In a remote village in Georgia stands a towering limestone pillar, nearly 40 meters high, and for two decades, one man lived alone on its tiny summit. This natural monolith is known as the Katskhi Pillar, and for many, it’s one of the most mysterious religious sites in the world.
Atop it is a modest chapel, a cottage, and the story of Maxime Qavtaradze, a monk who turned this ancient place into his personal monastery in the sky.
Visitors aren’t allowed up. In fact, reaching the top requires climbing a steel ladder bolted to the side of the cliff — something Maxime did rarely, and only when absolutely necessary. Supplies were sent up via rope.
“For me, this is closer to God. I live between Earth and heaven. I came here to cleanse my soul.”
— Maxime Qavtaradze
Maxime began his solitary life in the early 1990s after struggling with addiction in his youth. He wanted to cut all ties to the distractions of the modern world. And he did. Completely.
It’s believed that monks used this pillar as early as the 9th century, retreating here in silence to be closer to God. But after the 15th century, the site was abandoned — until Maxime brought it back to life.
“I don’t hate the world. But the silence up here… it brings a peace you cannot find anywhere else.”
— Maxime Qavtaradze
Even now, the Katskhi Pillar continues to draw pilgrims and tourists alike, fascinated by the idea of total isolation and spiritual devotion.
