One of interesting sights to review during your trip to Georgia (or particularly to Kutaisi) is Katskhi Pillar. The Pillar itself is a limestone rock column with a Christian Church built on top.
Before Christianity, the Pillar was a place of worship for locals (as a symbol of fertility). It didn’t loose its religious importance when Christianity came into Georgia. The rock was considered to be a place that is very close to God.
GPS coordinates for Garmin/Navitel: N42.2875959, E43.2156926
The first church was built on the top of the pillar somewhere between 6th and 8th centuries. It was being used until Turkish invasion, after which the church was abandoned.
Archeological excavations were held here in 1999-2009. After this, the church was reconstructed.
The territory of Church consists of several buildings: the one on the top of the Pillar and several buildings beneath.
The sight is open for visitors since 10am till 6pm. There is no admission fee.
There is steep ladder, but you won’t be able to get to the top of the pillar as the ladder is locked.
You can easily notice some ropes that are being used to deliver water, food and materials to the top of the pillar. But it is not really clear how monks resolve personal hygiene problems up there. Probably it is better not to walk around the pillar and keep the track of the wind direction 😀
The church view is quite scenic when looking from the cliff located nearby.
If you would like to find some more interesting views of the church and the pillar, you should buy a quadcopter (radio-controlled helicopter that can take a camera onboard).
Flights to Kutaisi:
Hotel prices in Kutaisi:
