Georgia’s Language: An Ancient Script on a Modern Stage

The Georgian language stands among the world’s oldest living tongues, bearing a cultural and historical weight matched by few. Its distinctive alphabet — one of only 14 in existence globally — is celebrated for its graceful, flowing form and its deep symbolic significance to the Georgian people.

According to tradition, the alphabet was devised in the 3rd century BC under the reign of King Parnavaz. While this origin remains rooted in legend, the earliest verified example appears in the early 5th century, preserved in an inscription discovered in Bethlehem, Palestine. Within Georgia, the oldest known text is carved above the entrance to Bolnisi Sioni, dating to the late 5th century.

Three Scripts Defining a Nation

Across centuries, Georgian writing has developed through three distinct scripts:

• Asomtavruli
  
• Nuskhuri
  
• Mkhedruli (modern form)
  

The current Mkhedruli alphabet comprises 33 letters — 5 vowels and 28 consonants — each representing a unique sound. Remarkably, the Georgian script makes no distinction between uppercase and lowercase, underscoring its singular place among global writing systems.

Enduring Relevance in a Global Era

The preservation of such an ancient linguistic tradition alongside modern cultural achievements is a defining feature of Georgia’s national identity. This year, that identity will be on display before a worldwide audience as Tbilisi hosts the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025. Following Georgia’s record-breaking fourth victory in the competition, the event will bring together voices from across Europe, harmonizing the nation’s proud historical heritage with the creativity of its youth.

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