Who wouldn't love to explore ancient ruins and bask in the sun on a gorgeous Mediterranean beach all in one trip? Greece is a country that offers both of these experiences and more. The area of Meteora is home to some of the most spectacular medieval monasteries in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. These imposing stone structures cling to cliffs overlooking the valley below, offering tourists unique views and plenty of photo opportunities. If you're looking for an unforgettable destination with stunning landscapes and rich history, Meteora is definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list!
1. The Great Meteoron Monastery
The Great Meteoron Monastery is the largest and oldest monastery in Meteora. It was founded in the 14th century by a monk from Mount Athos named Saint Athanasios the Meteorite and by the 16th century there were over 300 monks living there! It is home to a number of important historical artifacts including gold-embroidered and wood carved depictions and manuscripts as well as authentic national heirlooms and simple items of everyday life. Probably one of the most interesting parts of the monastery is the sacristy which contain shelves of skulls of the monks who have lived there over the years.
Today, 60 monks and nuns are involved in welcoming visitors as well as combining prayer with their work in order to live a blessed life.
A few things to remember when visiting:
The monasteries are a place of worship so please be respectful.
There are 330 steps to navigate before you even make it through the door, so wear good shoes.
There is a strict dress code, women need to wear a long skirt and definitely no trousers or shorts.
You cannot take photos within the interiors of the monasteries and definitely not of any of the monks or nuns without their explicit permission.
This monastery is closed every Tuesday.
There is an entrance fee, so be sure to bring some cash with you!
2. The Varlaam Monastery
The Varlaam Monastery is the second largest monastery in Meteora. It was founded in the 14th century by a monk named Varlaam. The monastery was abandoned for 2 centuries following his death until it was rebuilt by two brothers in the 16th century. Varlaam is known for its rich history and its beautiful architecture. The monastery also has a beautiful new museum which contains a number of valuable relics, art and manuscripts. Currently there are less than 10 monks that live here permanently. Not as many steps as the Great Meteoron, but 195 is still quite a few!
It has a strict dress code, for both men and women
There is an entry fee.
3. The Monastery of Rousanou
The Monastery of Rousanou is a women's monastery that was founded in the 16th century. Today more than 15 nuns live here. It is known for its beautiful gardens and its stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It consists of one single building taking up the entire available surface creating the impression it was built out of the rock! There are 177 steps to climb to get there and a cute bridge built in 1930 that takes you inside.
A strict dress code applies
The monastery is closed on Wednesdays
There is an entry fee
4. The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas
The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas is a small monastery that was founded in the 14th century. It is known for its secluded location, peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The main church is known for its well-preserved wall paintings made in 1527 by the renowned painter Theophanis o Kris. The monastery is built on 3 different floors with an internal staircase. There are 180 steps to get to the entrance. As space is so restricted there is no courtyard, the monks gathered in the narthex (porch). This monastery doesn’t get many tourists and is the quietest and most peaceful of the 6 in Meteora.
A strict dress code applies and you will be denied access if not dressed appropriately
The monastery is closed on Fridays.
There is an entry fee.
5. The Monastery of Agia Triada – The Holy Trinity Monastery
The Monastery of Agia Triada is one of the most photographed monuments in Meteora. It is also the most difficult one to get to with 140 steps down into the ravine before another 145 carved steps up to get to the entrance. The hike is worth it though, great views all the way! It was founded as early as 1362 by a monk called Dometious. The main chapel, built in the 15th century, is dedicated to the Trinity. There is a smaller chapel dedicated to John the Baptist built in the 17th century. This monastery was renovated in the 70’s. It became the ‘celebrity’ of monasteries in 1981 when it appeared in the James Bond film ‘For Your Eyes Only’ staring Roger Moore.
A strict dress code applies
The monastery is closed on Thursdays
There is an entry fee.
6. The Monastery of Saint Stephen
The Saint Stephen's Monastery is a unique monastery in that it does not require steps to get to the entrance; instead, you simply cross a bridge. The beginnings of this monastery date back almost 1,000 years to the early 12th century.
The museum has a wide collection of gold embroidered clothing and textiles, silverware, and wood carved crosses. There is also a collection of 154 manuscripts dating back to the 11th century, as well as rare books in various categories such as theology, philology, history, philosophy and law. Three of the most important, oldest books here are by Aristotle, printed in 1498. Also, dictionaries from Souida (Souda) and Varinou Phavorinous were printed in 1411. In 1961, this monastery became a convent and 28 nuns still live here today.
This monastery is closed on Mondays
A strict dress code applies
There is an entry fee
Meteora is an incredible place and definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in Greece. The view from the top of any of the monasteries is breathtaking and serene. You can really get a sense of how people lived hundreds of years ago when visiting these beautiful, historic buildings. If you have even just a few days while traveling in Greece, make sure to add Meteora to your itinerary!
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