A monk living on Katshki Pillar in Georgia

(Mail Online) - It takes a strong mind and a lot of willpower to become a monk and feel closer to God.

But one man has taken his devotion to new heights, literally.

Maxime Qavtaradze, a 59-year-old monk, has lived a life of virtual solitude on top of a pillar high above his Georgian monastry for 20 years.

When he wants to leave Katskhi Pillar, he spends 20 minutes getting down a 131ft ladder.

Supplies are winched up to him by his followers and he only comes down twice a week to pray with his followers.

But having worked as a crane operator before taking his orders in 1993, Maxime has always had a head for heights...

Complete article here.