dumas praised the beauty of Samegrelo's women, considering them the most beautiful creatures on Earth. The local cuisine, including Megrul Sulguni, Elarji, Gebzhalia, Kharcho, and Megrul spices, offers a feast of flavors.
Adjara - two dimensions of Georgia. With both beautiful beaches in places like Batumi, Gonio, Tsikhisdziri, Kvariati, and stunning mountainous landscapes in Khulo, Keda, Beshumi, and Gomarduli, Adjara offers a unique blend of sea and mountain beauty.
The region also boasts incredible greenery in protected areas like Kintrish, Ispani, Machakhela Valley, Mtirala National Park, and Batumi Botanical Garden.
Svaneti - the treasury of an inflexible, strong country. Characterized by towering mountains and resilient towers, Svaneti's towers, standing against natural calamities and enemies, symbolize the Svan character. The region served as a treasure trove for hiding valuable cultural items during invasions.
This overview only scratches the surface of Georgia's myriad attractions. We take pride in "Borjomi," representing Georgia internationally and serving as a symbol of our country for the world.