There are also fine clays for ceramics, and there is some coal for fuel. The chief manufacturing centers are Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi. The chemical industry produces mineral fertilizers, synthetic fibers, and medicines. Georgia is also famous for its production of commercially sold wines, and it cures tobacco and tea and produces canned goods. Cotton, wool, and silk fabrics are also manufactured.
Dancers perform a traditional Georgian dance.
The origins of human society in Georgia can be traced to prehistoric times. The Caucasus was regarded by ancient peoples as the home of metallurgy. By 65 BC the region was part of the Roman Empire. Georgia was converted to Christianity in AD 337, and for the next three centuries it was involved in conflicts between the Byzantine and Persian empires. During the centuries of close association with the Byzantine Empire, the church grew in strength until it became independent as the Georgian Orthodox church.