Katskhi Pillar, Georgia

In Georgia, fans of spending time in remote places should go to the Katskhi Pillar. This sight is located in the eponymous village. The landmark rises above the ground for 40 meters. The pillar is a limestone monolith with an ancient temple on top of it. The exact date of construction of the temple is unknown. According to rough estimates, it was built no later than the 8th century.

Even in pagan times local residents associated the pillar with the almighty god of fertility. They believed that the rise to the top of the pillar can bring them closer to the divine powers. The first temple had been built on top with advent of Christianity. The shrine has existed for several hundred years and emptied only during the Ottoman invasion. After the military action, first attempts to subdue the pillar were committed only in the 18th century. However, all attempts were in vain.

The group of climbers made it possible to conquer the unbearable 40-meter structure only in 1944. They first found ruins of the ancient temple atop of the pillar. For several years, an archaeological research was conducted on top of the monolith and at its surrounding area. Many amazing artifacts as well as the remains of an unknown monk were discovered during that time. Several years ago, the temple on the mount was rebuilt. Today that’s an important place of pilgrimage and a major attraction in the region. During construction of a new temple ruins of former buildings were used. The temple was named after St. Maximus the Confessor. Now everyone can climb there using a specially set hanging ladder. Next - Tigers Nest Monastery