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Katskhi Column: Pillar of Faith

Discover the Katskhi Column, a towering symbol of faith and solitude in the heart of Georgia's Imereti region.

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The Katskhi Column, a 40-meter-high natural limestone monolith in the village of Katskhi, Imereti region, is a revered religious site topped by a small Orthodox church. Historically used by stylites for secluded prayer, it stands as a symbol of faith and resilience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Katskhura River valley.

A brief summary to Katskhi Column

  • Katskhi, GE
  • Monday 9 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Respect the site's religious significance by dressing modestly when visiting.
  • Take a short hike up the nearby hill for a better panoramic view of the Katskhi Pillar and its surroundings.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Chiatura to see the Soviet-era cable cars.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Chiatura, negotiate a taxi ride to Katskhi Pillar and back. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes. Expect to pay around 30 GEL for the round trip.

  • Public Transport

    From Kutaisi, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Zestafoni and ask the driver to drop you off at the car park heading to Katskhi Pillar for approximately 6 GEL. This takes about 1.5 hours. From there, you can hail a Chiatura-bound marshrutka, which will take about 30 minutes and cost 5 GEL per person.

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Discover more about Katskhi Column

Rising dramatically from the landscape in the Imereti region of Georgia, the Katskhi Column is a sight to behold. This natural limestone monolith, standing approximately 40 meters (130 ft) high, has been venerated for centuries and is capped by a small Orthodox church. The pillar overlooks the valley of the Katskhura River, adding to its serene and isolated atmosphere. Historical records first mention the Katskhi Column in the 18th century, with theories suggesting it was once a pagan temple of fertility. Following the Christianization of Georgia in the 4th century, it became a symbol of the new faith. A carved cross at the base of the column dates back to the 6th century, supporting this transition. The ruins of an early medieval hermitage, dating back to the 9th or 10th century, have been found on top. For centuries, the column served as a place of isolated worship, particularly by stylites – Christian ascetics who lived atop pillars to devote their lives to prayer and religious practice. The practice was adopted in Georgia, and the Katskhi Pillar became an ideal location for monks seeking solitude. In 1944, a group of alpinists and archeologists first documented the ascent of the pillar and discovered the ruins. Today, the Katskhi Column remains a powerful symbol of faith and is considered one of Georgia's most unique landmarks. Although visitors are no longer allowed to climb to the top, the site continues to attract pilgrims and tourists alike, drawn to its beauty and spiritual significance. The monastery at the base is open to male visitors seeking spiritual guidance.

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