Cultural Heritage Research Organization, NNLE “Time and Heritage”
Chairperson
Cultural Studies, Art History
Doctor of Art History
Tbilisi, Georgia
deagunia@yahoo.com
Abstract
The heart of the Javakheti region extends around Lake Paravani, one of the most beautiful areas of Georgia and, at the same time, a landscape imbued with a distinctive spiritual atmosphere. The perception of the area as a sacred space is further reinforced by the historical tradition that Saint Nino began her mission of preaching Christianity in Georgia from this region.
The Paravani Lake basin is surrounded by several historic villages: Paravani, Poka, Vladimirovka (Makharoni), Aspara, and Khulgumo (Tambovka). Since prehistoric times, this territory has been rich in multilayered remains of cultural heritage. In recent years, archaeological expeditions have resumed in the area under the direction of Nino Pataridze. These investigations included the study of a kurgan burial at Khulgumo, while test trenches confirmed the presence of medieval settlement remains. Reconnaissance expeditions were also conducted in the area of historic Makharoni, where aerial surveys and test excavations revealed remains of medieval settlements and a cyclopean fortress.
The aim of the present paper is to demonstrate the historical significance of the newly discovered artefacts and medieval monuments of the Paravani Lake basin, assess their current condition, and identify prospects for their future development. The research adopts a comprehensive approach based on historical sources, scholarly literature, field observations, and visual analysis of the monuments.
The villages mentioned above preserve hall churches dating from the tenth to the fourteenth centuries and displaying characteristics of the Javakhetian architectural school. Their architectural details are distinguished by ornamental motifs, decorated window surrounds, and carved lintel stones. Of particular scholarly interest are the remains of a relatively large caravanserai preserved in the village of Paravani.
For centuries, Javakheti played an important role within an integrated system of economic, commercial, and cultural relations. The caravanserais of Paravani, Akhalkalaki, and Zurtaketi provide valuable evidence of the economic life of the medieval period. Their conservation and rehabilitation are therefore especially urgent. Monuments of such cultural significance and scale should not be allowed to remain in a severely deteriorated condition.
Fortunately, the village of Poka provides a clear example of how the rehabilitation of an important cultural monument can contribute to the revitalization and development of a local community. By 2001, the eleventh-century cathedral there was in extremely poor condition, but its complete restoration, carried out under the supervision of Tamar Nemsadze, was successfully accomplished. Today, through the sustained efforts of the nuns, Poka Convent has become an important center attracting both pilgrims and tourists.
Unfortunately, similar developments have not taken place in the other villages listed above. Without the archaeological investigations periodically conducted around Lake Paravani, even the local population would have limited opportunities to fully appreciate the cultural and historical significance of the surrounding area.
Regional development is one of the state’s priority strategies, and within this process the identification, protection, and rehabilitation of cultural heritage monuments are of fundamental importance. Such a comprehensive approach would significantly enhance the tourism and economic potential of the Javakheti region and contribute to the systematic and sustainable long-term development of its local villages.