Natural hazard affecting the Katskhi pillar monastery (Georgia)

The present work reports the main results of a preliminary assessment of the stability condition affecting the Katskhi Pillar Monastery in western Georgian. The research activities have been carried out with the support of National Agency for Cultural Heritage of Georgia in Tiblisi, following field survey activities conducted during May and December 2012. The field mission was aimed at the implementation of the following activities: (i) collection of preliminary geological, geomorphological and geomechanical data in order to define the main strength and deformation parameters; (ii) geodetic surveying with TLS techniques for the 3D model reconstruction of the site and collection of geometric data for future slope stability analyses; (iii) seismic survey with passive technique to achieve information about resonant frequency of the site; (iv) preliminary analysis of rock pillar stability; (v) monitoring project design for a full analysis on long-term risk assessment for the Katskhi pillar.