Once I saw the mountain monasteries of Meteora in Greece in one of the photos on the internet, and my amazement knew no bounds. How can such a magical place exist on our planet? How were such incredibly beautiful monasteries built? And so high up?! But what amazed me the most was that literally three months later, I stood on the edge of one of the steepest cliffs of Meteora in Greece.
Meteora… majestic rocks, like a fairy-tale petrified forest… What I’m about to write is just a feeble attempt to convey in words the significance of a place with an amazing combination of natural beauty and spiritual strength.
Warm wind, the outlines of mountains through the haze, and the pleasant scent of flowers. Hello, Meteora!
After experiencing all the delights of the Halkidiki island (where we spent most of our time during our trip to Greece), we headed towards the majestic mountains. The bus took us to the coveted destination, revealing the landscapes of this area along the way. And the closer we got to our destination, the sharper the feeling arose that we had left the ordinary world and approached something insanely mysterious.
Snow-white walls of tiny houses, red tiled roofs, and hundreds of rocks resembling a stone forest.
What are the Meteora?
Many may have seen photos of Meteora, but not everyone knows that Meteora is a cluster of monasteries, a small copy of Mount Athos. Greek temples situated on steep mountains at an altitude of 600 meters. There are only six of them, and the most popular one is the Monastery of the Holy Transfiguration, also known as the Great Meteoro.
There used to be about twenty of them, but many turned into ruins, abandoned by monks. The six monasteries that survived are all operational. Monks live here cut off from social media, comfort, grow their own vegetables, fruits, and bake bread.
Reaching some of them is almost impossible, and it’s equally impossible to imagine how much effort was spent to build such structures on sheer cliffs.
I haven’t seen all the monasteries, only the most beautiful ones, including the Great Meteoro. And it’s worth coming here primarily not for the ossuary (a place where the skulls of the monks who lived here are kept), ancient pottery, and a wooden plank that was once used here as a bell, but for the breathtaking views of the surroundings.
When you’re here, you’re overwhelmed by the grandeur of nature, the strength of the human spirit, and faith. It’s rare when architecture and nature exist in complete harmony and organically complement each other.
From one of the cliffs, you can see the cozy village of Kalambaka located at the foot of the mountains. Here you can have a hearty meal and stay overnight.
If you’re planning to visit Greece and want to include interesting locations in your itinerary, I have some posts that might interest you—include such locations as the ancient Acropolis and the cozy streets of Athens.
Interesting facts about Meteora: Where did this cosmic word come from?
There is indeed a connection between space and monasteries. Some say that the mountain monasteries of Meteora, from Greek, mean signs in the sky, heavenly places. And some say it’s “floating in the sky.” The one who said that Meteora is “floating in the sky” was the venerable Athanasius. He performed his feats in one of the caves here. And this cave became the Great Meteoro.
Inaccessible shelters reliably protected the hermit monks not only from the secular world but also from political persecutions.
From walking around the monasteries, I learned a few more interesting facts about this place. It turns out that in 1961, the first women’s monastery appeared here, and until that year, women were not allowed in, as on Mount Athos. So, I, a girl, was incredibly lucky to see this miracle.
It’s also said that there is a seventh monastery. But it’s more of a hermitage, where for over fifty years, only one hermit monk has been in service. Locals say that he has never left his abode and never descended into the valley.
How amazing this place is! Giant stalagmites soaring into the sky appeared as a gift to the monks striving to get closer to God. The incredible landscapes of Meteora seem like another wonder of the world, and the monasteries themselves are Greece’s brightest attraction.
So many thoughts, reflections, and ideas are born here. There’s such a fairy-tale energy here that endows you with new strength. There’s a special spirit here. If you abstract yourself from the hustle, continuous waves of tourists, and the clicking of cameras, you can hear the voice of this place.
And here you are, standing on the edge of a cliff, trying to find answers to the most important questions. Where did people find the strength to build temples on the tops of inaccessible rocks? Now you can climb up to them on stairs. But it used to be different. People lived alone with the stone. The material was hoisted on nets, even monks were hoisted on nets. Sometimes the ropes broke, people knew it and were prepared for such a cruel death, but it didn’t stop them, it only strengthened their faith in themselves and in God even more.
What could it be? The power of faith? The power of desires? Physical strength? I think that the desire of a person to get closer to God even a little created a unique architectural magnificence.
