Ancient pottery discovered during renovations in Tbilisi, Georgia

Renovation workers in Tbilisi, Georgia, have discovered a cache of ancient pottery dating back approximately 1,000 years. The artifacts were found roughly 20 feet beneath Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s main thoroughfare, during roadwork intended to upgrade pedestrian crossings and signage.

The discovery includes intricately decorated pottery fragments, jugs, and various shards. Experts believe the items date to the 10th and 11th centuries, a period when Tbilisi was under Arab rule and functioned as a significant economic center and stop along the Silk Road.

David Lordkipanidze, director of the Georgian National Museum, noted that such finds are logical given the city’s history as a multicultural crossroads. Researchers plan to use additional studies, including 3D scanning, to more precisely determine the age of the artifacts.