The project for the successful restoration of Tsiskarauli Family Tower in the village of Akhieli in northern Georgia’s mountainous Khevsureti region has been unveiled as one of the winning entries of this year’s Europa Nostra Award, the European Union prize for cultural heritage.
In her social media post, Tamar Beruchashvili, the Georgian Ambassador to Romania, on Tuesday said the monument had won the Europe’s “most prestigious” award, and extended her congratulations to the project team, supporters, and contributors for “preserving Georgian cultural heritage as part of European cultural treasure”.
The project was recognised by the European Commission and Europa Nostra in May as one of 26 outstanding winners from 18 countries, winning the Grand Prix in the category of Citizens’ Involvement and Awareness Raising for its efforts to save the watchtower that was severely damaged by a Russian missile in 2001, during the Second Chechen war, and was at risk of collapse.
“The use of traditional materials and techniques has enhanced the authenticity of the work, while community engagement, involving locals, international volunteers, and the diaspora has created a sense of stewardship. The project has served as a catalyst for international cultural relations, peace, and trust building, demonstrating the power of heritage-led collaboration in overcoming conflict and rehabilitating local communities”, the Award’s jury said.
The site has been opened to visitors to explore the region’s complex history via a new walking route, with the tower’s history presented through interpretative panels. Remnants of the Russian missile, information about the restoration efforts and nearby villages is also presented.
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