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Why is Georgia called the land of the Golden Fleece?

The myth, Colchis and gold.

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Short answer

Georgia is called the land of the Golden Fleece because of the Greek myth of the Argonauts and the ancient fame of Colchis for its gold. Jason and the Argonauts sailed to Colchis for the fleece. Colchis lay in what is now western Georgia. The nickname is linked to the myth and to Colchis's reputation, and there is no strict etymology.

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Why

  1. In the Greek myth Jason and the Argonauts sail to Colchis for the golden fleece of a magical ram.
  2. Greek and Roman authors described Colchis as bursting with gold.
  3. Archaeological finds of gold are known.

Details

Known gold finds include a golden lion of the 23rd century BCE from the Alazani Valley in Kakheti, a Trialeti gold cup and gold bracelets from Vani. For the country's name itself see why Georgia is called Georgia, and for what the country is known for today see what Georgia is famous for.

Tip

If you want to see ancient gold, look for Trialeti and Vani exhibits in Georgian museums, and check current exhibitions with the museums.

What may differ

The nickname is explained by the myth and Colchis's reputation, and there is no hard proof that the fleece existed.

Common misconception

The Golden Fleece is a real object that was found in Georgia.

What actually happens

The fleece is part of a Greek myth about a magical golden ram. The real finds are other gold objects, for example from Vani and Trialeti.

People also ask

  • Why is Georgia called the land of the Golden Fleece?

Sources

This answer is for reference. Data and estimates get revised over time, so check official websites.

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