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Georgia possesses one of the most ancient cultures in the world, with early Paleolithic sites dating from approximately 2 million years ago. Numerous archaeological sites speak eloquently of the advanced state of Georgian civilization, including skilled works in bronze, silver and gold. Georgia's importance as a trade region has also meant a wide influx of Persian, Greek Roman and Byzantine traditions into Georgia, which the Georgians skillfully incorporated into their culture while retaining its uniqueness. Christianity became Georgia's official religion in the Fourth Century AD and the Georgian Church became autonomous in the Sixth Century, drawing on its Byzantine history and forming its own centers of learning. This autonomy, as well as exposure to Near Eastern artistic traditions, has resulted in the development of a distinctly Georgian style of medieval art. Today, however, many of Georgia's cultural monuments are badly neglected and in a state of disrepair, thus necessitating urgent action to save them as rapidly as possible. The "Save Georgian Cultural Heritage" program, started in 1996, is conducted by the Georgian Arts and Culture Center in conjunction with a number of other institutions such as governmental institutions, and international conservation agencies to provide diagnostic studies, coordination of conservation and restoration works, and increased cooperation between international and Georgian restorers to improve restoration techniques. |
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The program in progress since 1996 |
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Goals and Objectives: • To preserve Georgian cultural heritage.
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NEWS: |
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| THE PROGRAM COVERS TWO FIELDS: | ||||
| A. PRESERVATION OF MEDIAVAL MONUMENTS | B. SUPPORT TO GEORGIAN MUSEUMS | |||
The priorities of this program include the study of the present conditions of the medieval monuments and frescos and the definition and implementation of appropriate conservation treatment. The main focus has been on microbiological damage and the environmental or other conditions for its cause. Based on intensive research and in collaboration with international consultants, GACC implements the treatment and conservation of the monuments. At the same time we support the inclusion of young Georgian specialists into projects with the view of gaining the experience. This program also works to promote the medieval monuments and murals to both local and international audience. The program aims to support sustainable development in the regions by empowering local communities to assist in the maintenance of the monuments, fundraising and development of cultural tourism. |
The priorities of GACC's effort to support Georgian museums include the promotion of the less known Georgian national treasures in the storage vaults of Georgian museums, in local institutions and privet collections; drawing public attention to the challenges museums face; the development and marketing of commercially viable product lines based on the creative inspirations of Georgian Cultural heritage; and support for the economic sustainability of the museums. |