Pronunciation: [ˌakhɐlkɐlˈaki] (IPA) 
Akhalkalaki is a Georgian town with a complex spelling. Pronounced /ɑːxɑːlkəlɑːki/ in IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled with several unique Georgian letters. The first letter is "ა" (a), followed by "ხ" (kh), "ა" (a) again, "ლ" (l), "ქ" (k), "ა" (a) once more, and "ლ" (l) again. Despite its difficult spelling, Akhalkalaki is a significant town in southern Georgia, home to a diverse multiethnic community.
Akhalkalaki is a noun that refers to a city located in the southern part of Georgia, near the border with Turkey and Armenia. It is the principal town of the Akhalkalaki Municipality and sits at an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters above sea level. The city has historical significance as it was established in the 11th century and has served as a crucial crossroad between various civilizations throughout its existence.
With a population of around 8,000 inhabitants, Akhalkalaki is known for its diverse cultural fabric, representing multiple ethnic groups such as Armenians, Georgians, and Russians. This ethnic diversity adds to the richness of the city's traditions, arts, and cuisine.
The economy of Akhalkalaki predominantly revolves around agriculture, with a focus on livestock farming, particularly sheep and cattle. The region is famous for its high-quality dairy products and meat. Additionally, the city is situated on an important transportation route, making it strategically significant for commerce and trade between Georgia, Turkey, and Armenia.
Akhalkalaki is also home to various historical landmarks, including churches, monasteries, and forts that showcase its rich architectural heritage. Moreover, the city hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Overall, Akhalkalaki is a vibrant city in Georgia that showcases a unique blend of cultural diversity, historical significance, and economic importance.
The word "Akhalkalaki" is derived from the Georgian language. "Akhalkalaki" (ახალქალაქი) is a compound word consisting of two parts:
1. "Akhali" (ახალი) means "new" in Georgian.
2. "Kalaki" (ქალაქი) means "town" or "city" in Georgian.
Therefore, "Akhalkalaki" can be translated as "New Town" or "New City" in Georgian. The name likely refers to the establishment of the town in relatively recent history compared to other ancient Georgian settlements.
