Historical Encyclopedia
The history of Georgia dates back to ancient times, spanning thousands of years. The region now known as Georgia has a rich history filled with struggles, cultural achievements, and significant historical events. In this article, we will explore the key periods of ancient Georgian history.
The earliest evidence of human activity in present-day Georgia dates back to the Paleolithic era. Archaeological finds, such as the sites of ancient people, tools, and animal remains, indicate that this region was inhabited by humans over a million years ago. In the Dmanisi area, some of the oldest Homo erectus remains have been found outside Africa, making Georgia a key location for the study of human evolution.
During the Neolithic period, around 6000 BC, the first agricultural and pastoral communities developed in Georgia. This period marks the beginning of a settled lifestyle and the formation of early settlements. People began cultivating grains, raising livestock, and producing pottery. Hunting and gathering also played an important role in the economy.
Around 3000 BC, the Kura-Araxes culture emerged in the territory of Georgia. This was an important stage in the region's history, characterized by the development of metallurgy, trade, and cultural exchanges with neighboring areas. The Kura-Araxes culture was widespread in the Caucasus and beyond, leaving a significant legacy in archaeological artifacts, including pottery, tools, and weapons.
An important aspect of the Kura-Araxes culture was the use of bronze, leading to advancements in military affairs and the strengthening of socio-economic structures. During this period, the first fortified settlements appeared, indicating that the population of Georgia faced the necessity of defending against external threats.
By the middle of the first millennium BC, two key ancient states emerged in the territory of Georgia — Colchis and Iberia. Colchis was located on the western coast of Georgia and was known for its connection to Greek mythology, particularly the myth of the Golden Fleece. The Greeks actively traded with Colchis, and this region became an important center for exchanging goods such as gold, copper, and other precious metals.
Iberia, or Kartli, located in eastern Georgia, also played a significant role in regional politics and trade. Its rulers managed to gain control over substantial territories and form alliances with neighboring powers, such as Persia and the Roman Empire. In the 4th century BC, King Pharnavaz I established the first Georgian dynasty and created an alphabet, which was an important step in the development of Georgian statehood and culture.
Over the centuries, Georgia was at the crossroads of various civilizations, which significantly influenced its development. During the Achaemenid Empire, eastern Georgia was under Persian control. However, local kings maintained a certain degree of independence, allowing Georgian principalities to develop and preserve their traditions.
After the campaigns of Alexander the Great, the influence of Hellenistic culture increased in the Caucasus. Greek city-states, such as Phasis (modern Poti), played an important role in cultural exchange and trade. Roman conquests also played a significant role: starting from the 1st century BC, Georgia was closely linked to the Roman Empire. During this period, Roman culture and technology had a considerable impact on local customs, architecture, and administrative structures.
One of the most important stages in ancient Georgian history was the adoption of Christianity. As early as the 1st century AD, the Apostle Andrew the First-Called visited the region, preaching Christianity. In the 4th century, Georgia officially adopted Christianity under King Mirian III, making it one of the first countries in the world to embrace the new faith at the state level.
The adoption of Christianity played a key role in shaping Georgian identity, culture, and statehood. In the subsequent centuries, Georgia became an important center of Christian culture in the Caucasus. Local monasteries and churches became not only spiritual but also cultural centers where literacy, art, and science flourished.
The history of Georgia in ancient times is full of unique events and phenomena that had a profound influence on the development of the region. From prehistoric settlements to the first states, from the influence of great empires to the adoption of Christianity — all of this formed a distinct Georgian identity that remains an important part of the country's cultural heritage to this day. Despite numerous external influences and invasions, Georgia has retained its uniqueness and played a significant role in the history of the Caucasus and the Middle East.