Objects and Artifacts discovered during Expedition Exhibited at Lagodekhi Museum

In 1990 a youth charity association “Hereti” was established by the initiative of Temur Samkharadze. This organization addressed Lagodekhi population by a letter and placed emphasis on the preservation of cultural heritage, in particular Mskhalgori Saint Giorgi Church. After a year the head of the organization died in Abkhazeti war.

25 years later, National Agency for Cultural heritage Preservation and Caucasus International University by the support of Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs of Georgia and Lagodekhi Municipality restored this project. The project has been implemented by Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly Georgian National Committee. Population of the village Mskhalgori and the Samkharadzes have played a crucial role.

From 1 August to 8 September, volunteers from CIU and other higher educational institutions participated in archeological expeditions. Two unique, multifunctional Kvevris - Pitosia, have been found during excavations. In addition, 4 Maranis and unique ceramic objects of various kinds have been discovered. These serves as a proof that there existed a well developed monastery winemaking in 9^th-13^th centuries.

On 25 November there was opened an exhibition of objects and artifacts discovered during Mskhalgori expedition. The working group plans to establish a permanent archeological centre in Mskhalgori, which will attract not only Georgian but international students as well. They will conduct excavations in this experimental base. 

As stated by Professor Aleksandre Rusetski, Head of CIU Innovations and Strategic Development Department, the opening of the exhibition is related with Saint George’s Day. 25 years ago, by the initiative of Temur Samkharadze, the excavations started in Mskhalgori Saint George’s Church. Lagodekhi region has many unique monuments. It is planned to continue excavations as more wide scale discoveries can be made.