The imposing, walled monastery of Lamaria, situated on a hill above Ushguli (Upper Svaneti, Georgia, Caucasus), is thought to have served as both a religious and secular centre, comprising a defensive tower, a small church dating from the 9th or 10th century, and ancillary buildings. Among the pre-Christian Svans, Lamaria was a goddess of motherhood and fertility, but today she is (also) identified with Mary – an example of syncretism among the Svans.
(May 2026)
(Foto: © Rüdiger Benninghaus)
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A richly carved chair for the head of a family from Ushguli in Upper Svaneti (Georgia). The chair has, however, been newly carved based on an old model and is on display in a private house museum.
Wood carving is one of the Svan people’s outstanding crafts.
(May 2026)
(Foto: © Rüdiger Benninghaus)
#Holzschnitzerei, #wood_carvings, #Ältestenstuhl, #chair, #Handwerke, #handicrafts, #Svans, #Ushguli, #Ober_Swanetien, #Upper_Svaneti, #Georgien, #Georgia, #Kaukasus, #Caucasia