Katskhi Pillar

კაცხის სვეტი

A 40-meter natural limestone monolith topped by a tiny medieval church, historically inhabited by a solitary monk. This surreal sky-high hermitage is one of Georgia's most photographed spiritual sites.

Things to do

• Photograph the Pillar — Capture the striking silhouette of the 40-meter limestone monolith crowned by its tiny stone church from the viewing area at the base.
• Visit the base chapel — Explore the small Church of Simeon Stylites and the reconstructed monastery buildings at the foot of the pillar, open to all visitors.
• Learn the hermit's story — Discover how monk Maxime Qavtaradze lived atop the pillar for years, climbing an iron ladder to reach the sky-high hermitage.
• Walk the surrounding countryside — Stroll the green Imeretian hills and rural lanes around Katskhi village for peaceful views of the dramatic rock formation.
• Visit nearby Chiatura — Head to the mining town of Chiatura, famous for its Soviet-era cable cars, just a short drive from the pillar.
• Reflect at the shrine area — Take a quiet moment at the base shrine, where pilgrims light candles and observe the monastic silence of the site.

Food to try

• Imeretian khachapuri — The round, cheese-filled bread native to this region, made with local imeruli cheese and served warm.
• Khinkali — Juicy Georgian soup dumplings twisted at the top, a hearty staple found in nearby Chiatura eateries.
• Imeruli cheese — A fresh, mild white cheese produced in the Imereti region and used in countless local dishes.
• Ojakhuri — A rustic pan-fried pork and potato dish popular in Georgian family restaurants across the region.
• Homemade Georgian wine — Try local varietals from small Imeretian producers, often served straight from clay qvevri vessels.
• Badrijani nigvzit — Fried eggplant rolls stuffed with a garlicky walnut paste, a beloved cold appetizer.

Local customs & good to know

• The pillar top is off-limits — Only the resident monk may climb the pillar; visitors experience the site from the base and its chapel.
• Dress modestly — As an active religious site, cover shoulders and knees, and women may be asked to wear a headscarf in the chapel.
• Respect the silence — This is a place of monastic contemplation, so keep noise low and behave reverently near the shrine.
• Bring your own supplies — The rural location has few facilities, so carry water and snacks, and combine your visit with Chiatura for meals.

Nearby

• Nikortsminda Cathedral — 22 km
• Gelati Monastery — 38 km
• Bagrati Cathedral — 43 km
• Kutaisi — 43 km