Meteora in Greece is a complex of Orthodox monasteries built on inaccessible cliff tops on the Thessalian plain. Losing their religious significance, the monasteries are becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction. How to get to Meteor by car or public transport, and what their opening hours are - read on.

Despite the fact that Meteora in Greece is still an Orthodox monastery, this does not mean that a trip here will be of interest to purely religious people. The whole unusual thing about this place is that the monasteries on top of the pillars began to be built back in the 14th century, despite the fact that the steps along the steep cliffs were laid no more than 100 years ago - before people they climbed here either by hanging stairs or by steep steps carved right into the rock. Building materials, as far as historians know, were even lifted up in wicker nets.

The rocks themselves are of great interest from a geological point of view - they were formed tens of millions of years ago, when the entire territory of today's plain was the bottom of the sea. In the Paleogene era (about 60 million years ago), after a series of earthquakes, the rocks were “squeezed out”, after which all this time until the present day they were destroyed due to water and wind erosion, which is what accounts for their impressive appearance today.

The place for the construction of the monasteries was not chosen by chance: back in the 10-11th century, religious hermits began to settle in the numerous rocks within the walls of the caves. True, why exactly in these rocks is not entirely clear. Nevertheless, this is how small communities, monasteries, and later large monasteries began to form.

Monasteries today

In total, during the heyday of the monastic commune, there were 24 monasteries, but over time many were abandoned, looted and destroyed. Some of them don’t even have ruins left that even slightly resemble their former buildings. What made matters worse was the fact that, due to paved roads and stone steps, the tops of the cliffs were no longer so inaccessible.

Today, out of the entire complex, there are only 6 monasteries - 2 for women and 4 for men. But the number of monks here, despite the fact that this is one of the largest centers Orthodox monasticism in Greece, is ridiculously small: in the once largest monastery - Megala Meteora - in 2016 only 3 (!) people lived.

That is why the entire monastery complex is irrevocably losing its religious value, and is increasingly becoming a tourist attraction.

Procedure for visiting monasteries

Anyone can visit the monasteries and look at the old architecture, frescoes, icons and other creations that the inhabitants of the monasteries left behind. Admission is free for Greeks and 3€ for citizens of other countries.

It is worth knowing that each monastery has its own work schedule, and the schedule differs in winter (from November 1 to March 31) and in summer (from April 1 to October 31):

• Transfiguration Monastery (Great Meteor or Megala Meteora) - from 9 to 16 in winter, from 9 to 17 in summer, closed on Tuesday and Wednesday in winter, on Wednesday in summer;
• Varlaam Monastery - from 9 to 16 all year round, closed on Thursday and Friday in winter, only on Friday in summer;
• Monastery of the Holy Trinity - from 10 to 16 in winter and from 9 to 17 in summer, closed on Wednesday and Thursday in winter, on Thursday in summer;
• Monastery of Rusanu (St. Barbara) - in winter from 9 to 14, in summer from 9 to 16, closed all year round on Wednesdays;
• St. Stephen's Monastery - in winter from 9:30 to 13 and from 15 to 17, in summer from 9 to 13 and from 15 to 17, closed all year round on Mondays;
• Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas - in winter from 9 to 14, in summer from 9 to 15:30, closed all year round on Fridays.

That is, you can go here any day - at least something will be open. The main thing is to make it before 5 pm.

Meteora in Greece – how to get there

To the city of Kalambaka

Let's start with the fact that the closest city to Meteora is Kalambaka, it is located right at the foot of the cliffs. 11 thousand people live in the city, the tourist infrastructure is quite well developed there - there are hostels, hotels, restaurants and cafes. There is a railway station in the center.

• Train Athens - Kalambaka - 350 km, you can get there by train in 5 hours and 14-23 €. There is only one direct train - in the morning at 08:30, all other options during the day - with a transfer;
• Train Thessaloniki – Kalambaka – 250 km, the train travels from 3 hours, the ticket costs from 11 to 19 €. The direct train runs only in the evenings at 16:15. This is the most convenient option if you are vacationing at any resort in Halkidiki - in any case, you will first have to go to the nearest Big City– Thessaloniki.

If you are traveling around Greece in a rented car, then you can easily reach this city using a navigator - there is no need to describe the entire route here.

To the monasteries themselves

The most interesting part is how to get from the city of Kalambaka to the monasteries themselves.

