Archaeologists uncover evidence of a lost civilisation hidden in Georgia’s highlands

For a long time, the mountains of the southern part of Georgia were viewed as marginal to the bigger picture of human civilization within the South Caucasus. Extremely harsh climates, rough terrain, and a lack of prior research made this region Javakheti Plateau largely overlooked. The perception of the area has rapidly changed. Archaeologists in the region have discovered evidence that proves an ancient and sophisticated existence of humans that endured over hundreds of years.

In the middle of this change is the Samtskhe-Javakheti Project, an ambitious research project that's been in progress since 2017. The results, released in 2017 by Cambridge University Press, reveal more than 168 sites of archeological significance located throughout the plateau. They span an amazing chronology that spans beginning in to the Early Bronze Age through to the middle ages, indicating that the hills were not isolated, and had a significant role to play in local history.

Mapping an Ancient Network

Previous archaeological excavations conducted in Javakheti was limited in size and extent, providing tiny glimpses of its history. This project has changed through the integration of modern technologies including satellite imagery, GPS mapping and systematic surveying of the ground. This has allowed scientists to discover patterns that were otherwise unnoticed.


The result is an interconnected and dense system of fortifications, settlements as well as burial grounds. They aren't randomly scattered they are arranged in groups, usually strategically placed on high landscapes. This suggests both security considerations and also the significance of having being visible across the terrain.

The appearance of huge stone structures constructed from blockwork that is classified as Cyclopean is an additional level of fascination. The constructions, impressive in size and simple are a sign of a large-scale effort from the collective. It is interesting to note that many of the sites seem to be used in a limited manner rather than constantly, leading to the seasonal or mobile pattern of living, perhaps connected to pastoral pursuits.

Layers of Life at Baraleti Natsargora

A single of the more fascinating archaeological sites discovered so yet can be Baraleti Natsargora, a mound situated in the middle of the plateau. Excavating here has revealed the most detailed chronology of the human presence. Archaeologists have found multiple layers of habitation, each one identified by the traces of burned wall, defensive and domestic buildings.

The location's name, commonly described as "hill of ashes," is a reference to the constant evidence of burning found in the layers. The question of whether these burn marks indicate destruction, ritual activities or repeated cycles of building is still a subject for ongoing investigation. However, what is certain it is that the area was continuously occupied throughout many years, with evidence dating back to 3500-500 BC.

The most remarkable discovery in Baraleti is the bronze solar disc. It is decorated with geometric designs and perforations, this item could have come from the burial site nearby. Similar artifacts discovered in the southern part of Georgia tend to be connected to female burials which could have the significance of ritual or symbolic meaning.

Meghreki Fortress and the Story of Continuity

Further to the east, excavations of Meghreki Fortress has revealed another aspect of the life that took place within this region of the Javakheti highlands. Contrary to sites with the use of just a few times, Meghreki presents a long and constant period of occupation that spans through beginning in the Early Bronze Age through the Iron Age and into medieval time.

The remains of the structural structure at the fortress comprise wall perimeters, storage spaces as well as domestic structures. The features show repeated cycles of building, adaption and reuse. They reflect an evolving community the years while remaining connected to the past.

Notable are two home constructions that had clay installation that were likely ovens or elevated platforms. On top of these were decorated plates with geometric patterns incised. The presence of white, red and dark blue hues indicate the level of expression which is uncommon in this region. Similar finds elsewhere suggest that these objects could have been associated with areas that were of particular cultural or social significant.

Rethinking Life in the Highlands

In all, the new discoveries within the Javakheti Plateau challenge long-standing assumptions regarding the existence of high-altitude areas. In contrast to being remote or arid this region seems to have had a bustling and adaptable civilization.

Evidence suggests the existence of a lifestyle which was characterized by reuse, movement and adaptability. Fortified locations could have served many reasons, from protection to habitation during the seasons. Being a constant presence at key places suggests a profound familiarity of the area as well as its natural resources. However there are evidence of relationships with other communities outside the mountains, connecting Javakheti to larger networks across and across the South Caucasus.

Looking Ahead

The efforts that is being carried out by the Samtskhe-Javakheti Project is far from completed. The future research focus will be on dating radiocarbons along with environmental analyses and the extensive study of ceramics and symbols in artifacts. This research will help to clarify the time-line of occupation and gain a better understanding of the culture of those who lived in the area.

The evidence is continuing to surface and the Javakheti highlands are now being re-defined not only as a distant frontier, but instead as an integral element of human civilization. The disappeared civilisation that is which is coming to light provides an important reminder that the least-known landscapes could be a source of stories of incredible richness and profundity.