The Republic of Georgia is a little-known country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north and east, Azerbaijan and Armenia to the south-east, Turkey to the south-west, and the Black Sea to the west. Influences from all of its neighbors can be felt, but it maintains its own distinct identity.
It is a mountainous country with some of Europe's highest mountain peaks. Despite its small size, Georgia offers a diverse range of landscapes and microclimates, from dry wine-growing valleys in the east to lush Black Sea resorts in the west. Georgia, known as Colchis in Greek mythology, was the location of the famous Golden Fleece sought by Jason and the Argonauts. Georgia's ancient history is not without foundation; modern archaeological evidence suggests that Georgia is the world's oldest wine-making country, with some wine samples dating back to 6,000 years BC. Georgia's cities and countryside are filled with medieval churches, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as a testament to this rich heritage.