History of Georgia
Colchis- mitopoethical and historical perception
colchis as part of greek and persian world
foundation of kindom of iberia
iberian society according to strabo
mithridatic wars and iberia
pompey’s expedition in caucasus
iberian-roman relationship
coversion of Kartli into christianity
Colchis- mitopoethical and historical perception
concept of clochis is both mythical and historical, with deep roots in acient greek mythology and histroical accounts of region
Mythopoetical perception:
colchis is most famously known in greek myths as land of Golden Fleece, destination of Jason and the Argonaunts.
fleece was guarded by King Aeëtes of Colchis, and Jason, with the help of the sorceress Medea stole it.
n Greek mythopoetics, Colchis was seen as a distant and exotic land, rich in natural resources like gold
Historical perception:
significant trade center in the ancient world. Archaeological findings show that Colchis had a highly developed culture and played a key role in regional trade networks.
The Greeks eventually colonized the Black Sea region, including Colchis, around the 6th century BCE. The Greek city-states established trade relations with the local population, blending Greek and Colchian cultures.
Colchis was also strategically important, acting as a cultural and political bridge between the Greek world and the Caucasus.
It was involved in the power struggles between larger empires such as Persia, and later Rome, and functioned as an important buffer region.
euxeinos pontos vs axenios pontus
reek names for the Black Sea, but they carry different connotations, reflecting the evolving Greek perception of the sea and its surrounding regions.
1. Axenios Pontos (Ἄξενος Πόντος) – “Inhospitable Sea”
The term Axenios means “inhospitable” or “unwelcoming.” This was the earlier name given by the ancient Greeks to the Black Sea.
ts unpredictable weather, violent storms, and difficult navigation contributed to this negative reputation.
The coastline was inhabited by various indigenous peoples whom the Greeks saw as “barbaric” or hostile
2. Euxeinos Pontos (Εὔξεινος Πόντος) – “Hospitable Sea”
Over time, the Greeks renamed the sea Euxeinos Pontos, meaning the “Hospitable Sea.” This change in name reflects a shift in perception from negative to positive.
As Greek colonization spread along the Black Sea coast from the 7th century BCE onward, Greek settlements were established in places like Byzantium (modern Istanbul), Sinope, Odessa, and Phasis (Colchis).
Herodotus, II, 104
• Colchians’ Egyptian Origins: Herodotus suggests that the Colchians are descendants of Egyptians, based on personal observation and inquiry. He notes that the Colchians have better memory of their Egyptian heritage than the Egyptians do of them.
Colchis as part of greek and persian world
6th century B.C., a new player, in the form of the Persian empire, appeared in the Caucasus.
Colchis fell under Persian influence during the reign of King Darius I (522–486 BCE) as part of the Achaemenid Empire’s territorial expansion.
Darius reorganized the empire into 20 satrapies, which served as the primary administrative divisions. Each satrapy was governed by a satrap (governor) appointed by the king.
Colchis was part of the 19th satrapy of the Persian Empire. However, unlike most satrapies, Colchis was not directly governed by Persian administrators.
Colchis was required to pay tribute but retained a degree of autonomy in its internal affairs.
Persian control over Colchis was likely indirect. The mountainous and forested terrain of the region made direct governance difficult
Persian influence brought about increased interaction between Colchis and other parts of the Achaemenid Empire, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing Colchis’s role in the regional trade network.
in 4th 5th century Herodotus noted Colchis and its neighbors as part of the Persian sphere of influence but not directly under Persian rule.
The archaeological findings, such as Achaemenid silver vessels in Colchis, indicate trade and cultural exchanges, showcasing the economic interdependence between the Persians and local populations.
During the Greco-Persian Wars (480 B.C.), Colchis and other Caucasian peoples joined Xerxes’ army, indicating their obligation to participate in military operations due to Persian influence.
Xenophon's (greek solider) account is important because he directly says that the people of the South Caucasus and its neighboring regions did not obey the Achaemenid king. Moreover, the Macrones knew that the Greek army was the enemy of the Persians, although they still helped them. In another section, Xenophon again lists those tribes that do not declare obedience to the Persian king.
Foundation of Iberia
In the second half of the 4th century, global changes took place in the ancient world. Alexander the Great launched a great campaign against Achaemenid Persia, which resulted in the destruction of Persia and the disintegration of its empire.
