Guriyat

Guriyat is a historical region located in the mountainous area of southwestern Georgia, encompassing much of what is now the Guria region. Guriyat refers specifically to the pre-Russian annexation period, highlighting the semi-autonomous or independent status enjoyed by the territory and its inhabitants. While the boundaries were generally consistent with the modern Guria region, "Guriyat" often implies a political entity distinct from the later Russian governorate or the current administrative region. Historically, Guriyat was governed by the Princes of Guria, a branch of the House of Gurieli, and often oscillated between periods of independence and vassalage to larger kingdoms or empires. The term is used in historical texts and discussions to differentiate this era of self-governance and unique cultural identity from the periods of Russian and Soviet rule, and now as part of independent Georgia. The use of "Guriyat" also serves to emphasize the region's distinctive history, traditions, and dialect, even when discussing periods within the broader Georgian context.