Georgia Travel: The Cultural Experience
Georgian culture, while influenced by the many occupying nations throughout its history, has maintained a strong sense of national identity and helped preserve a remarkably distinctive culture. The influence of Orthodox Christianity and the Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church are evident when traveling in Georgia. Many works of art have been the expression of religious devotion, such as beautiful icons and well-known monastery and cathedral architecture. Continuing in this religious devotion, nearly 65% are of the Georgian Orthodox faith, 11% Islam, 10% Russian Orthodox, and 8% Armenian Orthodox.
The Georgian language originated nearly 2500 years ago. Literature has been a strong part of Georgia’s tradition. Initially thriving with religious works in monasteries, Georgian literature also included works of theatre (as early as 3rd century BC), lyrical poems, and works based in romanticism. Damiane and Anania attracted an audience for their Georgian paintings, and various goldsmiths made outstanding contributions to the world of art in the 11th century. Georgian music is also strikingly unique in comparison to its neighbors; characterized by polyphony, it uses interesting blends of non-Western harmonies. During your Georgia travel take advantage of the local music in the region. Georgian folk music, as well as modern rock and pop, also hold national popularity.
Since Georgia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, a cultural resurgence has begun, including development of many theatres, opera houses, ballets, and museums, though this development has been somewhat hampered by the political and economic challenges the country faces. As they resolve and rebuild their nation, Georgians are eager to continue making great contributions to the world art scene.
