Archeologists have discovered the remains of an ancient settlement that dates back to the 12-13th centuries in the village of Itkhvisi in western Chiatura Municipality.
Zura Bragvadze, the head of the archaeological research group, told Netgazeti that the settlement, which covers an area of 10-15 hectares, may be one of the largest settlements after the western city of Kutaisi in western Georgia.
The settlement was probably destroyed by an earthquake, as no traces of enemy invasions have been identified by scientists. Archeological excavations started two years ago on the site. During this period archeologists have found a wine cellar with 10 clay wine jars (Qvevri), ceramic pottery artefacts, iron and bronze weapons”, said Bragvadze.
Bragvadze also mentioned that the archeological monument consists of two parts, out of which one is built of large stones. The other part of the settlement is the wine cellar, which dates back to the 12-13th centuries.
Studies are underway to determine exactly what type of settlement was in the area in the 12-13th centuries.