After Alexander's death, a long series of conflicts between his comrades and friends began for his succession. This period, which lasted more than 40 years, is known as the Diadochos Wars.
A new historical epoch began called the Hellenistic era, and new states and new culture arose. The world transitioned to a different level of development.
The Georgian historical traditions dates the creation of The kingdom of Iberia/ Kartli to this era of geopolitical changes.
Before the creation of the Kingdom of Kartli, we had only Greco-Roman written sources and archeological excavation data about Georgia in the ancient period
Greco-Roman sources do not write anything about the story of the foundation of the Kingdom of Kartli.
Insert: Why is the Greco-Roman world not interested in the Caucasus?
In the Hellenistic era, B.C. In the III-II centuries, Greece lost its importance as a political-cultural center. Consequently, the Greek polis had less political and cultural interests in the Black Sea basin and the Caucasus.
According to "Mokjemai Kartlisai", Alexander conquered Kartli and left the king's son Azo as its ruler. This source mentions Azos as the first king of Kartli, who evicted the inhabitants of his kingdom from Arian-Kartli.
Archaeological findings indicate battles in Eastern Georgia during Azo’s time, suggesting a conflict between Azo (possibly a foreigner) and Farnavaz (a local elite).
• Farnavaz emerged victorious over Azo and initiated significant reforms, dividing Kartli into administrative units and establishing a system of tax collection. He is seen as the foundation of the kingdom due to his local origins and support.
The kingdom’s division into regions considered local traditions and geographical conditions, highlighting Farnavaz’s role as a unifier.
Iberian society according to Strabo
After the collapse of Achaemenid Persia and the death of Alexander the Great, Pharnavaz took advantage of the power vacuum in the region and united an important part of the Georgian territory, including the modern Southern Western parts of Georgia.
Though on the edge of the Hellenistic sphere, it was part of that cultural world, unlike the more isolated Colchis in the west.
Strengthened trade and culture in Dioscurias (modern Sukhum), described as ethnically and culturally diverse.
we have 4 clans in kartli. 1. Royal Clan: Provided not just kings but also judges and military leaders. 2. Priestly Clan: Oversaw religious functions and administered the law. 3. Warrior and Farmer Clan: Consisted of soldiers and agricultural workers, reflecting a division between military and farming roles. 4. Royal Slaves: Handled agricultural and pastoral labor, showing a reliance on slave labor in the kingdom.
Strabo mentioned that the judicial and military power was separate from the king, handled by another family member. However, this conflicts with local sources like the “Life of Kartli,” which suggests the king directly led military operations.
Diplomatic Role: Strabo suggested that priests handled diplomacy and foreign relations, another claim disputed by other historical accounts, which emphasize the king’s involvement in state matters.
Mountain People:
• Lived in a warlike manner, akin to nomadic tribes like the Scythians and Sarmatians.
Only nobles in the lowlands were buried with weapons, reflecting a hierarchical society.
• Likely had close ties with these nomadic peoples and shared a warrior culture.
Lowland People:
• More peaceful, engaged in agriculture, and influenced by Iranian (Median) cultural traditions.
In contrast, in the mountains, even common people were buried with weapons, highlighting the warrior culture in these regions.
• Strabo noted that lowland people were equipped similarly to the Armenians and Medes
Developed Cities: According to Strabo, Kartli had a well-developed urban life with markets and public institutions, indicating a high level of societal organization.
Advanced Architecture: Strabo described Kartli’s cities as having buildings that were quite sophisticated for the time, with notable public spaces that reflected a thriving urban culture.
The Armazi cult was central, blending ancient Georgian and Persian elements (like Zoroastrian influences).
Strabo mentioned the polytheistic nature of the society, with multiple deities being worshipped.
Diverse Trading Center: Kartli’s cities, particularly those like Dioscuria (modern Sukhum), were described by Strabo as cosmopolitan trading hubs, where different ethnicities and cultures intersected, fostering economic prosperity.
Mithridatic wars and iberia
By the 1st century B.C., Colchis became a part of the Kingdom of Pontus under Mithridates
Despite Colchis’ weakened state and lack of centralized governance, it was crucial for Mithridates due to its resources, including timber for shipbuilding and access to a coastline vital for fleet construction.
