Georgian, or ქართული ენა (kartuli ena), is one of the oldest and most unique languages in the world. Spoken by over 4 million people, primarily in the beautiful country of Georgia, it belongs to the Kartvelian language family, a group of languages found nowhere else.

What makes Georgian so fascinating? The Georgian language boasts not just one but three unique scripts, each with its own beauty and historical significance. These scripts—Asomtavruli, Nuskhuri, and Mkhedruli—represent different eras of Georgian history, culture, and identity.

Asomtavruli (ასომთავრული)

Asomtavruli, meaning "capital letters," is the oldest Georgian script, dating back to the 5th century. It features rounded, monumental letters that were originally used for inscriptions on stone and religious manuscripts. Its bold and elegant design reflects its use in formal and sacred contexts.

Though Asomtavruli is no longer used for everyday writing, it remains important in Georgian art and culture, especially in religious texts and architectural decorations.

Nuskhuri (ნუსხური)

Developed around the 9th century, Nuskhuri is a more angular and compact script, created for practicality in writing on parchment. It became the preferred script for Georgian religious manuscripts during the medieval period.

Nuskhuri is still in use today in the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Mkhedruli (მხედრული)

Mkhedruli, meaning "military" or "secular," emerged in the 10th century and gradually replaced the other scripts for everyday use. It is the script most commonly used today for modern Georgian writing.

With its smooth, flowing curves and omission of uppercase and lowercase distinctions, Mkhedruli is both practical and visually striking. It represents the living spirit of the Georgian language, used in everything from books to social media.

A Legacy of Cultural PrideFor starters, its alphabet, Mkhedruli, is a work of art! With 33 elegant letters, it’s one of only 14 unique alphabets worldwide. Each letter has its own distinct sound, making Georgian phonetics rich and melodic.

Georgian is also known for its challenging grammar and complex verb system. But don’t let that scare you! The language is logical and structured, and every step of learning it brings a sense of achievement.

Beyond the language itself, learning Georgian opens doors to a vibrant culture. From polyphonic singing (a UNESCO heritage treasure) to traditional supra feasts filled with heartfelt toasts and delicious food, Georgian is more than just a language—it’s an experience.

Whether you're interested in history, linguistics, or simply love a good challenge, Georgian is a journey worth taking.

Stay tuned for more articles where I’ll share tips, stories, and resources to help you learn Georgian step by step. Together, let’s explore this incredible language and culture!

Discover the Beauty of the Georgian Language

Mkhedruli (მხედრული)