1. Bus. From Kalambaka, according to the summer schedule (from the beginning of April to the end of October), buses run daily at 9:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 16:00 (back - an hour later), passing the village of Kastraki. A one-way ticket costs about 2€. Detailed bus schedule.
2. Taxi. Taxi drivers are ready to take tourists to the monasteries; the cost of a trip from Kalambaka is about 10 €, from the village of Kastraki it will be a little cheaper.
3. By your car. Each monastery has a small parking lot, although there is a risk that the parking lot will be occupied by the aforementioned clumsy buses. In any case, before going to the monasteries, get a good navigator, since many tourists complain about the lack of clear signs to the monasteries on the roads.
4. On foot. From Kalambaka to the first monastery, walking 5 km is not much, but considering that the road goes uphill, the walk will bring little pleasure to an unprepared person. It would be a good idea to stop for the night in the village of Kastraki - it is located a little closer to the monasteries, and the nearest one can be reached on foot in just 10-15 minutes.

One of the most popular holiday destinations is Greece. This is the most visited country in Europe, it attracts tourists with its snow-white clean beaches, transparent sea, myths and legends. The entire territory of Greece is a unique museum, because every street, every house is filled with the spirit of eternity and antiquity. Even in the most ordinary village you can find some kind of architectural monument, ancient ruins and remains of a fortress. Greece, Meteora in particular, has a lot of wealth, temples store ancient frescoes, icons, manuscripts from the Middle Ages and much more.

Modern Hellas: reviews

The most best time May is considered the best time for a holiday in Greece, when there is no sultry heat yet, but you can already splash around in the warm sea. And the influx of tourists at this time is not very large.

The lands of Greece are located on islands in the Mediterranean Sea. The country's landscape is diverse - these are high mountain ranges, ridges with highest point the famous mountain of the gods - Olympus. The coastline is indented with a lace border, beautifully decorating the sea. Tourists claim that such extraordinary ornateness gives the country an indescribable charm and makes it unique in the Mediterranean region. Many people know that Meteora is Greece. Every resident knows where they are exactly - this is the most unique thing a natural phenomenon, which is closely intertwined with man-made creations.

Climate

The natural conditions of Greece are perfect for relaxation all year round. The climate in this area is subtropical, summers are always dry and hot, and winters usually fall a large number of precipitation. The weather is mostly sunny and clear throughout the year.

Travelers say that the most beautiful months are April and May, at which time all the numerous cities and villages are surrounded by lush greenery. During this period, it is best to travel to historical places, summer season You should give preference to relaxing on the beaches. The air, as a rule, warms up to +32 degrees, the temperature sea ​​water- from 27 to 29 degrees. On the islands, it will be much easier to endure the summer heat thanks to the breeze.

Sights of Greece: reviews

Are you going to see Meteora? Greece, whose photo is mesmerizing, is a country that is definitely worth visiting. People vacationing here say that even if you come every year, you still won’t have enough time to see all the sights of this country - absolutely everything here has its own legend, its own history.

If you are on holiday in Athens, you simply must see the Acropolis. You can walk through this museum for more than one hour, and what a stunning view the Acropolis offers to Athens! After all, this historical place is located at an altitude of 150 meters above sea level. Tourists are sure that visiting Athens and not visiting the Acropolis is simply unthinkable.

Parthenon

Right here, in the Athenian Acropolis, is the famous ancient Greek temple of the Parthenon, which was created in honor of the goddess Athena. The construction of this unique monument of antiquity dates back to four hundred and forty-seven BC. This accuracy was established thanks to marble tablets found during excavations.

The mythical temple is a rectangular structure decorated with columns. Once inside there was a twelve-meter statue of Athena, which was made of gold and ivory. Unfortunately, the monument has not survived to this day, and is known only from descriptions, but, nevertheless, it is worth visiting this sophisticated and unique temple.

Olympus: reviews

If you are in Greece, be sure to take a fabulous trip to Mount Olympus. This is a tourism center favorite place for the pilgrimage of climbers. Travelers claim that when approaching the mountain, the imagination draws mythical pictures - it seems that Zeus himself is watching you somewhere in the clouds. Having climbed to the top, you will find yourself in an audience with the God of Heaven.

Olympus awaits its tourists at any time of the year. If you decide to conquer the mountain during the warm season, you will be able to see stunning green landscapes. A couple more steps, and that’s it, the end of civilization, there is only nature around, which beckons and fascinates with its views.

Long vines, beautiful waterfalls, unusual plants, animals curiously examining their guests, mountain rivers surprise with their crystal clean water. Winter lovers active rest can safely take their equipment and go skiing to Olympus. There are several modern tourist bases here where you can stay and, if necessary, rent necessary equipment. Snow-covered slopes will give you an unforgettable vacation.

Meteora

The Meteora monasteries are a geological phenomenon. Greece is a country rich in significant places. This is one of the famous attractions, the eighth wonder of the world. The rocks appeared on the Greek mainland many millions of years ago, back when this territory was a sea.

