Based on the novel by Prosper Merime "Mateo Falcone".
Sulkhan Iberieli, the famous scientist and the head of the excavation of the desert monastery complex, does not have the funds to finish his work. He is forced to turn to different authorities and people for help. He is supported by a young archaeologist, Tamriko, but their efforts end in failure.
The film tells the story of the difficult fate of the intelligentsia opposing ideological despotism.
