Conservation of Wall Paintings in the Gelati Monastic Complex

The Gelati Monastic Complex consists of multiple structures. Wall paintings are present in the main space and annexes of the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, as well as in the main space and annex of the Church of St. George. Fragmentary remains of wall paintings can also be found in the Gate of David (South Gate) and the Church of St. Nicholas.

One of the main objectives of the Gelati Rehabilitation Committee is the protection and conservation of the wall paintings within the monastic complex.

The conservation policy is based on internationally recognized ethical principles.

The fundamental principle of heritage conservation requires the preservation of the paintings in their current state – without additions or alterations.

Taking into account both existing and emerging risks, the primary goal of wall painting conservation is to base decisions on research and diagnostics, ensuring that conservation interventions are both effective and impactful.

Conservation actions include both preventive passive measures and physical interventions, aiming to achieve the maximum result with minimal interference.

The main criteria guiding conservation interventions are:

• Protection and preservation of values

• Knowledge of the monument’s physical history

• In-depth understanding of original and added materials

• Assessment of the current condition

• Knowledge of the mechanisms and compatibility of conservation materials

• Principle of minimal intervention

• Adherence to health and safety standards

• Preparation and archiving of comprehensive documentation

Based on the recommendations of Paragraph 4 of Decision #44COM7B.47, adopted at the 44th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, and the joint WHC/ICOMOS/ICCROM mission to Gelati (November–December 2022), since April 2023 the wall painting conservation team has been involved in the monitoring and research of the complex.

Since autumn 2023, the local conservation team has been led by British experts Stephen Rickerby and Lisa Shekede, focusing on the wall paintings of the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary.

At the end of 2023, Professor Dr. Steffen Laue (University of Applied Sciences Potsdam) joined the team, conducting analytical research on salts, building materials, and conservation materials.

From 2025, Dr. Daniela Isola (Tuscia University) also joined the team, conducting microbiological studies on the wall paintings of the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary.

Key components of the conservation programme include:

• Investigation of wall painting technology
• Research into physical history
• Condition assessment
• Investigation of salts
• Microbiological research
• Environmental monitoring
• Long-term condition monitoring
• Remedial treatments
• Preventive and passive measures

For detailed information, please see:
Conservation Programme, Timeline, and Risk Assessment of the Wall Paintings in the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary – Link

Additional information:

Since 2025, the wall painting conservation team has been working as two groups, with one group continuing work in the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary and the other beginning research on the wall paintings in the Church of St. George.
For more information, please see: Wall Painting Conservation Team and Programme of the Church of St. George.