Nino Higher School of Foreign Languages LLC
Senior Teacher
Doctorant
Tbilisi, Georgia
mariamtchinctaharauli.942.tsu@gmail.com
Abstract
The objective of this presentation is to examine the traditional religious monuments, sanctuaries, and shrines of the Ertso-Tianeti region and the transformational processes of the religious life associated with them. As a transitional zone between the highlands and the lowlands, Ertso-Tianeti has historically undergone continuous migratory processes, which have shaped the diversity and syncretic nature of its sacred space. The article will explore the typological characteristics of the Christian and highland sanctuaries existing in the region. Attention will be focused on both historical monuments of the feudal era (e.g., the Bochorma fortress-church, Zhaleti basilica, Archil monastery) and the sacred shrines (nishi) established by highland migrants. The presentation will analyze the contemporary functioning of the sanctuaries and shrines brought from Pshav-Khevsureti and Mtiuleti, such as Iakhsari, Kopala, Lashari Cross, and Lomisa. Based on ethnographic materials collected between 2014 and 2018, the study will highlight the functional transformation of these religious monuments and shrines in the post-socialist period. Issues of religious adaptation will be examined, specifically focusing on how traditional beliefs persist and what changes occur in icon-worship and ritual practices during traditional festivals (e.g., Atengenoba, Lasharoba, Kviriaoba). In conclusion, arguments will be presented demonstrating that the religious monuments, sanctuaries, and shrines of Ertso-Tianeti serve as vital symbols of cultural identity, contributing to the preservation of historical memory in the face of modernization and globalization.