Traditional Georgian Wrestling Music

Ancient Georgian wrestling tradition ,,Chidaoba'' is inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Wrestling is a historically important sport in Georgia. Some historians believe the Greco-Roman style of wrestling incorporated many Georgian elements. In Georgia, wrestling is usually accompanied with a special piece of music called Sachidao. Georgians would stand in circle and two chosen athletes, called Palavanis, who would fight in the middle. Wrestling championships are still held annually in villages throughout Georgia. The picture shows medieval georgian fresco from Alaverdi monastery in Kakheti, showing chidaoba tradition.