# Tamar of Georgia

> Queen regnant of Georgia from 1184 to 1213

**Wikidata**: [Q244007](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q244007)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamar_I)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/tamar-of-georgia

## Summary
Tamar of Georgia, also known as Queen Tamar or Tamar the Great, was the Queen regnant of Georgia from 1184 to 1213. She is recognized as one of the most influential rulers in Georgian history, credited with leading the Kingdom of Georgia through its Golden Age and significantly expanding its political and cultural influence.

## Biography
- Born: 1166
- Nationality: Kingdom of Georgia
- Education: Not specified
- Known for: Reigning during Georgia's Golden Age and strengthening the kingdom's sovereignty
- Employer(s): Kingdom of Georgia (as monarch)
- Field(s): Politics, Monarchy

## Contributions
Tamar of Georgia's reign from 1184 to 1213 marked a period of significant political, military, and cultural expansion for the Kingdom of Georgia. Her leadership led to territorial gains and the flourishing of Georgian culture, including the construction of religious and architectural landmarks such as the cave monastery of Vardzia. She also became a symbol of national identity, with institutions like the Order of Queen Tamara later named in her honor.

## FAQs
### Who was Tamar of Georgia?
Tamar of Georgia, also known as Queen Tamar or Tamar the Great, was the Queen regnant of Georgia from 1184 to 1213. She is celebrated for leading Georgia to its medieval zenith, known as the Golden Age.

### What were Tamar of Georgia's major accomplishments?
Tamar's reign oversaw the expansion and consolidation of the Georgian state, military victories, and cultural achievements. She also commissioned significant religious and architectural works, including the Vardzia monastery complex.

### What is the significance of the Order of Queen Tamara?
The Order of Queen Tamara refers to two Georgian state awards: one established in 1915 and another revived in 2009. These honors commemorate Tamar's legacy and recognize distinguished service to the nation.

### Is there an asteroid named after Tamar of Georgia?
Yes, the asteroid 326 Tamara was named in her honor, reflecting her cultural and historical significance.

### What is Vardzia and how is it connected to Tamar of Georgia?
Vardzia is a cave monastery complex in Georgia, constructed around 1200. It is historically associated with Tamar's reign and represents the architectural and religious achievements of her era.

## Why They Matter
Tamar of Georgia is a pivotal figure in the history of Georgia, presiding over what is often called the country's Golden Age. Her rule was characterized by military strength, territorial expansion, and cultural flourishing. Her legacy influenced the development of national identity and inspired later institutions, such as the Order of Queen Tamara. Her reign also contributed to the preservation of Georgian independence and sovereignty during a turbulent era in the region.

## Notable For
- Reigning as Queen regnant of Georgia from 1184 to 1213
- Leading Georgia through its Golden Age
- Commissioning the Vardzia cave monastery
- Being honored through the establishment of the Order of Queen Tamara
- Having an asteroid, 326 Tamara, named in her honor
- Being a symbol of Georgian national identity and sovereignty

## Body

### Early Life and Accession
Tamar of Georgia, born in 1166, was a member of the Bagrationi dynasty and became the Queen regnant of the Kingdom of Georgia in 1184. Her reign began during a period of political instability, which she navigated to consolidate power and strengthen the kingdom.

### Reign and Governance
Tamar ruled Georgia from 1184 until her death in 1213. Her governance was marked by strategic military campaigns, territorial expansion, and the promotion of cultural and religious development. She was instrumental in commissioning significant architectural works, including the Vardzia monastery, which became a symbol of Georgian resilience and artistry.

### Cultural and Political Legacy
Under Tamar's rule, Georgia experienced a cultural renaissance. This period saw the flourishing of literature, religious art, and architecture. Tamar's court became a center of learning and patronage, reinforcing the kingdom's independence and prestige in the region.

### Honors and Recognition
Tamar's legacy has been honored through various institutions and awards. The Order of Queen Tamara, established in both 1915 and 2009, commemorates her contributions to Georgian statehood. Additionally, the asteroid 326 Tamara was named in her honor, highlighting her enduring cultural impact.

### Architectural Contributions
One of Tamar's most notable contributions includes the establishment of Vardzia, a cave monastery complex begun around 1200. This site remains a significant historical and religious landmark, symbolizing the architectural achievements of her reign.

### Death and Commemoration
Tamar of Georgia died on January 18, 1213. Her death marked the end of an era of prosperity and power for Georgia. She was succeeded by George IV, continuing the Bagrationi legacy. Her influence persists through cultural memory, religious sites, and national honors such as the Order of Queen Tamara.

### Modern Legacy
Tamar's legacy continues to be celebrated in modern Georgia. The revival of the Order of Queen Tamara in 2009 underscores her ongoing significance. Her name is commemorated in various forms, including the naming of the asteroid 326 Tamara and numerous cultural references that celebrate her role in Georgian history.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/581787/Tamara)
2. Integrated Authority File
3. Source
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. Virtual International Authority File
6. BBC Things
7. CERL Thesaurus
8. Sejm-Wielki.pl
9. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File