GRAVE GOODS FROM THE MEDIEVAL CEMETERY OF DMANISI - PENDANT CROSSES

Abstract

This article focuses on the examination of burial artifacts, particularly the pendant crosses unearthed from the ancient cemetery of Dmanisi, a significant urban center in medieval Georgia. We aim to determine the chronological and functional determination of the material itself, as well as the graves in which they were discovered, and to present the findings of archaeological and art-historical research.

The fortification of Dmanisi as a city commenced in the 9th century, evolving into a vital military, economic, and cultural hub by the 12th-13th centuries, largely due to concerted efforts by the Georgian royal government. Like other cities in the Transcaucasian region, Dmanisi had a diverse, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious populace, influenced by migratory patterns spurred by trade and economic relations.

Thus, the archaeological evidence gathered from the medieval settlement of Dmanisi stands as a valuable resource, offering insights into the social, ethnic, and religious makeup of medieval Georgian cities and their inhabitants' way of life.

The pendant crosses uncovered in the medieval tombs of Dmanisi, featured in our article, date back to the Middle Ages (11th-13th centuries). Like other burial materials (jewelry), these crosses predominantly belonged to children, a common practice of the era. Similar trends are observable in other Christian burial sites both within Georgia and across the broader Christian world.

These pendant crosses, along with other related burial artifacts, as well as burial structures and above-ground memorial monuments, provide us with crucial information about the city's inhabitants, shedding light on their religious beliefs, burial customs, and way of life, as well as the remnants of ancient, pre-Christian customs.

Keywords: Dmanisi; Middle Ages; archaeology; tomb; tombstone; burial material; pendant cross;