Metéora is one of those exceptionally beautiful places in the world that doesn't look as though it is really or really of this world and not some alternate, fantasy universe. Yet, it very much is real and well worth a visit.
Metéora is a formation of immense monolithic naturally-occurring pillars and hill-like huge rounded boulders that dominate an area of Greece near Kalambaka.
Atop these pillars and stone mounds, are a cluster of extraordinary Eastern Orthodox monasteries and the effect is truly breathtaking and rather unbelievable. With the name meaning literally "middle of the sky", "suspended in the air" or "in the heavens above", this astounding complex of monasteries is, rightfully, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Metéora is a formation of immense monolithic naturally-occurring pillars and hill-like huge rounded boulders that dominate an area of Greece near Kalambaka.
Atop these pillars and stone mounds, are a cluster of extraordinary Eastern Orthodox monasteries and the effect is truly breathtaking and rather unbelievable. With the name meaning literally "middle of the sky", "suspended in the air" or "in the heavens above", this astounding complex of monasteries is, rightfully, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From early Christian times, the Metéora vertical cliffs were regarded as the perfect place for absolute isolation and the time and mental space to focus on spiritual elevation. Mostly dating to the 14th and until the 16th century, these monasteries were built by monks who had previously lived as hermits in individual caves in the area. They united and, amazingly, built these incredible buildings by themselves. Of an estimated original number of 24, just 6 survive to this day. While visiting these monasteries is still very much a pilgrimage, it is something that anyone can enjoy – no matter their creed or level of dedication – as they are utterly astounding.
The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro is the biggest and oldest one of all and was founded by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite in the 14th century. Boasting an incredible main cathedral in the central courtyard with beautiful 16th century frescoes, it is home to some of the best samples of Greek Byzantine art and an excellent museum.
The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro is the biggest and oldest one of all and was founded by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite in the 14th century. Boasting an incredible main cathedral in the central courtyard with beautiful 16th century frescoes, it is home to some of the best samples of Greek Byzantine art and an excellent museum.
The view that awaits you, alone, is worth the visit. The Holy Monastery of Varlaam, meanwhile, is the second biggest monastery and was founded in the mid 14th century by the exercitant Hosios Varlaam.
Each of the monasteries has something unique to offer and the whole place makes for one of the world's most unique and singularly lovely attractions. If you are visiting Greece and have an interest in architecture, art, history or ridiculously photogenic attractions, it is a must-see. Just find a vacation rental in Greece and make it a point to pay a visit.
Each of the monasteries has something unique to offer and the whole place makes for one of the world's most unique and singularly lovely attractions. If you are visiting Greece and have an interest in architecture, art, history or ridiculously photogenic attractions, it is a must-see. Just find a vacation rental in Greece and make it a point to pay a visit.