The monasteries of Meteora (Greece) are located near Athens. This extraordinary complex is perched on the banks of the Pignos River and is the heart of Orthodoxy. Under influence natural conditions Here, mountain ranges gradually formed, as if frozen in the air.

Almost all tourists love Greece. Meteora has high cliffs, the average height of which is about three hundred meters, some reaching six hundred meters. Modern conquerors of mountain peaks do not risk climbing round steep mountain ranges, but if you raise your head and examine the tops of the rocks, you will notice that almost every stone pillar adorns a temple.

The first temples for which Greece is notable are Meteora (this is a whole monastic complex), dating back to the tenth century. Traces of the presence of the first person here date back to the records of the first millennium.

There are pillars with narrow winding paths leading to the top. Having conquered them, you can appreciate from above all the beauty of the valley and its picturesque landscapes. According to legends, it is known that the first hermit monks lived here in natural caves back in the ninth century.

Greece, Saint Meteora, deserves the attention of tourists. It is difficult to imagine the construction of these temples in such extreme conditions, how much work and effort was required for this. Even literally before the year one thousand nine hundred and twenty, outsiders were prohibited from entering the monasteries. Provisions and products were transferred to the monks by local residents using ropes.

The hermits took care of their territory and defended it in every possible way, but still they did not manage to save all the temples. Many were destroyed - out of twenty-four, six remained.

Church of St. Nicholas

The Monastery of St. Nicholas (Greece, Meteora) has a unique design, which houses stunning frescoes dating back to the sixteenth century. This small temple was founded back in the fourteenth century. To visit it, you need to overcome a relatively “convenient” staircase. The inside of the monastery was painted by the famous Greek monk, artist Theophanes of Crete.

The small area of ​​the occupied rock forced the monks to build the temple and its buildings (cells, utility rooms) on several levels, which created the impression of a labyrinth.

What to see in the “labyrinth”?

The first level is occupied by the chapel named after St. Anthony, where the crypt with various relics is located. Altar size - only four square meters, which allows only one monk to take a seat.

The second is occupied by the temple itself, which has no windows in the dome, since the next level begins there, in which the dining room, the crypt for the relics and the chapel of St. John are located.

If Greece has opened its arms to you, Meteora, local residents will tell you how to get to famous attractions. Tourists usually travel by train, bus or car. First you need to get from Athens to Kalambaki, and from here, from the station located next to the fountain, buses go to the village of Kastraki. They bring tourists to the walls of the main monastery - the Transfiguration of Christ.

Rules for visiting monasteries

If you decide to visit all six temples, you should keep in mind that this will not be possible to do in one day. You will have to stay in local hotels in the nearby towns of Kalambaki or Kastraki.

If you decide to travel to the temples on steep cliffs, you will not regret it, because this extraordinary landscape enchants its visitors. Meteora, Greece, has the most enthusiastic reviews from tourists, no one has yet remained indifferent.

The entrance fee to each monastery will cost you two euros. It should be remembered that filming videos and taking photos on the territory of temples is prohibited. But Meteora, Greece, receives only positive reviews.

There are also special requirements for appearance: to enter the temple, your clothes must cover your arms and legs; women are traditionally required to visit the sacred monastery with their heads covered, only in a skirt or dress; entry in trousers is strictly prohibited. In addition, shoes should also be closed.

Greece rightfully deserves praise. Meteors are a unique creation that makes you admire their power and beauty, fantastic incomprehensibility, and unreality.

Crete

If your vacation is planned on the island of Crete, then it will be interesting to visit one of the main attractions - the Samaria Gorge. It is located in the western part of the island and is the longest in Europe - its length is 18 kilometers.

Samaria Gorge is national park with rich flora and fauna. Here you can look at the most amazing, unique plants, marvel at exotic animals. Everything in this natural area is protected. Once you've been to the park, you won't be able to take even the smallest flower out of it.

It will take about eight hours to walk through the gorge - it all depends on the speed of your movement. The average time is about six hours, including stops for photographs against the backdrop of extraordinary nature. If you feel that you are not ready for such stress, tour operators can offer you a short route through this amazing place.

Holidays in Greece will be varied and interesting. You won't be bored; everything here is filled with myths, legends and history. Touch the world of antiquity and your journey will be simply incredible. Almost all travel lovers dream of seeing Meteora (Greece). Photos show all the beauty, but the landscapes seen in person evoke indescribable emotions.

