High in the Caucasus Mountains, researchers have uncovered 'silver-filigree' ritual masks dating back 3,000 years to the Colchian culture. The masks, depicting wolves and eagles, were found in a high-altitude sanctuary used for winter-to-spring transition rites and seasonal animal-spirit propitiation.
This discovery bridges the gap between ancient Colchian mythology and modern Georgian folk festivals. The intricate silver work demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship and suggests that these masked ceremonies were central to the social and spiritual life of ancient mountain communities during the harshest months of the year.