The Katskhi Pillar

In the Seventh Century, monks built a monastery on the top of a natural stone pillar outside of Chiatura, Georgia. It was used by the Stylites — Christian ascetics who lived on top of pillars to express their devotion. That sect is now extinct, but the monastery is still there. Visitors get to the top by climbing a 130 foot ladder.

Link | Photo: Ivane Goliadze

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Monasteries as Hotels

Monasteries have always welcomed travelers. When they are no longer used for monks, they make great hotels. Many have upgraded their accommodations in recent years to compete with luxury resorts.

As well as being physically beautiful, ex-monasteries are often strikingly spiritual, as if centuries of prayer and plainchant have seeped into their massive walls. A stay in a cloister seems to incline one to contemplation, reading, sleeping well and turning off the mobile.

Get a closer look at five such ex-monasteries. Link -via Boing Boing

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