Tbilisi City Guide

Katskhi Monastery, perched on the Katskhi Pillar, is one of Georgia’s most unique and awe-inspiring landmarks. Located in the Imereti region near the town of Chiatura, this monolithic limestone pillar rises approximately 40 meters above the surrounding terrain, making it a stunning and mysterious sight.
The monastery atop the Katskhi Pillar is dedicated to Maximus the Confessor and symbolizes spiritual ascension and solitude. Dating back to the 10th-11th centuries, it was historically used by Christian ascetics seeking isolation from worldly distractions to focus on prayer and contemplation. After being abandoned for centuries, the site was restored in the 20th century and continues to serve as a place of worship.
Access to the top of the pillar is restricted, and only monks are permitted to climb its precarious metal ladder. However, visitors can still admire the site from below and explore the small church and grounds at its base. The area offers a serene atmosphere, with lush greenery and picturesque views adding to the spiritual allure of the site.
Katskhi Monastery is not just a marvel of architectural and natural harmony but also a testament to Georgia’s deep-rooted religious traditions. For travelers, it serves as a profound reminder of the human quest for connection with the divine, set against the backdrop of one of the country's most dramatic landscapes.
A visit to Katskhi Monastery is both a cultural and spiritual journey, leaving a lasting impression of its serene beauty and historical significance.