# In Meteora, Monasteries Reach for the Skies

> Discover Meteora, a one of a kind corner of Greece where monasteries float atop towering rocks and adventure tourism waits just around the corner. Read more.

- URL: https://langandtrip.com.ua/en/article/u-meteori-monastyri-tiahnutsia-do-nebes/
- Language: en
- Published: 2024-11-07
- Categories: Hiking, Culture, Historic Sites, Mountains, Tours, Greece

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High above the landscape of Meteora, in central Greece, 60 monks and nuns live in legendary monasteries set on the edge of sandstone summits. In centuries past, their place of worship gave them solitude and protection from unwelcome intruders. Today, these Orthodox monasteries are one of the most popular destinations in all of Greece.

Just a few hours from Athens, on the fringe of the Thessalian plain, the small town of Kalambaka plays host to the striking clifftop landmarks of Meteora. Wind battered monoliths rise sharply from the ground, their vertical rock faces forming a dramatic backdrop against the flat fields all around. These picture perfect views have inspired countless films and television sets, including the kingdom of the Eyrie in HBO's "Game of Thrones."

## A Historic Site

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But beyond the monasteries and the mountains, Meteora is far more than a feast for the eyes. This little known area boasts one of the most fascinating histories in Europe, along with a wealth of thrilling outdoor activities. Just 4 kilometers from Kalambaka lies the Theopetra Cave, a stunning archaeological site that holds evidence of continuous human habitation for more than 130,000 years.

The transition from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens is recorded in the layers of soil, and near the cave entrance stands one of the oldest known man made structures in the world: a wall believed to be around 23,000 years old. It is a phenomenal landmark that, anywhere else in the world, would be reason enough to make the trip to the region. Yet this cave is often overshadowed by the even more impressive and breathtaking structures nearby.

## Suspended in the Air

In the 14th century, the great monk Athanasios Koinovitis led a group of devoted followers from Mount Athos to Meteora in search of a band of ascetic hermits who had established a religious stronghold in the region. He was captivated by the hermits' ability to climb the rocks freely, which allowed them to live in caves and crevices high above the ground, and he saw an opportunity to create a monastery where his flock could meditate and worship in peace. Using the hermits as climbing mentors, the newcomers conquered the surrounding mountains and set about building their own holy refuge. It was then, from 1356 to 1372, that the first Great Meteoron Monastery was born.

Meteora means "suspended in the air," and the way the religious home clung precariously to its forbidding summit quickly gave the name to the entire area. Years later, as the Turks advanced on northern Greece, more monks escaped persecution by climbing the mountains in search of safety. Over time, 24 monasteries were built, and the steep pillars offered protection from the warriors below. To lift the faithful and their supplies up to the monasteries, a network of ropes, pulleys, baskets, and ladders was used, all of which could be raised in moments of danger to cut off access to anyone who posed a threat. The method worked, and the Orthodox monks comfortably survived centuries of war and battle. Today, six of these monasteries remain active, divided between monks and nuns, and visitors are welcomed with typical Greek hospitality.

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## Adventure Tourism

Beyond the religious quarters, Meteora offers more than just scenic landscapes and lessons in ancient history. It has earned a reputation as the adventure capital of Greece. While most visitors opt for popular driving tours and walking trails, always with a focus on visiting the monasteries, more active travelers look for alternative ways to reach the heavens. These dramatic sandstone peaks have helped turn Meteora into a thriving hub for rock climbers from around the world. The routes range from bolted to traditional and suit everyone from absolute beginners to professional climbers.

Since many of the cliffs are reachable after a short walk from town, it is not unusual to see people hanging off the rocks right beneath the monasteries. For those looking for something different, an exhilarating via ferrata, or "iron road," leads to the top of Great Saint, the highest mountain in Meteora. A rocky trail winds up to the summit of the 400 meter peak, with climbing ropes and chains in place to make the ascent and descent safe.

In summer, rafting has become another worthy shot of adrenaline, and while it does not match the powerful rapids found in other parts of Europe, it is still an exciting pursuit. Mountain biking rounds out the list of popular activities, and for those traveling in winter, skiing and snowboarding are just a few hours from town. The local tour company Visit Meteora offers guided excursions and advice on the region, or experienced hikers and climbers can explore it on their own.

## A Year Round Destination

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In summer, huge crowds of tourists descend on the area, and the trails, hotels, and restaurants fill with a lively atmosphere. Kalambaka can feel packed with visitors. The neighboring village of Kastraki, however, offers a quieter and more intimate setting at the foot of the sandstone. The higher temperatures and long days are an obvious draw, but the mild climate actually means that winter can be the best time to visit Meteora. Without the summer crowds, it is easy to find the monasteries practically empty, and accommodation prices drop. This region of Greece has drawn pilgrims and adventure seekers for thousands of years, and with the rise of adventure tourism it continues to deliver both spiritual and physical thrills.

## Where to Stay

Some of the best hotels in the region include:

- Dellas Boutique Hotel, Meteora, Kalambaka \[Kastraki\] Trikala, Thessaly, Greece; +30 24320 78260
- Hotel Meteora at Kastraki, 2nd km Kalambakas - Ioanninon, Kalambaka, Greece; +30 24320 78180
- Doupiani House Hotel, Kastraki Meteora, Greece; +30 24320 75326
- Divani Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka, Greece; +30 24320 23330
- Guesthouse Lithos, Kastraki, Kalambaka, Greece