SOME SAMPLES OF THE TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE OF THE HISTORICAL BASIANI REGION

Abstract

The historical Basiani region is rich in the remains of cultural heritage - there are monuments of pre-christian megalithic culture, as well as medieval fortresses, baths, turbes and various types of religious buildings. The main topic of the research of the present article is the temple architecture of the Basiani region. It should be briefly noted that the church construction in the region is represented as both architectural objects and rock-cut complexes, although their parallel research is impossible, given their different specificities. Thus, the present article includes the research of three architectural monuments of the Bassian region - their comparative analysis, the outlining of artistic-stylistic features and architectural features, the analysis of the historical context and directly, the dating of the buildings.

It should be noted that all the monuments of temple architecture, which we have discussed, are almost completely destroyed and are characterized by partial preservation, which greatly complicates the research process - therefore, the possibility of making solid scientific conclusions. Nevertheless, within the framework of the article, it became possible to group the collected material, distinguish stylistic features, determine denominational affiliation and date the monuments.

From several tens of buildings studied during the field-expedition works, it was possible to distinguish only three church architectural monuments, whose planning composition and architectural characteristics are more or less legible. All the monuments we have selected are examples of domed architecture and the time range of their construction is VII-XI centuries. Some of the remains are so damaged that it is not even possible to distinguish their specific typology, although it is still possible to draw certain conclusions based on the existing fragments, small remains and general proportional analysis.

         Key words: Art History; Archaeology; History; Architecture; Iconic architecture; Bassian region;