Mithridates initially installed his son as the ruler of Colchis to suppress local unrest, as Colchis had rebelled against Pontic control.
While Mithridates controlled the coastal regions of Colchis, the mountainous areas, such as those inhabited by the Svans, remained independent. The Svans were known for their bravery, physical strength, and gold collection techniques.
the Kingdom of Kartli faced pressure from Armenia under Tigranes the Great, who expanded Armenia’s territories, diminishing Kartli’s influence in the South Caucasus. Kartli likely became an ally or fell under Armenian influence during this period.
Pompey’s Campaign: During the Third Mithridatic War (66-65 B.C.), the Roman general Pompey pursued Mithridates into the Caucasus. The Kingdom of Kartli initially resisted Roman forces, but after a series of battles, including a major engagement at the Aragvi River, Kartli surrendered. Its king, Artag, was forced to negotiate terms with Pompey, offering hostages and accepting Roman dominance.
Roman Expansion: Rome’s victory over Mithridates and the subsequent campaigns of Pompey brought the Caucasus, including Kartli and Colchis, into the Roman sphere of influence.colchis was placed under the governance of a Roman-appointed ruler, Aristarchus, while Kartli retained some autonomy but was effectively subordinated to Rome.
Pompey’s expeditions in Caucasus
Pompey the Great’s expedition into the Caucasus took place during the Third Mithridatic War (75–63 B.C.) as part of his broader campaign against Mithridates VI of Pontus and his ally, Tigranes II of Armenia
Chasing Mithridates: After losing battles, Mithridates ran to the northern areas near the Caucasus, so Pompey followed him to defeat any remaining enemies.
By controlling the regions surrounding the Black Sea, Rome could protect its eastern provinces and secure critical trade routes. The Caucasus was a strategic area between Europe and Asia, important for maintaining Roman power in the eastern Mediterranean and beyond.
King Artoces of Iberia initially resisted Roman control. Pompey marched into Iberia, encountering fierce resistance. The Iberians were known as formidable warriors, using the natural geography (mountains and rivers) to their advantage.
Battles: In a famous battle along the Cyaneus River (possibly the Kura River in Georgia), Pompey’s forces clashed with the Iberians. Despite the difficult terrain and strong opposition, Pompey’s disciplined legions were able to overpower the Iberian forces.
Aftermath: Following his defeat, King Artoces eventually sued for peace and agreed to become a Roman ally. This agreement helped secure Rome’s influence in the region without direct occupation.
he wanted albania too
King Oroeses of Albania also posed a challenge. The Albanians were a powerful tribe, known for their cavalry and ability to wage guerrilla warfare. Initially, they launched a surprise attack on Pompey during a festival, hoping to catch the Romans off guard.
Battle of the River Abas: This battle took place near the River Abas (modern-day Alazani River). Despite the surprise attack and the challenging conditions (including rough terrain), Pompey’s forces managed to repel the Albanians and defeat them.
Aftermath: King Oroeses surrendered after his defeat. Like the Iberians, the Albanians agreed to become Roman allies. This helped Pompey neutralize a major potential threat to Roman power in the region.
Iberian-roman relationship
Initial Contact: After the civil wars in Rome, which weakened its grip on the Caucasus, the Parthian Empire emerged as a new power. This change opened opportunities for Kartli.
In this context, Kartli sought to establish relations with Rome as a counterbalance to Parthian influence.
By the late 1st century B.C., Kartli began formal diplomatic engagements with Rome. The mutual interest in countering Parthian power led to an alliance.
Under King Parnabadzos, Kartli aligned closely with Rome, which helped the kingdom to reinforce its position against Parthia.
During the reign of Emperor Augustus, Kartli became a crucial ally of Rome. The kingdom’s military support was vital for Rome’s attempts to exert influence over Armenia, a region contested between Rome and Parthia.
Pharsmanes I played a significant role in strengthening Kartli. His military campaigns successfully challenged Parthian dominance and helped establish a friendly king in Armenia, thereby expanding Kartli’s influence.
Kartli, allied with Roman forces, engaged in military campaigns against Parthian forces. These conflicts were significant for establishing Kartli as a dominant power in the region.
