Queen Tamar – The First Female King
Queen Tamar – The First Female King, Not Queen
(reigned 1184–1213)
Queen Tamar was a unique phenomenon in medieval history — a woman who ruled a powerful feudal state with the title of queen. During her time, Georgia entered a “Golden Age” — politically, culturally, and militarily.
Ascension to the Throne:
Tamar ascended the throne after the death of her father, George III. However, she had to fight to fully restore power — some of the nobility were skeptical of the idea of a female ruler. Nevertheless, she quickly gained authority and proved to be a strong and wise leader.
“King of kings and queen of queens”:
Tamar was recognized not as a queen, but as a king — it is no secret that this was unusual for the era. She ruled alone, not with her husband. Her rule proved that gender does not determine the strength of a leader.
Military power:
During Tamar’s reign, Georgia reached its geographical zenith — the country stretched from sea to sea (from the Black Sea to the Caspian). In 1204, the Empire of Trebizond was founded, in which Georgia played a decisive role. Its troops successfully repelled the Seljuks, Muslim leaders, and Caucasian uprisings.
Cultural flourishing:
During Tamar’s era, Shota Rustaveli wrote “The Knight in the Panther’s Skin” — the pinnacle of Georgian literature. Cathedrals, monasteries, and universities were built. Georgia became a cultural bridge between the West and the East.
End and canonization:
Tamar died in 1213. Her grave remains a mystery to this day, which makes her figure even more mythological. She was canonized as a saint by the Georgian Orthodox Church.
Tamar was a very modern ruler for the Middle Ages—strong, diplomatic, strict, and at the same time consciously humane.
