406–409 AD: Breaking the Persian Tribute and the Return of Dignity

King Pharasmanes IV (Parsman IV) ruled for only three years, but they were three years of fire. He was the grandson of Aspacures III, and he ascended the throne with one goal: to break the chains of Persian servitude. For decades, Georgian kings had been paying humiliating tribute to the Sassanid Shahs. Pharasmanes decided enough was enough.

His reign is a flashpoint of resistance. He is the king who said “No” to a superpower.

The Great Rebellion

Upon taking the crown, Pharasmanes IV made a shocking announcement: Iberia would no longer pay tribute to Persia. He expelled the Persian officials and Zoroastrian priests from Mtskheta. This was a declaration of war.

Knowing that the Sassanids would retaliate, Pharasmanes turned to the West. He renewed the alliance with the Roman (Byzantine) Empire, specifically with Emperor Arcadius. He invited Roman troops back into the country to guard the passes. He effectively flipped the geopolitical chessboard, tearing up the Treaty of Acilisene that had subjugated his country for twenty years.

The Cost of Freedom

The Persians, furious at this insolence, mobilized a massive army. Pharasmanes met them in battle. Though the chronicles are sparse on the details of the specific engagements, the outcome was clear: Pharasmanes managed to hold his ground long enough to restore the autonomy of the Georgian crown.

He fortified the royal city of Bolnisi (in Kvemo Kartli), turning it into a bastion against southern invasions. His short reign proved that Georgian submission was not permanent. He reignited the spirit of resistance that would eventually culminate in the legendary reign of Vakhtang Gorgasali a few decades later.

Tourism Guide: Bolnisi Sioni

Pharasmanes IV’s strategic focus on the south left a lasting mark:

  1. Bolnisi Sioni Cathedral: This is the oldest extant church building in Georgia (built 478–493 AD), but its foundations and the importance of the city date back to the fortifications strengthened by Pharasmanes IV. The famous “Bolnisi Cross” comes from this site. Visiting Bolnisi is visiting the frontline where Pharasmanes drew his line in the sand against Persia.