FOR THE HISTORY OF THE FEUDAL HOUSE OF CHKHEIDZES OF KARTLI

Abstract

Since the 16th century, the Chkheidzes have been moving from Imereti to Kartli and have created a small noble family, "Sachkheidzo", in the extreme west of the Kartli Kingdom, in the eastern foothills of the Likhi Range. Against this background, the work discusses the issue of the founder of the Chkheidze house - Kekaoz Chkheidze, and the relationship between the Chkheidzes of Imereti and Kartli. The Chkheidzes are related to both the main and side branches of the Bagrations - the Bagration-Mukhranbatons, as well as the famous Saakadze family. Such relationships played a certain role in their advancement and status. Taking into account the above, the issue of the Chkheidzes' participation in the conspiracy against King Rostom is clear. The Chkheidzes made a significant contribution to the restoration and revival of the Itria Monastery Complex of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. They also worked in the religious sphere (Nikoloz Chkheidze, Svimon Chkheidze). The representative of the Chkheidzes of Kartli, Sekhnia Chkheidze, owns the historical work “The Life of Kings”, which recounts the history of the country from 1653 to 1739. The Chkheidzes for almost a century - from the 20s of the 17th century to the 30s of the 18th century - were actively present at the royal court of Kartli, held a number of titles (Molaretukhutses, Bokaultukhutses), and were engaged in diplomatic activities.

Keywords. Kartli; Chkheidzes; Itria; feudal; house; history.