Basic moments

The name "Meteora" comes from the word meteorizo, which means "floating in the air." This is the most accurate description appearance monasteries. When clouds of fog envelop the mountain slopes in the early morning, the buildings towering above them seem to float above the clouds. The heyday of the Meteora monasteries occurred at the end of the Middle Ages - at that time there were 24 monasteries and hermitages. Today, only 6 monasteries remain inhabited. Four of them are male: Great Meteor or Megalo Meteoro (Preobrazhensky), St. Varlaam, St. Nicholas Anapavsas and the Holy Trinity. Two monasteries - female: St. Stephen and Rusanu Monastery (or St. Barbara's Monastery). Although the remaining 18 monasteries lie in ruins, in some places hermits still live in them, wanting to preserve the cultural and spiritual heritage of Byzantium.

View of the Thessalian plain

The very first monasteries in the mountains appeared in the 11th century. Hermits fled from the bustle of the world in order to continue their service to the Lord without interference, and settled in simple mountain caves. As their numbers grew, the monks united into a monastic community, similar to the spiritual republic on Mount Athos.

Just a few hermits founded the very first monastery, Dupiani, now completely destroyed. Only a small chapel from the 13th century remains as a witness to their asceticism.

In 1334, the monk Athanasius arrived at the Meteora monasteries. With his arrival monastic life really began to flourish in the area. In 1370, he, together with 14 monks, climbed the highest rock and founded the monastery of the Great Meteor, also known as Metamorphosis (i.e. Transfiguration). Occupying an area of ​​approximately 60,000 sq. m, Meteora is one of the largest monastic complexes. According to legend, an eagle, or even an angel, carried Athanasius to the mountain peak. This monk first defined the rules of behavior that others were expected to follow, observing the laws of monastic life in Meteora. Over time, he and his followers founded several more monasteries around.

Today, only 6 of the 24 monasteries are inhabited. In the monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas, in the chapel of John the Baptist, the skulls of all the monks who ever lived in this monastery are stored on shelves in even rows. The walls of the cathedral are decorated with frescoes by Feofan Strelidzas (c. 1500-1559), an outstanding icon painter of the Cretan school - a group of artists that included the famous El Greco. Monastery of Saint Rusanu (or St. Barbara's Monastery) was founded in 1388. Reconsecrated in 1950, it was more often than others subjected to looting and desecration. His frescoes of the 16th century. are incomparable masterpieces. The monastery of St. Varlaam was built from 1518 to 1535, and in the travel diary of 1779 it is mentioned as a monastery for women.

The Great Meteor, the largest complex, was named so by its founder Athanasius in honor of the massive stone pillars that seemed to hang in the air, called Meteora. Until 1923, when roads were built to the monasteries and 143 stone steps were made to climb, monks and visitors could only enter the monasteries by hanging stairs or with the help of monks who lifted them in special nets. In the same way, all the building materials for the construction of monastic buildings, as well as food and other things necessary for monastic life, were raised to the top of the rocks.

With the exception of Agios Stefanos (St. Stephen), quite easily accessible, you can get to the monasteries by climbing steep stone stairs, sometimes numbering over a hundred steps. The monks are accustomed to visitors, but wanting to preserve the sacred character of these places, they require an appropriate appearance. Men, women and children must have their arms covered, at least to the elbows; Pants are required for men and long skirts for women.

Kalambaka

At the foot of the very cliffs where the Meteora monasteries were built, the highest of which reach 300 m, is the city of Kalambaka. After World War II it underwent large-scale reconstruction. It is worth visiting the city cathedral, the construction of which was partially made using materials from ancient buildings. You can see frescoes from the 16th century and an amazing marble pulpit - in fact, it is a pulpit, dating back, like the canopy, to the early Christian era.

The village of Kastraki, located two kilometers from the city, surrounded by vineyards, is also worthy of your attention.

Behind Kastraki, on the left side of the road, is one of the smallest monasteries of Meteora. The same tiny church is decorated with delightful frescoes of the early 16th century by Theophrastus of Crete, who also worked on Mount Athos. Last Judgment, written on the partition between the narthex and the choir, makes an indelible impression. From here, in about an hour and a half, you can walk to the Varlaam Monastery.

Also very small, this monastery (XVI century) huddles on a narrow rock, accessible by a suspension bridge. The location of the monastery is its highlight: the backdrop is an incredible ensemble of rocks carved by water, winds and temperature changes. It is always popular among mountaineering enthusiasts.

A short time later the road forks. The left one leads to the 16th-century Varlaam Monastery, built on a narrow platform on top of a cliff. Having walked all 130 steps and stepped through the threshold, you will find yourself in a sun-drenched church courtyard. Inside, be sure to look at the painting depicting the saint grieving over the vanity of this world in front of the skeleton of Alexander the Great. The amazing fresco of the Last Judgment on the wall opposite the choir deserves special attention. Visitors can also tour the basement and the room where the press is installed, as well as look at the operation of the lift.

