A Brief History of Tbilisi
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, was founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali. According to legend, the king discovered hot sulfur springs in the area while hunting, and he decided to build a city there. The name “Tbilisi” comes from the Georgian word “tbili”, meaning “warm,” referring to these natural hot springs.
Over the centuries, Tbilisi became an important trade and cultural center due to its strategic location on the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It was ruled by different empires, including the Persians, Arabs, Mongols, and later the Russian Empire, each leaving their mark on the city’s diverse architecture and culture.
Despite many invasions and destructions, Tbilisi remained a vibrant hub of commerce, religion, and art. In the 19th century, it grew rapidly under Russian rule and became one of the most significant cities in the Caucasus.
Today, Tbilisi is a modern, cosmopolitan city that still preserves its rich history, with its ancient churches, narrow old streets, and famous sulfur baths attracting visitors from around the world
