Katskhi Pillar And Chiatura

Katskhi monastery is one of the most unusual spiritual sites of the country. A 6th century church built on the top of the 40 meters high natural monolith. On the way to Kastkhi we will show you Chiatura, and that it's Soviet - era cable cars that were made for the local manganese mines.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TRIP: CHIATURA CABLE CARS - KATSKHI PILLAR - UBISA MONASTERY FRESCOS

Duration: 9 - 10 hours

Tour Itinerary:

We drive to Zemo Imereti region in the west Georgia. Our first destination is Chiatura - a small town famous for its Soviet - era cable cars which, despite its rusty and aging appearance, is one of the most incredible engineering spectacles in the world used to  connect the manganese mines and residential areas of the town. Cable car ride in Chiatura and visit to Mghvimevi monastery from the 13th century. Next destination is Katskhi pillar- a natural limestone monolith located at the village of Katskhi, near the town of Chiatura. Its mythical aura made it a place of worship since humans settled this area. The church was probably built by the Stylites, who were early Christian ascetics who stood on top of pillars when preaching and praying. The pillar served as a pagan holy place for a long time and was most likely used for fertility rites. With the arrival of Christianity in Georgia in the 4th century, it came to represent seclusion from the hustle and bustle of ordinary life. It's not allowed to climb, and one monk lives on the top. After Katskhi we drive to visit Ubisa monastery and explore its unique murals from the 14th century. Next stop is a  ''Pottery Market'' in the village of Shrosha - after a short shopping we  drive back to Tbilisi.

End of the trip.

Price of the tour depends on the size of the group. For more details, please contact us.