At the same height as Varlaam is the Great Meteor, also called the Transfiguration Monastery, founded by the very first in the middle of the 14th century on the highest rock. To get to it, you need to go down 106 steps, then go up 192... Despite frequent destruction, the Great Meteor has preserved priceless evidence of Byzantine art, in particular the embroidered robes of priests and severe frescoes. The Church of the Transfiguration is famous for its wooden iconostasis. Nearby you can see the old dining room, kitchen, many rooms where various classes were held, and an ossuary with the skulls of deceased monks. The balcony offers a stunning view of the Varlaam complex.

Monastery of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity)

One of the most rarely visited and most secluded, the monastery of Agia Triada (The Holy Trinity) built on top of a huge rock, which from a distance appears to be floating in the air. Although part of it was built in the 15th century, it lacks unity due to the modern buildings attached.

Monastery of Agios Stefanos (St. Stephen)

The last monastery you'll discover is also the most easily accessible, thanks to a pedestrian bridge that connects it to the road. This place is famous for its views of Kalambaka and the Thessalian plain. The former dining room has been converted into a museum, the most complete in Meteora, where icons, religious objects, painted manuscripts and embroideries are exhibited. The only church was built only in the 18th century.

On the territory of the monastery of Agios Stefanos

Climbing monks

No one knows exactly how the first monks managed to climb the Meteora rocks. Incredible fairy tales make the imagination imagine huge paper kites, ropes tied to the paws of a hawk, the construction of forests, giant trees- everything with the help of which the ascent could be achieved... It is possible that once upon a time shepherds and hunters suggested to the monks the paths known to them alone. They soon began to use a rope ladder, which was later replaced by a net or some kind of basket, tied with a rope and lifted with a winch. It took about half an hour to reach the highest cliffs. If you believe the records of travelers of old, the rope was changed only after the old one broke! These structures can still be seen, now powered by an electric lift. Today they are designed for cargo, and visitors prefer to climb on foot.

Mesmerizing cliffs of Meteora monasteries

Chronology

• 11th century: The first hermits settled in mountain caves.
• OK. 1370: Monk Athanasius founded Megalo Meteoro.
• 1939-1945: Bombing during World War II takes a heavy toll on the monasteries.
• Since 1972: Reconstruction of all functional monasteries continues.
• 1988: The Meteora Monasteries are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The largest monastic complex in Greece, consisting of six Orthodox monasteries, was formed in the tenth century on the tops of six-hundred-meter cliffs located on the Thessalian plain. Formed more than sixty million years ago, the stone pillars gave it not only a unique appearance, but also a name - “Meteors”, that is, “floating in the air”.

The mountains of Thessaly were the first to be explored by lonely hermits. They huddled in caves and rock holes and prayed in small areas called “prayer places.” Over time, monasteries began to appear here and there, allowing monks to perform both private prayers and public worship, as well as those necessary for any Orthodox man church sacraments– and, above all, the sacrament of Communion.

The monastery complex flourished in the 16th century. By this time, twenty-four Orthodox monasteries operated in the mountains of Thessaly. Over time, many of them fell into disrepair: some of them turned into ruins, some completely disappeared from the face of the earth. Today, there are only six “meteors” operating in northern Greece: four male and two female.

In the twenties of the last century, stone roads and steps were laid to them. Until this time, it was possible to get to the “floating in the air” monasteries either through hanging wooden structures, or with the help of monks lifting their visitors up with special nets.

In 1988, Meteora was added to the list. Today they are a popular tourist attraction.

Meteora Monasteries - PHOTO

Founded in 1340 by Athanasius of Meteora monastery The Transfiguration of the Lord is the largest and most highly located of all the Greek “meteors”. Transfiguration Monastery contains significant amount valuable icons and ancient manuscripts. Its main cathedral reproduces the cruciform shape of the Athos temples. The monastery complex consists of residential buildings, a house for old monks, a kitchen, a refectory and a hospital. In the rock adjacent to the entrance there is a small chapel and a crypt.

The Monastery of Varlaam - also known as the Monastery of All Saints - was formed at the beginning of the 16th century on the basis of a small temple built by the monk Varlaam and dedicated to the Three Hierarchs Orthodox Church. The founders of the monastery - brothers Nektariy and Feofan - today rest in the south-eastern part of the main building. Built from tuff, the Cathedral of All Saints has a cruciform nave and a unique fresco painting, divided into four zones and written by the schema-monk Ephraim of Syria and the painter Franco Catelano.

