Grav is a flat-file content management system that eliminates the need for a traditional database by storing site content and configuration in human-readable Markdown and YAML files. Built as a modular PHP web framework, it uses a hierarchical page routing system where the physical directory structure directly determines the site's URL paths.
The platform is distinguished by its event-driven plugin architecture and a command-line interface that prioritizes system administration, deployment, and maintenance tasks. It utilizes a blueprint-driven system to generate administrative forms from structured data schemas, allowing for complex content management without requiring custom code. A secure, sandboxed templating engine handles the rendering of content into HTML, supporting template inheritance and custom filters.
The system provides a comprehensive suite of capabilities, including advanced media processing, multi-language support, and granular access control. It features robust automation tools for scheduling background tasks, managing site backups, and synchronizing content via version control. Developers can extend the core functionality through a modular plugin system, which allows for deep integration with external services and custom logic injection throughout the application lifecycle.
The project is designed for flexible deployment, supporting containerized environments and standard web server configurations. It includes extensive documentation and CLI tools to facilitate local development, package management, and automated system updates.
