Georgian scripts

Georgian scripts are the writing systems used for the Georgian language: Asomtavruli, Nuskhuri, and Mkhedruli. Each has its own letterforms and historical role.

Asomtavruli: The oldest Georgian script, a monumental uppercase-style alphabet used chiefly in inscriptions and manuscripts. It is the earliest of the three scripts and supplies the historical starting point.
Georgian inscriptions of Bolnisi: Fifth-century Georgian inscriptions at Bolnisi Sioni Church, among the oldest securely dated Georgian texts. Their Asomtavruli lettering provides early evidence for Georgian writing.
Georgian manuscript: A handwritten book or document produced in Georgian, often using historical scripts and decorated lettering. Manuscripts preserve the forms and changing uses of Asomtavruli and Nuskhuri.
Greek alphabet: The alphabet used to write Greek, developed from the Phoenician script and influential across the Mediterranean. Greek letters are often proposed as one influence on Georgian letterforms, though the scripts are distinct.
Nuskhuri: A compact Georgian script traditionally used with Asomtavruli in religious manuscripts. Its paired use with Asomtavruli forms the distinctive Khutsuri book script.
Georgian Orthodox Church: The autocephalous Eastern Orthodox church of Georgia, a major institution in Georgian literacy and manuscript culture. Church institutions preserved and used Asomtavruli and Nuskhuri in religious texts.
Georgian epigraphy: The study of Georgian inscriptions carved or written on durable surfaces. Inscriptions document early script forms beyond the manuscript record.
Armenian alphabet: The alphabet created in the early fifth century to write the Armenian language. Its near-contemporary creation invites comparison, but it is a separate writing system.
Mkhedruli: The modern Georgian script, used for everyday writing and lacking uppercase and lowercase letter forms. It is the script now used for most Georgian writing.
Christianization of Iberia: The adoption of Christianity in the eastern Georgian kingdom of Iberia during the fourth century. Christian worship and scripture created a lasting setting for Georgian writing.

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