The alliance with Rome fostered cultural exchanges, evident through archaeological finds such as Roman coins, pottery, and inscriptions in Kartli. These artifacts indicate strong trade and cultural links.
while Kartli thrived as an independent kingdom, Colchis (to the west of Kartli) struggled to maintain its autonomy. Colchis fell under increasing Roman influence and became a client state by the end of the 1st century B.C.
Conversion of kartli into christianity
Christianity began to penetrate Georgia as early as the 1st century, with traditions suggesting that St. Andrew, one of Christ’s apostles, preached there. This laid the groundwork for future conversions.
The 3rd century was marked by the decline of the Roman Empire, which faced internal crises, economic troubles, and external threats, particularly from the Sasanian Empire that replaced the Parthian Empire in 224 AD.
The Sasanian Empire adopted an aggressive foreign policy, expanding its influence in the Caucasus, which included Armenia and later Kartli (Georgia).
The late 3rd century saw the rise of Emperor Diocletian, who reformed the Roman Empire and reasserted its power, leading to the Peace of Nisibis (299 AD) with Iran. This peace allowed Rome to reclaim influence over Kartli, re-establishing it as a Roman client state.
The pivotal figure in the Christianization of Kartli is St. Nino, a Cappadocian woman who traveled from Jerusalem to Armenia and then to Georgia.
• According to tradition, St. Nino healed Queen Nana of Kartli,which led to the conversion of King Mirian around 326 AD.
King Mirian’s request to Emperor Constantine for priests signified a political alliance with Rome and a desire for cultural integration into the Christian world.
• The Edict of Milan (313 AD) by Constantine legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire, paving the way for its acceptance in Kartli.
The adoption of Christianity reinforced royal power, with kings gaining legitimacy through their association with the Church.
By the 2nd half of the 4th century, the geopolitical situation shifted again. The rise of Shapur II of the Sasanian Empire posed a renewed threat to the stability of the region, including Kartli.
• The conflict between Rome and Iran during this period diminished Roman influence and increased Iranian pressure on Kartli.
• Despite pressures from both empires, Kartli maintained a degree of autonomy until the early 5th century. The region navigated the geopolitical turmoil through alliances and assertive diplomacy.
History of Georgia
Colchis- mitopoethical and historical perception
colchis as part of greek and persian world
foundation of kindom of iberia
iberian society according to strabo
mithridatic wars and iberia
pompey’s expedition in caucasus
iberian-roman relationship
coversion of Kartli into christianity
Colchis- mitopoethical and historical perception
concept of clochis is both mythical and historical, with deep roots in acient greek mythology and histroical accounts of region
Mythopoetical perception:
colchis is most famously known in greek myths as land of Golden Fleece, destination of Jason and the Argonaunts.
fleece was guarded by King Aeëtes of Colchis, and Jason, with the help of the sorceress Medea stole it.
n Greek mythopoetics, Colchis was seen as a distant and exotic land, rich in natural resources like gold
Historical perception:
significant trade center in the ancient world. Archaeological findings show that Colchis had a highly developed culture and played a key role in regional trade networks.
The Greeks eventually colonized the Black Sea region, including Colchis, around the 6th century BCE. The Greek city-states established trade relations with the local population, blending Greek and Colchian cultures.
Colchis was also strategically important, acting as a cultural and political bridge between the Greek world and the Caucasus.
It was involved in the power struggles between larger empires such as Persia, and later Rome, and functioned as an important buffer region.
euxeinos pontos vs axenios pontus
reek names for the Black Sea, but they carry different connotations, reflecting the evolving Greek perception of the sea and its surrounding regions.
1. Axenios Pontos (Ἄξενος Πόντος) – “Inhospitable Sea”
The term Axenios means “inhospitable” or “unwelcoming.” This was the earlier name given by the ancient Greeks to the Black Sea.
ts unpredictable weather, violent storms, and difficult navigation contributed to this negative reputation.
The coastline was inhabited by various indigenous peoples whom the Greeks saw as “barbaric” or hostile
2. Euxeinos Pontos (Εὔξεινος Πόντος) – “Hospitable Sea”
Over time, the Greeks renamed the sea Euxeinos Pontos, meaning the “Hospitable Sea.” This change in name reflects a shift in perception from negative to positive.
