Nestled at the intersection of Europe and Asia, Georgia is a country defined by the scale of its history and the dramatic diversity of its landscapes. It’s where the Caucasus Mountains meet subtropical Black Sea coastlines, and where ancient stone fortresses stand alongside vibrant modern architecture.
Today, in partnership with the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia and the Innovation and Technology Agency, Google Street View for Georgia is live on Google Maps and Google Earth.
Documenting 13,000 kilometers of living heritage
Capturing the unique geography of Georgia required navigating complex mountain passes, modern coastal hubs and historic urban centers. Working closely with local authorities, we brought some of Georgia’s most unique cultural and geographic landmarks to Google Maps, including:
- The Cradle of Wine: Georgia is home to an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition. The new imagery showcases Telavi, the historic heart of the Kakheti region, where vineyards still utilize traditional clay jars called qvevri, which are buried underground to ferment wine.
- The guarded peaks of the Caucasus (Mestia and Svaneti): Travel virtually into the Svaneti region, one of Europe’s highest inhabited areas. Here, the unique medieval stone towers of Ushguli stand against a dramatic backdrop of jagged, snow-capped peaks. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries, these towers are a testament to the resilient mountaineer culture that preserved its identity for centuries in near isolation.
- The spiritual architecture of Mtskheta: View the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mtskheta, the ancient capital and spiritual heart of Georgia. Situated at the scenic confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, it’s home to historic medieval churches, including Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Samtavro Church and Monastery.
- Layers of urban evolution (Tbilisi and Kutaisi): Walk the winding cobblestone streets of Old Tbilisi to see its colorful wooden balconies, natural sulfur baths and the ancient Narikala Fortress. Cross the Bridge of Peace which connects the historic Old Town to the modern Rike Park. Explore Kutaisi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, which served as a cultural bridge between the Byzantine Empire and the Silk Road; today, it’s Georgia’s technology hub.
- The coastal subtropics of Batumi: Consider the rugged mountain terrain in contrast with the striking, hyper-modern and heritage architecture, lush botanical gardens and palm-lined boulevards along the Black Sea coast in Adjara.
- A scenic road trip through the highlands: Hit the winding roads that carve through Georgia’s dramatic mountains, navigate the breathtaking drive over Goderdzi Pass or Jvari Pass and enjoy the panoramic views from more than 2,000 meters above sea level. As you trace these high-altitude ancient routes, stop over to explore the Ananuri Fortress and the Khertvisi Fortress, which showcase a stunning blend of design across centuries.
