article Niko Marr and Tao-Klarjeti: Insights into the Region and Its Churches and Monasteries

Abstract

The paper examines the long history of Georgian-Turkish relations, as well as the material and cultural heritage of Tao-Klarjeti and southern Georgia. It emphasizes Niko Marr’s significant contributions to the study of the most important monuments associated with the 10^th-century hagiographic works. His journey to Shavsheti and Klarjeti in the summer of 1904 is of particular importance. The researcher aimed to thoroughly examine the activities of Grigol Khandzteli and his disciples, describe the locations of the local churches and monasteries, as well as other Georgian monastic sites and, most importantly, to trace the Khandzta and Shatberdi monasteries.

Niko Marr's opinion is noteworthy, as he suggested that the unnamed monastery was likely situated around Porta, specifically in the southern area, close to Lower Porta and the Porta Gardens. On the other hand, Khandzta, which was relatively older, was presumed to be in the northern part of the village of Porta and was known then as the "Nuka Cathedral". Most researchers did not agree with Niko Marr's opinion. Nonetheless, the ideas presented by Marr were widely recognized, and they opened new avenues for further research and exploration.

The participants of the 2014 expedition from Georgian Technical University claim that Grigol and Gabriel did not build the Khandzta Monastery near the Porta Gardens; rather, it was built near Upper Porta, approximately 4 kilometers away from Lower Porta.

The study pays particular attention to the diaries of Niko Marr, which continue to hold value to this day. It is worth noting that Niko Marr acquired the text of Grigol Khandzteli in the fall of 1902 in Jerusalem, published it, and translated it into Russian with great skill. He also included the Diary of the Journey to Shavsheti and Klarjeti («Дневник поездки в Шавшию и Кларджию») in the publication.

In his research, Niko Marr emphasizes that Merchule’s writings are rare in hagiographic literature for their realism. As a national writer, Giorgi Merchule was introduced to us by Niko Marr, who presented this remarkable author and thinker.

The Diaries of the Shavshet-Klarjeti Trip is an excellent literary document filled with a patriotic spirit. With great affection, the researcher described the exemplary centers of ancient culture that once thrived and are now in ruins.

Niko Marr was a unique phenomenon in the history of world science. He was an excellent philologist, linguist, dialectologist, expert in source studies, literary critic, folklorist, archaeologist, and researcher of philosophical issues.

Niko Marr’s contributions to Oriental Studies, particularly in the historical examination of the relationship between Georgian and Eastern cultures, is profound; his impact is permanent and, objectively speaking, highly respected.