As Greek colonization spread along the Black Sea coast from the 7th century BCE onward, Greek settlements were established in places like Byzantium (modern Istanbul), Sinope, Odessa, and Phasis (Colchis).
Herodotus, II, 104
• Colchians’ Egyptian Origins: Herodotus suggests that the Colchians are descendants of Egyptians, based on personal observation and inquiry. He notes that the Colchians have better memory of their Egyptian heritage than the Egyptians do of them.
Colchis as part of greek and persian world
6th century B.C., a new player, in the form of the Persian empire, appeared in the Caucasus.
Colchis fell under Persian influence during the reign of King Darius I (522–486 BCE) as part of the Achaemenid Empire’s territorial expansion.
Darius reorganized the empire into 20 satrapies, which served as the primary administrative divisions. Each satrapy was governed by a satrap (governor) appointed by the king.
Colchis was part of the 19th satrapy of the Persian Empire. However, unlike most satrapies, Colchis was not directly governed by Persian administrators.
Colchis was required to pay tribute but retained a degree of autonomy in its internal affairs.
Persian control over Colchis was likely indirect. The mountainous and forested terrain of the region made direct governance difficult
Persian influence brought about increased interaction between Colchis and other parts of the Achaemenid Empire, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing Colchis’s role in the regional trade network.
in 4th 5th century Herodotus noted Colchis and its neighbors as part of the Persian sphere of influence but not directly under Persian rule.
The archaeological findings, such as Achaemenid silver vessels in Colchis, indicate trade and cultural exchanges, showcasing the economic interdependence between the Persians and local populations.
During the Greco-Persian Wars (480 B.C.), Colchis and other Caucasian peoples joined Xerxes’ army, indicating their obligation to participate in military operations due to Persian influence.
Xenophon's (greek solider) account is important because he directly says that the people of the South Caucasus and its neighboring regions did not obey the Achaemenid king. Moreover, the Macrones knew that the Greek army was the enemy of the Persians, although they still helped them. In another section, Xenophon again lists those tribes that do not declare obedience to the Persian king.
Foundation of Iberia
In the second half of the 4th century, global changes took place in the ancient world. Alexander the Great launched a great campaign against Achaemenid Persia, which resulted in the destruction of Persia and the disintegration of its empire.
After Alexander's death, a long series of conflicts between his comrades and friends began for his succession. This period, which lasted more than 40 years, is known as the Diadochos Wars.
A new historical epoch began called the Hellenistic era, and new states and new culture arose. The world transitioned to a different level of development.
The Georgian historical traditions dates the creation of The kingdom of Iberia/ Kartli to this era of geopolitical changes.
Before the creation of the Kingdom of Kartli, we had only Greco-Roman written sources and archeological excavation data about Georgia in the ancient period
Greco-Roman sources do not write anything about the story of the foundation of the Kingdom of Kartli.
Insert: Why is the Greco-Roman world not interested in the Caucasus?
In the Hellenistic era, B.C. In the III-II centuries, Greece lost its importance as a political-cultural center. Consequently, the Greek polis had less political and cultural interests in the Black Sea basin and the Caucasus.
According to "Mokjemai Kartlisai", Alexander conquered Kartli and left the king's son Azo as its ruler. This source mentions Azos as the first king of Kartli, who evicted the inhabitants of his kingdom from Arian-Kartli.
Archaeological findings indicate battles in Eastern Georgia during Azo’s time, suggesting a conflict between Azo (possibly a foreigner) and Farnavaz (a local elite).
• Farnavaz emerged victorious over Azo and initiated significant reforms, dividing Kartli into administrative units and establishing a system of tax collection. He is seen as the foundation of the kingdom due to his local origins and support.
The kingdom’s division into regions considered local traditions and geographical conditions, highlighting Farnavaz’s role as a unifier.
Iberian society according to Strabo
After the collapse of Achaemenid Persia and the death of Alexander the Great, Pharnavaz took advantage of the power vacuum in the region and united an important part of the Georgian territory, including the modern Southern Western parts of Georgia.
Though on the edge of the Hellenistic sphere, it was part of that cultural world, unlike the more isolated Colchis in the west.
