Medieval Frescoes at David Gareji Complex Vandalized

A number of unique Medieval frescoes at the David Gareji complex, one of Georgia’s major cultural heritage sites, have been vandalized. It is suspect that tourists were to blame.

The unknown perpetrators scribbled their names over several paintings dating back to the 9th and 11th centuries within the main temple and refectory of the rock-hewn complex.

Discovered by a guide working at the site, the damage has already been studied by experts, who said the damage was repairable as it only affected the outer surface of the frescoes.

Illustrating Georgia’s 13th century King Demetrius II and noblemen from the Kakheti province, the murals are among frescoes that have unfortunately been subject of vandalism for years. The National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation of Georgia says measures for protecting the works at the 6th century complex are difficult to implement due to its remote location and natural phenomena at the site.

There are no informational banners warning tourists visiting David Gareji about vandalism being a punishable offence by law. In addition, no surveillance cameras have been installed at the monument. The cultural heritage agency said adequate protection of the site would be ensured by a large-scale rehabilitation project involving international donors.

A prospect for locating funding and international involvement for preserving David Gareji emerged earlier this year. The site was included on a list of Europe’s seven most endangered monuments of 2018 by the Europa Nostra cultural heritage organization.

By Shawn Wayne

Photo by Zviad Ananiashvili