The exact time of the appearance of the monastery of St. Barbara and the origin of its name are unknown. It is believed that the complex was founded at the end of the 13th century by a certain Rusanos, but there is no exact confirmation of this fact. The monastery's katholikon (main church), which has survived to this day, was restored in the Byzantine style already in the 16th century. The Cathedral of St. Barbara is decorated with frescoes from the heyday of the “Cretan School”. It has a wooden carved iconostasis, generously covered with gilding. The monastery is open to visitors every day except Wednesdays (in winter).

The first written evidence about the monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas dates back to the end of the 14th century. Its founder is considered to be the monk Nikanor, who bore the surname Anapavsas, that is, “The Calmer.” Main temple The complex, which has a rectangular shape and is completely devoid of windows, is dedicated to St. Nicholas. Below it is a small church of St. Antonia. Above the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, on the third level of the rock there is a small church of John the Baptist, monastic cells, the old refectory and crypt with the skulls of monks.

The richest of the "Meteors" - the monastery of St. Stephen - towers over the city of Kalambaka. The majestic structure grew out of a small chapel of the same name, built on a rock by the hermit Jeremiah and his companions at the end of the 12th century. Today the monastery of St. Stephen has two main cathedrals - the Old, decorated with earthy-red figurative compositions, and the New, dedicated to St. Charalampia. The monastery contains a rich collection of portable icons and conducts educational activities in the field of Byzantine music and the art of iconography.

The Monastery of the Holy Trinity stands on a four-hundred-meter cliff overlooking the Pignos River, with a backdrop of forested mountains. Founded in the mid-15th century, the complex consists of the Church of John the Baptist carved into the rock and the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, made in the Byzantine style. The monastic catholicon is decorated with frescoes depicting Old Testament prophets, evangelists, sacred scenes from the New Testament, the Mother of God, Jesus Christ, angels and archangels. The main value of the monastery is the ancient Venetian “Gospel” of the 16th century.

The wide Thessalian plain is the grain granary of Greece. Where the valley begins at the foot of the mountains, you can see a unique geological phenomenon. Stone cliffs up to 600 meters high. Meteor rocks, bizarre stone columns, the shape of which was created by water and wind. Forest of stone pillars.

River sediments, compressed into rocks over millions of years, washed by rains, polished by winds, remained standing as if contrary to all the laws of existence. The cherished dream of many climbers. Loneliness.

Weathering processes have left caves in the rocks - shelters for animals and people. Since the 9th century, it is assumed that they were also used as a place of residence. At the dawn of Christianity, some men and women left worldly life to completely surrender to faith, to seek God in solitude, abandoning all worldly pleasures.

I have never seen anything like this amazing place either in Greece or in other countries. The Meteora Monasteries are a place where Nature has invested power and beauty, and people, enjoying the generous gift, strengthen the power of their spirit.

A meteor is a ridge of tall rocks shaped like fingers pointing to the sky. Numerous photographs, even very beautiful ones, do not convey all the beauty and grandeur of this place. When viewed from the ground, the size and shape of the mountains are striking.

On inaccessible rocks one can see amazing creations of human hands, or rather, of the spirit. These are monasteries. Now you can climb them along the road. By car, sightseeing bus or on foot. And once upon a time the monks went up to their cells as the only possible way- along the rope.

Using a rope and a net, they lifted stones, beams, and building materials. For decades, they painstakingly and diligently built fortifications, strengthening their spirit. You should definitely visit the monasteries on Mount Meteora!

1. Firstly, the Meteora monasteries and staircases carved into the rocks, all this centuries-old work changes the idea of ​​​​monks and monasticism in general.
2. Secondly, the place imbues those who are there with strength.
3. Thirdly, it is incredibly beautiful. From the mountains, from the monasteries, there is a stunning view of the Thessalian plain.

39.709440 , 21.639150

39.713040 , 21.635607

Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas: 39.723849, 21.624752

Varlaam Monastery: 39.725046, 21.630085

Monastery of Rusanu or Monastery of St. Barbara: 39.721679, 21.632069

Great Meteor Monastery (Transfiguration): 39.726453, 21.626544

And this is the Meteor 2 map with paths, campsites, and a train station.

In the previous article, we talked about a budget travel option, when you can not rent a hotel, but stay in a hotel.

On this map you can see campsites - Meteora has a variety of opportunities for tourists. We stayed at the hotel Odysseon, conveniently located, inexpensive, clean. Near which one of the roads and paths leading to the monasteries begins.

Friends, we are now on Telegram: our channel about Europe, our channel about Asia. Welcome)

Active monasteries of Meteora

One of the largest monastic complexes in Greece, famous primarily for its unique location on the tops of the cliffs.