Strengthened trade and culture in Dioscurias (modern Sukhum), described as ethnically and culturally diverse.
we have 4 clans in kartli. 1. Royal Clan: Provided not just kings but also judges and military leaders. 2. Priestly Clan: Oversaw religious functions and administered the law. 3. Warrior and Farmer Clan: Consisted of soldiers and agricultural workers, reflecting a division between military and farming roles. 4. Royal Slaves: Handled agricultural and pastoral labor, showing a reliance on slave labor in the kingdom.
Strabo mentioned that the judicial and military power was separate from the king, handled by another family member. However, this conflicts with local sources like the “Life of Kartli,” which suggests the king directly led military operations.
Diplomatic Role: Strabo suggested that priests handled diplomacy and foreign relations, another claim disputed by other historical accounts, which emphasize the king’s involvement in state matters.
Mountain People:
• Lived in a warlike manner, akin to nomadic tribes like the Scythians and Sarmatians.
Only nobles in the lowlands were buried with weapons, reflecting a hierarchical society.
• Likely had close ties with these nomadic peoples and shared a warrior culture.
Lowland People:
• More peaceful, engaged in agriculture, and influenced by Iranian (Median) cultural traditions.
In contrast, in the mountains, even common people were buried with weapons, highlighting the warrior culture in these regions.
• Strabo noted that lowland people were equipped similarly to the Armenians and Medes
Developed Cities: According to Strabo, Kartli had a well-developed urban life with markets and public institutions, indicating a high level of societal organization.
Advanced Architecture: Strabo described Kartli’s cities as having buildings that were quite sophisticated for the time, with notable public spaces that reflected a thriving urban culture.
The Armazi cult was central, blending ancient Georgian and Persian elements (like Zoroastrian influences).
Strabo mentioned the polytheistic nature of the society, with multiple deities being worshipped.
Diverse Trading Center: Kartli’s cities, particularly those like Dioscuria (modern Sukhum), were described by Strabo as cosmopolitan trading hubs, where different ethnicities and cultures intersected, fostering economic prosperity.
Mithridatic wars and iberia
By the 1st century B.C., Colchis became a part of the Kingdom of Pontus under Mithridates
Despite Colchis’ weakened state and lack of centralized governance, it was crucial for Mithridates due to its resources, including timber for shipbuilding and access to a coastline vital for fleet construction.
Mithridates initially installed his son as the ruler of Colchis to suppress local unrest, as Colchis had rebelled against Pontic control.
While Mithridates controlled the coastal regions of Colchis, the mountainous areas, such as those inhabited by the Svans, remained independent. The Svans were known for their bravery, physical strength, and gold collection techniques.
the Kingdom of Kartli faced pressure from Armenia under Tigranes the Great, who expanded Armenia’s territories, diminishing Kartli’s influence in the South Caucasus. Kartli likely became an ally or fell under Armenian influence during this period.
Pompey’s Campaign: During the Third Mithridatic War (66-65 B.C.), the Roman general Pompey pursued Mithridates into the Caucasus. The Kingdom of Kartli initially resisted Roman forces, but after a series of battles, including a major engagement at the Aragvi River, Kartli surrendered. Its king, Artag, was forced to negotiate terms with Pompey, offering hostages and accepting Roman dominance.
Roman Expansion: Rome’s victory over Mithridates and the subsequent campaigns of Pompey brought the Caucasus, including Kartli and Colchis, into the Roman sphere of influence.colchis was placed under the governance of a Roman-appointed ruler, Aristarchus, while Kartli retained some autonomy but was effectively subordinated to Rome.
Pompey’s expeditions in Caucasus
Pompey the Great’s expedition into the Caucasus took place during the Third Mithridatic War (75–63 B.C.) as part of his broader campaign against Mithridates VI of Pontus and his ally, Tigranes II of Armenia
Chasing Mithridates: After losing battles, Mithridates ran to the northern areas near the Caucasus, so Pompey followed him to defeat any remaining enemies.
By controlling the regions surrounding the Black Sea, Rome could protect its eastern provinces and secure critical trade routes. The Caucasus was a strategic area between Europe and Asia, important for maintaining Roman power in the eastern Mediterranean and beyond.
King Artoces of Iberia initially resisted Roman control. Pompey marched into Iberia, encountering fierce resistance. The Iberians were known as formidable warriors, using the natural geography (mountains and rivers) to their advantage.
