Gurandukht (daughter of George I of Georgia) facts for kids

Gurandukht (Georgian: გურანდუხტი) was a princess from Georgia. She was the daughter of King George I and his first wife, Queen Mariam. Gurandukht was an important figure in Georgian politics, especially during the rule of her brother, King Bagrat IV. She passed away sometime before the year 1072.

Gurandukht's Role in Georgian Politics

Gurandukht played a key role in Georgia's government. This was especially true when her brother, King Bagrat IV, faced challenges.

Protecting the Young Prince

In the 1050s, King Bagrat IV had to leave Georgia for a time. This happened because of a rebellion led by Liparit IV. During this period, Bagrat's young son, Prince George, was declared king. Gurandukht became his "protector" or patroni. This meant she looked after the young prince and helped manage the kingdom.

Gurandukht was very brave. She even demanded that the Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos help her brother return to Georgia. After Bagrat came back, Gurandukht helped him regain full control of the kingdom. This happened after Liparit's rebellion ended.

A Royal Marriage for Peace

Gurandukht was married to Smbat, who was the brother of Kyurik II, an Armenian king. They had a daughter whose name is not known today.

King Bagrat IV wanted to arrange a special marriage for Gurandukht's daughter. He planned for her to marry Alp Arslan, a powerful leader of the Seljuk Empire. This marriage was meant to create peace after the Seljuks had campaigned in Georgia in 1064.

However, Kyurik, Gurandukht's brother-in-law, did not agree to the marriage at first. This led to a conflict. Eventually, Kyurik was convinced to agree. Gurandukht's daughter did marry Alp Arslan. Later, she married Nizam al-Mulk, a very important Seljuk official and scholar. They had a son named Ahmad ibn Nizam al-Mulk, who also became a powerful leader.

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