Georgia – The Country Whose Alphabet Is on the UNESCO List

Did you know that Georgia is one of the very few countries in the world with its own unique alphabet, officially recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity? The Georgian writing system is not just a way to communicate — it is a living symbol of our nation’s identity, history, and soul. The alphabet consists of 33 beautiful letters, each with its own elegant shape and sound. What makes it truly special is that it is completely original and not directly related to Latin, Cyrillic, or any other writing system. For visitors, Georgian letters often look artistic and mysterious, almost like a secret code waiting to be discovered. You will see them everywhere — on ancient church walls, old manuscripts, street signs, restaurant menus, and modern art.

 

The Georgian alphabet has evolved through three historical forms: Asomtavruli, Nuskhuri, and Mkhedruli. The oldest inscriptions date back to the 5th century, showing how deeply rooted literacy and culture are in this land. Today, Mkhedruli is used in everyday life, while the older forms can still be admired in churches and historical monuments. In 2016, UNESCO recognized the living culture of the three Georgian alphabets, highlighting their importance not only for Georgia but for world heritage. When you travel with Georgian Holidays, we love sharing these stories with you — because understanding our alphabet means understanding Georgia itself: ancient yet modern, small yet incredibly rich in culture. Come and discover a country where even the letters tell a story.