Battles: In a famous battle along the Cyaneus River (possibly the Kura River in Georgia), Pompey’s forces clashed with the Iberians. Despite the difficult terrain and strong opposition, Pompey’s disciplined legions were able to overpower the Iberian forces.
Aftermath: Following his defeat, King Artoces eventually sued for peace and agreed to become a Roman ally. This agreement helped secure Rome’s influence in the region without direct occupation.
he wanted albania too
King Oroeses of Albania also posed a challenge. The Albanians were a powerful tribe, known for their cavalry and ability to wage guerrilla warfare. Initially, they launched a surprise attack on Pompey during a festival, hoping to catch the Romans off guard.
Battle of the River Abas: This battle took place near the River Abas (modern-day Alazani River). Despite the surprise attack and the challenging conditions (including rough terrain), Pompey’s forces managed to repel the Albanians and defeat them.
Aftermath: King Oroeses surrendered after his defeat. Like the Iberians, the Albanians agreed to become Roman allies. This helped Pompey neutralize a major potential threat to Roman power in the region.
Iberian-roman relationship
Initial Contact: After the civil wars in Rome, which weakened its grip on the Caucasus, the Parthian Empire emerged as a new power. This change opened opportunities for Kartli.
In this context, Kartli sought to establish relations with Rome as a counterbalance to Parthian influence.
By the late 1st century B.C., Kartli began formal diplomatic engagements with Rome. The mutual interest in countering Parthian power led to an alliance.
Under King Parnabadzos, Kartli aligned closely with Rome, which helped the kingdom to reinforce its position against Parthia.
During the reign of Emperor Augustus, Kartli became a crucial ally of Rome. The kingdom’s military support was vital for Rome’s attempts to exert influence over Armenia, a region contested between Rome and Parthia.
Pharsmanes I played a significant role in strengthening Kartli. His military campaigns successfully challenged Parthian dominance and helped establish a friendly king in Armenia, thereby expanding Kartli’s influence.
Kartli, allied with Roman forces, engaged in military campaigns against Parthian forces. These conflicts were significant for establishing Kartli as a dominant power in the region.
The alliance with Rome fostered cultural exchanges, evident through archaeological finds such as Roman coins, pottery, and inscriptions in Kartli. These artifacts indicate strong trade and cultural links.
while Kartli thrived as an independent kingdom, Colchis (to the west of Kartli) struggled to maintain its autonomy. Colchis fell under increasing Roman influence and became a client state by the end of the 1st century B.C.
Conversion of kartli into christianity
Christianity began to penetrate Georgia as early as the 1st century, with traditions suggesting that St. Andrew, one of Christ’s apostles, preached there. This laid the groundwork for future conversions.
The 3rd century was marked by the decline of the Roman Empire, which faced internal crises, economic troubles, and external threats, particularly from the Sasanian Empire that replaced the Parthian Empire in 224 AD.
The Sasanian Empire adopted an aggressive foreign policy, expanding its influence in the Caucasus, which included Armenia and later Kartli (Georgia).
The late 3rd century saw the rise of Emperor Diocletian, who reformed the Roman Empire and reasserted its power, leading to the Peace of Nisibis (299 AD) with Iran. This peace allowed Rome to reclaim influence over Kartli, re-establishing it as a Roman client state.
The pivotal figure in the Christianization of Kartli is St. Nino, a Cappadocian woman who traveled from Jerusalem to Armenia and then to Georgia.
• According to tradition, St. Nino healed Queen Nana of Kartli,which led to the conversion of King Mirian around 326 AD.
King Mirian’s request to Emperor Constantine for priests signified a political alliance with Rome and a desire for cultural integration into the Christian world.
• The Edict of Milan (313 AD) by Constantine legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire, paving the way for its acceptance in Kartli.
The adoption of Christianity reinforced royal power, with kings gaining legitimacy through their association with the Church.
By the 2nd half of the 4th century, the geopolitical situation shifted again. The rise of Shapur II of the Sasanian Empire posed a renewed threat to the stability of the region, including Kartli.
• The conflict between Rome and Iran during this period diminished Roman influence and increased Iranian pressure on Kartli.
• Despite pressures from both empires, Kartli maintained a degree of autonomy until the early 5th century. The region navigated the geopolitical turmoil through alliances and assertive diplomacy.
