Meteora

The Meteora monasteries rise dramatically on towering rock pinnacles, some soaring 400 metres above the Peneas Valley in the Thessalian plain. Lying between the small town of Kalambaka and the village of Kastraki, these awe-inspiring sites are linked by a network of paths and winding roads, inviting visitors to explore the monasteries and the surrounding landscape. Some remain inhabited by monks and nuns, while others stand as silent, atmospheric reminders of the past.

The name Meteora, meaning “suspended in the air,” perfectly captures the extraordinary nature of these monasteries. Built in an inhospitable terrain, they are a remarkable achievement of both art and engineering, transforming sheer cliffs into places of retreat, meditation, and prayer. The first hermits arrived in the 11th century, constructing the Skiti (hermitage) of Doupiani. Over the next six centuries, twenty-four monasteries were established. Without roads, food, building materials, and pilgrims were hoisted to the heights in nets or baskets—a testament to the devotion and perseverance of the monks.

Today, only six monasteries remain active, with four open to visitors: Aghios Stephanos, Aghia Triadas, Varlaam, and Megalo Meteoron. Each offers a unique insight into Orthodox monastic life, with intricate frescoes, ancient manuscripts, and awe-inspiring views across the valley below. Walking between the monasteries reveals breathtaking vistas of rugged cliffs, olive groves, and the plain stretching to the horizon, making Meteora a truly unforgettable destination.

Meteora is a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality, offering visitors an unforgettable glimpse into one of Greece’s most iconic landscapes.