Bellfounding Workshop

The workshop offers visitors a demonstration of the process of casting and further processing of large-volume bells and various church items. Guests have the opportunity to witness the creation of metal casting and make small souvenirs themselves

The rich natural resources in the Kvemo Kartli region, particularly metal deposits like the Sakdris-Kachaghiani gold mine, have played a significant role in the development of metallurgical traditions in Kvemo Kartli since the early Bronze Age. Cities such as Rustavi, Dmanisi, and Samshvilde were equally crucial during the Middle Ages. Further evidence of Kvemo Kartli's advanced metallurgical traditions lies in the Bolnisi iron deposits, especially the Foladauri (Chatakh) iron deposit, which remained in use until the early 20th century. The steel melting furnaces that have survived to this day were constructed by German colonists in the 19th century.

Little bells discovered in Georgia and the Caucasus date back to the 7th century, primarily serving ritual purposes. They were often hung on horses' chests and cattle (Saikhre, 5th century B.C.). Before the 12th century, the Georgian church called worshippers by knocking on a pole. Church bells became widespread in Georgia from the 13th century onwards, marking the gradual development of bell casting art.

Unfortunately, a significant portion of old Georgian bells was destroyed during historical invasions, particularly in the 20th century during the anti-religious campaign in the 1920s. Only around two dozen Georgian bells have survived to the present day, with the oldest dating back to the 15th century. The Bellfounding Workshop aims to preserve and restore this unique tradition.