394–406 AD: Faith, Fortifications, and the Defense of the Faith

King Trdat came to the throne as an old man. He was the grandfather of his predecessor, Varaz-Bakur II (through marriage lines), and likely took the crown because the heir (Pharasmanes IV) was too young or held hostage. Despite his advanced age, Trdat was a man of immense energy and piety.

He ruled at the turn of the 5th century, a time when Christianity in Georgia was still solidifying its hold against Zoroastrian pressure. Trdat is best known not for battles, but for bricks. He understood that faith needed stone to survive.

The Foundation of Rustavi

Trdat is credited with founding the church and canals of Rustavi. Before Trdat, Rustavi was a strategic settlement, but he transformed it into a major center. He built a church there and, crucially, an irrigation canal (Ru). The name “Rustavi” (Head of the Canal) is often linked to these ancient engineering works.

By developing the infrastructure of the Kvemo Kartli region, Trdat strengthened the kingdom’s economic base close to the Persian border. It was a strategic move—building wealth and population density in the south to act as a buffer.

The Pious King

The chronicles describe Trdat as a man of “great faith.” He didn’t just build in Rustavi; he laid the foundations for the Nekresi Church in Kakheti, one of the oldest standing Christian structures in Georgia. His reign was a period of spiritual entrenchment. He negotiated with the Persians to allow the Georgian church to function, paying tribute in gold so that his people could pay tribute to Christ.

Trdat proves that you don’t need to be a young warrior to be a great king. Sometimes, an old builder is what a nation needs to survive.

Tourism Guide: Trdat’s Legacy

  1. Rustavi Fortress: Visit the ruins of the ancient fortress in the modern city of Rustavi. While much is medieval, the foundations date back to the time of Trdat and the canal systems he pioneered.
  2. Nekresi Monastery: The small basilica at Nekresi (Kakheti) is dated to the late 4th century. Standing inside this tiny, ancient stone church, you are standing in a building likely commissioned by King Trdat himself. It is a direct link to the dawn of Georgian Christianity.