Georgian media have reported a potential risk of rock collapse in the ancient rock-hewn town of Uplistsikhe. The National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation has refuted the reports.
Concerns have emerged over a possible rock collapse in “Tamar’s Hall” at the Uplistsikhe historical complex. Photographs and information regarding the monument’s condition were circulated by tour guide Nana Zardiashvili. According to her, there is an imminent danger of rockfall that could pose a threat to visitors at the historical site.
“Tamar’s Hall” is among the most notable structures in Uplistsikhe. The rock-cut, two-column hall is particularly renowned for its coffered ceiling, damage to which has reportedly sparked concern.
Journalists from the TV Pirveli channel attempted to investigate the situation on site; however, the facility’s administration directed them to the National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation. The site director stated that research has been underway for several years and that every staff member has a designated role. He claimed he “knew for certain” that the journalists had arrived with an intent to provoke: “Come in, film, and if something poses a threat to the monument, I will give you an answer then.”
The National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation of Georgia issued an official statement addressing the situation at Uplistsikhe. The agency asserted that reports by certain individuals and media outlets do not correspond to reality and are misleading the public.
“As a result of the reinforcement and urgent conservation measures carried out to date, specialists have identified no circumstances that pose an immediate threat to visitors,” the statement read.
The agency emphasized that Uplistsikhe is a unique rock-hewn monument situated in complex environmental conditions. Protecting it, the agency noted, requires continuous research, observation, and timely intervention. For this reason, the condition of the monument has been subject to ongoing study and monitoring for many years.
In 2019, research also began into the local sandstone and the impact of climatic factors on the stone. With the participation of specialists, scanning of the southwestern rock massif was conducted, damaged sections were identified, and reinforcement and rock-anchoring operations were carried out.
According to the agency, structural assessments of the monument, alongside preventive and conservation measures, will continue in the future.
“An objective assessment of matters related to the preservation of cultural heritage monuments must be grounded in expert findings and verifiable facts, rather than unsubstantiated claims,” the agency stressed.
