The capital of Georgia is Tbilisi, a city that once flourished as a Silk Road trade center connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe. People arrived in the city from various countries with goods to sell, enabling prosperity. The cultures introduced by foreign forces who attacked the city also enabled prosperity. The city motto is "guests are messengers from God." Annexed to the Soviet Union in 1922, Georgia declared independence in 1991. Tbilisians have an indomitable and hospitable spirit.