On sheer cliffs, 600-800 meters high, formed more than 60 million years ago on the flat surface of the Thessalian plain, as a result of the influence of water, wind and temperature changes, the resulting stone pillars seemed to be suspended in the air, for which they received the name Meteora (from Greek μετέωρα - “floating in the air”), in the 10th century, strong-willed hermits founded monasteries to lead a spiritual life, detached from worldly concerns.

There were a total of 24 such monasteries, isolated from secular settlements.
There are currently 6 active ones left.

4 men's monasteries: Great Meteor (Transfiguration), Varlaam, St. Nicholas Anapavsas, Holy Trinity monasteries.
2 - women's monasteries: Rusanu monastery or the monastery of St. Barbara, St. Stephen.

Other monasteries that existed turned into ruins, and some completely disappeared from the face of the Earth.
All monasteries were isolated from outside world, communicating with him only when necessary, then hanging a suspended ladder (for lifting building materials, food) or along a special grid to move the monks themselves, if necessary.

Meteors amaze with their beauty, influence the powerful energy of prayerful, holy places and reflect through their incarnation the strength of people leading the spiritual path.

In this slideshow you can see photos of the Meteora monasteries:

Monastery of the Holy Trinity on Meteora

The rock on which the Holy Trinity Monastery stands (Greek: Μονή Αγίας Τριάδος) represents the most impressive view of Meteora: a cliff 400 meters high, at the foot in the depths lies the bed of the Pignos River, and above it are the peaks of the forested Pindos mountain range.

There is no exact information about the foundation of the monastery; it was built somewhere between 1458 and 1476.
In 1925, under Abbot Nikandra, 140 steps were cut into the rock, which, following the path at the foot of the rock, lead to the monastery.

Monastery of Rusanu (St. Barbara)

Monastery of Rusanu (St. Barbara)

The time of creation of the monastery of Rusan (Greek: Μονή Ρουσάνου) or Arsani (Greek: Αρσάνη) and the origin of its name are not known for certain. According to one version, the founder of the monastery was a certain Rusanos, a native of the town of Rosana. According to other unconfirmed sources, the monastery was founded in 1288 by hieromonks Nicodemus and Benidikt.

In 1940, the monastery fell into decay and lost its inhabitants. Since 1950, for 20 years, Elder Eusevia from the neighboring village of Kastraki single-handedly preserved the three-story building of the monastery, which currently, in a renewed form, operates as a convent, which received its second name in honor of St. Barbara.

Inner courtyard at Rusanu Monastery

Monastery of Varlaam (All Saints)

Monastery of Varlaam (Greek: Μονή Βαρλαάμ) or All Saints (Greek: Αγίων Πάντων).

In the middle of the 14th century, the schema-monk Varlaam climbed the rock and erected several cells and a small church, which he dedicated to the Three Saints. There he lived until the end of his days in complete solitude. After his death, all the premises remained uninhabited for many years.

In 1518, two brothers, monks Nektarios and Theophanes, who came from the noble Apsarades family from the city of Ioannina, who had previously lived for seven years on the pillar of the Forerunner in the Transfiguration Monastery (Great Meteor) climbed the rock with the sole purpose of restoring the Church of the Three Saints, which had turned into ruins, built by Varlaam. However, after the restoration of the church, the brothers remained on the rock and were gradually joined by other monks, whose number reached 30 by the middle of the 16th century.

The Monastery of St. Stephen (Greek: Αγίου Στεφάνου) is the richest of the Meteora monasteries. It is located on a huge rock overlooking the town of Kalambaka. The entrance to the monastery is most accessible and is via a single pedestrian bridge 8 meters long.

On the stone arch above the entrance to the monastery, until 1927, a slab with the inscription “6770” remained walled up. Jeremiah,” which means that a certain hermit named Jeremiah lived on this rock already in 6770 from the creation of the world, that is, in 1192 from the birth of Christ. Presumably, this hermit and other monks built several cells here, a cistern to collect rainwater, and built a small chapel of St. Stephen. The foundation of the monastery itself dates back to the end of the 14th century. It was built by Anatoly Katakouzinos and Philotheus of Siatinsky, whose images are depicted in a small church on the territory of the monastery.

IN late XIX century, the monastery was inhabited by 31 monks, but by 1960 it was almost empty and in 1961 it was converted into a women's monastery, and today it is thriving.

Monastery of St. Stephen. Sadik

The monastery refectory is used for the display of monastic relics, the most valuable of which include: a paten with a chalice (1631); many portable icons of the 17th-18th centuries; manuscript Divine Liturgy 1404, written by one of the founders of the monastery.

