THE GRAPEVINE OF GNISHIKADZOR
04.09.2019
The landscape of Gnishikadzor represents a specific ecological niche, characterized by cold water springs and a rich diversity of flora and fauna; the grapevine plays a key role. At present in the areas that flank the River Gnishikadzor the wild progenitor of domestic grapes – the wild forest grapevine (Vitis vinifera, subsp. silvestris) still exists. It is also possible to find feral forms of grapevine in the neighborhood, which are result of cultivated varieties having grown without any human interference for a long time, and these have re-adopted the lifestyle of their wild ancestor – climbing up trees and rocks. Some cultivated varieties grow in the historical vineyards which spread along both sides of the Gnishik valley, among which the native variety Sev Aeni dominates. Archaeogenetic studies have shown that this variety has been cultivated locally since ancient times. The recent studies of DNA extracted from grape stems found during the excavations in Areni-1 cave and dating to the Early Medieval period (780-1000 AD, calibrated) show very close genetic relationships between the medieval grape remains and the Sev Areni variety which continues to grow in the Gnishikadzor’s abandoned vineyards.
From antiquity times grapevine has perhaps been one of the most worshiped plants, probably because of its exceptional vitality and its importance for the economy and spiritual life. As a holy plant, the grape achieved a central role in ancient societies, especially among the sun-worshipers, being considered a «plant of sun», and a «vital food» for accompanying symbols – the birds. These legends were inherited by Christianity. Christianity sanctified numerous folk beliefs: as a plant representing the basis of the Savior’s blood, grapevine was identified with the Tree of Life. The Armenians believe that the Tree of Life is associated with the grapevine. This phenomenon was expressed nearly in all surviving examples of their material culture (reliefs, monumental art, frescoes, mosaics, miniatures, other arts and crafts)․
(15 Images)
