Katskhi Church – Imposing Religious Monument in Western Georgia
Nestled in the hills of western Georgia, the Katskhi Church is an imposing religious monument that harks back to the 4th century. This awe-inspiring church stands atop a 130-foot limestone pillar and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The Katskhi Church is a pillar of Georgian Christianity and has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.
A Brief History of Katskhi Church
The Katskhi Church was built in the 4th century and has been a place of worship since then. It is a two-storey structure that stands atop a 130-foot limestone pillar. It was originally built as a hermitage and served as a refuge for Christian monks who sought to escape persecution. The church was abandoned in the 17th century and remained in ruins until the 20th century when it was restored and re-opened as a pilgrimage site.
The Significance of Katskhi Church
The Katskhi Church is an important religious monument and has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. It is a symbol of Georgian Christianity and is one of the oldest Christian monuments in the region. The church is a reminder of the rich cultural and religious heritage of Georgia and is a popular tourist attraction.
What to See at Katskhi Church
The Katskhi Church is a stunning religious monument that stands atop a 130-foot limestone pillar. The church itself is a two-storey structure with a single bell tower and a single entrance. Inside the church, visitors can view the ancient frescoes and religious icons that adorn the walls. The view from the top of the pillar is breathtaking and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Getting to Katskhi Church
The Katskhi Church is located in the hills of western Georgia and can be reached by car or bus from the capital city of Tbilisi. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic. There are regular buses from Tbilisi to the nearby village of Katskhi and from there it is a short walk to the church.
Practical Information
The Katskhi Church is open to visitors from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday. Entrance to the church is free of charge but visitors must be respectful of the religious monuments and follow the dress code (no shorts or sleeveless shirts).
Conclusion
The Katskhi Church is an imposing religious monument that stands atop a 130-foot limestone pillar in western Georgia. The church has a long history and is a symbol of Georgian Christianity. It is a popular tourist attraction and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can explore the ancient frescoes and religious icons that adorn the walls of the church. Getting to the church is relatively easy and visitors should remember to dress appropriately and be respectful of the religious monuments.