Today, in the crazy rhythm of life, filled with numerous events, meetings, and emotions, it’s hard to understand why men went to live in the mountains, wished to live in fasting, froze in cold nights, and didn’t sleep. And they gave themselves completely to prayer, hiding from the crazy world and people in complete seclusion.
The monks perceived this life as preparation for the next, afterlife, for transition to another, different world. If you think about it, don’t all religions say the same thing? That we all came here as a single higher substance, that we carry God within ourselves, and our goal is to come to Him again, having passed this earthly path?
Want to learn more about Greece and looking for unusual places? Don’t miss my post about the cozy village of Afitos by the sea.
Practical tips for visitors.
If you’re planning a visit to mountain monasteries of Meteora in Greece, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
- Bring water and snacks: While some of the monasteries have small cafeterias, it’s a good idea to carry water and snacks, especially if you plan on exploring multiple sites in a day.
- It is worth remembering that there are days when some monasteries are closed, but several others are always open.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Many of the paths leading to the monasteries involve steep climbs and uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is essential.
- Remember that this is a monastery and that you should enter with your head and shoulders covered.
- Respect the silence: Be mindful of the peaceful atmosphere and refrain from loud conversations or disruptive behavior while visiting the monasteries.
How to get to the Meteora mountain monasteries in Greece.
How to get to the monasteries from Athens.
By train – train number 884 departs from Larissis station. The journey time is about five hours.
By bus – buses depart from Terminal B from 7:30 to 15:30. The journey time is 5 hours.
How to get to Meteora from Thessaloniki.
There is a direct train from Thessaloniki to Kalambaki. The journey time is 3 hours.
Once you get to Kalambaki, you need to find the Plateia Dimarhiou fountain. This is where the bus station will be located. From here, buses run to the village of Kastraki and then head towards the main temple.
By Air: If you’re traveling internationally, your journey will likely begin at one of Greece’s major airports, such as Athens International Airport or Thessaloniki Airport. From there, you can opt for a connecting flight to the nearby airports of Volos or Larisa.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Greece if you’re traveling from another country.
By Bus or Car: If you prefer flexibility and independence, renting a car or taking a bus from Athens or Thessaloniki to Kalambaka is a convenient option. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours by car and slightly longer by bus.
I highly recommend travelling around Greece with your own transport, as this is one of those counties where it’s easiest to get around by car! Especially since many of the sights are quite far from each other. Don’t have your own car? Why not rent one for a day or two? You can check prices and availability here.
Hotels near the mountain monasteries of Meteora in Greece.
For travelers seeking an unforgettable experience, staying in a nearby hotel that combines comfort with proximity to these wonders is essential. Here are some luxurious retreats near the Meteor monasteries that promise an indulgent stay while exploring this fascinating region:
Divani Meteora Hotel: Located in Kalambaka, just a stone’s throw away from the Meteor monasteries, Divani Meteora Hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and traditional charm. Guests can unwind in spacious rooms with panoramic views of the monasteries and the rugged landscape. The hotel features a spa and wellness center, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. With its excellent amenities and proximity to the monasteries, Divani Meteora Hotel provides a luxurious base for discovering this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Amalia Hotel Kalambaka: Situated amidst lush gardens overlooking the majestic rocks of Meteora, Amalia Hotel Kalambaka offers a tranquil retreat in close proximity to the monasteries. The hotel’s elegant rooms and suites provide a comfortable sanctuary, while its outdoor pool and terrace offer breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Guests can savor authentic Greek cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant or enjoy a cocktail at the bar. With its serene ambiance and convenient location, Amalia Hotel Kalambaka is the perfect choice for discerning travelers.
Dellas Boutique Hotel: Tucked away in the picturesque village of Kastraki, just below the Meteora rocks, Dellas Boutique Hotel offers a charming retreat surrounded by nature. The hotel’s cozy rooms and suites are elegantly furnished and boast stunning views of the monasteries. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s lush gardens or take a dip in the outdoor pool. With its intimate ambiance and personalized service, Dellas Boutique Hotel provides a tranquil oasis for travelers seeking a memorable stay near the Meteor monasteries.
A visit to the Meteora mountain monasteries is an unforgettable experience that combines history, spirituality, and natural beauty in equal measure. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient architecture, seeking spiritual enlightenment, or simply in awe of the stunning landscapes, Meteora has something to offer every traveler.
With this guide in hand, you’re ready to embark on an adventure unlike any other. Are you ready to explore the enchanting Meteora mountain monasteries?
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