George Balanchine, a Georgian-American ballet choreographer and co-founder of the New York City Ballet, is often called the father of American ballet. He revolutionized the world of ballet with his innovative choreography. Balanchine's 1954 reimagining of The Nutcracker transformed it from a modest 19th-century production into a beloved global Christmas classic. Balanchine's legacy endures, with his innovative works continuing to inspire and captivate ballet audiences around the globe.

At Tbilisi's center, the "Mother of Kartli," also known as the "Mother of Georgia," towers from a hill, showcasing Georgia's hospitality and spirit. With a wine glass, she offers a warm welcome, and with a sword, readiness to protect her land, reflecting the country's love for life and resilience. This iconic statue symbolizes the enduring values of Georgia.

Georgia's iconic cheese-filled bread - warm, golden, and made to share. From the boat-shaped Adjarian crowned with egg and butter to the cheese-loaded Megrelian, every region has its own beloved version. Khachapuri embodies the ritual of gathering, celebration, and hospitality. Listed as part of Georgia’s national Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2019, this bread celebrates Georgia’s communal spirit like no other.

There are more than 500 types of grapes in Georgia, accounting for nearly one-sixth of the world's grape varieties. Nearly 50 of them are still used for making wine.

Georgians have been drinking wine since the Stone Age; archaeological excavations have unearthed clay pots used to ferment wine dating to about 8,000 years ago.

"All children are equal no matter their gender,” wrote Shota Rustaveli in his epic poem “The Knight in the Panther’s Skin.” That was in the 12th century, long before gender equality became the norm.

The Georgian alphabet is one of only 14 unique writing systems in the world today. While many languages borrow alphabets from others, the Georgian script was developed exclusively for the Georgian language. It's not used by any other nation, making it a deeply personal and national treasure.

Pioneering Georgian education, this visionary educator, children's author and journalist founded scientific pedagogy in Georgia. His landmark children's primer, 'Mother Language' (დედა ენა), has taught generations to read and write in Georgian since 1880. Still used in schools today, it remains a testament to his enduring impact on Georgian language education.

Puri is the word for bread in Georgian and also for a type of bread in India. For some lovers of linguistic games, that’s

enough to show how merchants connected the various cultures of the Silk Road.

Georgia first declared independence on May 26, 1918, after the collapse of the Russian Empire, and restored it in 1991. May 26 is now Georgia’s Independence Day, celebrated with parades, flags and family feasts.

Did you know that the legendary Golden Fleece - ოქროს საწმისი, comes from Georgia's ancient region of Colchis? This myth follows Jason and the Argonauts, a group of Greek heroes, on their quest to retrieve the magical fleece from Colchis. The fleece was guarded by a fierce dragon, but Medea, a powerful sorceress and daughter of the Colchian king, helped Jason overcome the trials with her magic. Together, they claimed the Golden Fleece, symbolizing heroism, loyalty, and adventure.

Tone (თონე): a traditional round clay oven where Georgian bread is baked against the hot walls. Despite being a small

country, Georgia boasts up to 50 varieties of bread and mouthwatering fillings. The distinctive dough preparation and baking styles in Georgia impart an authentic flavor and unique taste to the bread.