Monastery of St. Nicholas

Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas (Greek του Αγίου Νικολάου Αναπαυσά), also called Joyful (Greek Άσμενος). The exact time when the monastery was founded is unknown; presumably, the first monks appeared on this rock in XII-XIII centuries. The founding of the monastery is attributed to the monk Nikanor, who had the surname Anapavsas (Αναπαυσάς), which was included in the name of the monastery. However, it is possible that the epithet Αναπαυσάς (sedative) is associated with the monastery itself as a place that gives mental and physical peace to the monks and guests of the monastery.

Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas

The small area of ​​the rock on which the monastery is located forced the monks to place temples, cells and outbuildings on several levels, which creates the impression of a labyrinth.

Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord (Great Meteor)

Athanasius, later Saint Athanasius of Meteora, had a single goal - the creation of a well-organized monastery in the likeness of those at Athos. In 1334, he gathered 14 monks from the nearby area and climbed the “Platis Litos” (wide stone) - a giant rock 613 meters above sea level, 413 above the level of the town of Kalambaka, starting a truly titanic task for that era - the construction of the first structures of the later famous Monastery "Great Meteor". This monk was the first to define the rules of behavior that the monks had to follow, observing the laws of monastic life in Meteora. It is believed that it was Athanasius who gave these rocks the name “Meteora”.

The Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord (Greek: της Μεταμόρφωσης του Σωτήρος), also known as the Great Meteor (Greek: Μεγάλο Μετέωρο) is located at the highest (613 meters) and largest in rock area (6 hectares). Founded by Athanasius of Meteora around 1340.

The temple contains a large number of valuable icons from the 14th-16th centuries, and in the former refectory there is a museum of monastery treasures. Among the treasures of the monastery, the following stand out: the oldest Greek manuscript from 861; a double-leaf icon of the Mother of God, contribution of Maria Palaeologus, sister of one of the founders of the monastery; part of the Golden Bull with the signature of Emperor Andronikos Palaiologos; a fully embroidered shroud from the 14th century; four icons of the 16th century: the Nativity of Christ, the Crucifixion of Christ, the Passion of Christ, Our Lady of Sorrows.

At the entrance to the monastery there is a dilapidated monastery of St. Athanasius. This is a small building lost in the rock. There, the founder of the monastery lived in a cave, and behind the entrance there is a small chapel and a crypt.

To make the ascent to the monastery safer, steps were cut into the rock in 1922, but the net is still used to lift provisions and other items necessary for the life of the monastery.

The Meteora monasteries are open to tourists, but pay attention to the schedule: you won’t be able to visit all the monasteries in one day, because... Their visiting schedules are different.
And I don’t recommend going to Meteora for one day. It's worth staying here for at least 3 days. There are museums in the monasteries that are worth visiting.

Also regarding the schedule: in the book of Meteora, which is sold in monasteries and shops, the following schedule is indicated:

Schedule of Meteora monasteries for visiting tourists

All monasteries are open until 18:00, but other information can be seen on the roads:

In any case, you need to go or drive to the mountains in the morning. We got to the monasteries by car.

How to get to the Meteora monasteries

Possible with a tour. From almost any tourist city There is an excursion to Meteora.
Possibly with a group from Russia. Pilgrimage tourism.

You can do it yourself. We traveled on our own, so we were able to walk around the town at the foot of Meteora, get acquainted with the local cuisine, and learn a little about the habits and character of the local residents.

One evening we went into a tavern. Hanging there musical instrument, apparently a bouzouki. I didn’t see him live and didn’t hold him in my hands. I was wondering what it sounds like. We spoke in sign language with the owner.

As a result, I accompanied the tavern owner on guitar, and he performed intricate passages on bouzouki, playing, of course, sirtaki. Galya and several local residents danced the famous dance. Moreover, Galka did not fall face down in the dirt! She was able to organize a small choreographic group from local residents. In such a cheerful lineup they danced all 26 verses of the dance.

After this spontaneous celebration, the owner and other guests began to bring us jugs of local wine one after another. There were a lot of jugs - the Greeks are generous and hospitable hosts, but, alas, I had to disappoint them. That's it - we wouldn't drink)))

We love traveling on our own precisely for such pleasant opportunities: managing our time, communicating, observing. Those who come to Meteora on a one-day excursion do not have such opportunities.

Blog readers asked us questions in letters about how to get to Meteora on their own, without a car. Friends, in the summer in Greece it is very, very hot... I can’t imagine how to travel there without a car. Of course, it is possible to get there, but it will be long, tiring and inconvenient. We are for comfortable travel.

If you want to get to Meteora by public transport and you have studied how to do this conveniently, we ask you to tell us about your experience!

And we leave this amazing place - the Meteora monasteries and move on. K v. Where the soothsayers and priests, with the help of their prophecies, ruled the entire ancient world for many centuries.