SOUTH OSSETIA

Russian Yuzhnaya Osetiya, region, north-central Georgia, on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus mountains. The region is populated largely (about two-thirds) by the Ossetes, a Caucasian people (many Ossetes live in the neighbouring republic of Alania [formerly North Ossetia] in Russia as well); most of the remainder are Georgians. The area is deeply intersected by rivers, which are harnessed for hydroelectric power. About 90 percent of the region lies more than 3,300 feet (1,000 m) above sea level, and only 9 percent of its area is cultivated. Grain, fruit, and vines are grown, partly under irrigation. Sheep are raised on the higher slopes, and the considerable forest wealth is exploited. The major city is Tskhinvali.