Hello friends! Just recently I told you about the existence of the eighth wonder of the world -.

This place is amazing and even a little magical. Giant inaccessible rocks, decorated with monastery caps, literally float in the air. It’s hard to believe in the existence of such unearthly beauty until you find yourself there.

Therefore, today I propose to continue the topic of getting to know the monastery complex. In the post you will learn about how to get to the Greek monasteries of Meteora, as well as the rules for visiting the holy monasteries.

There are two ways to get to the Meteor monasteries: on your own, using public transport, or as part of an excursion.

By public transport

If you decide to visit the monasteries on your own, then you will first need to get to the town of Kalambaki, located right at the foot of the monastery complex.

From Athens

You can get to Kalambaka from the capital of the country, Athens, by train or bus, and trains run both direct and with transfers in Paleofarsalos. It is cheaper to buy tickets for direct trains and in both directions at once. On the official website of the railways, tickets are cheaper than at the station ticket office. You should also understand that tickets for class A carriages are more expensive than for class B carriages due to the increased level of comfort.

The train to Kalambaka from Athens departs from Larissa station (the metro station of the same name (red line) is located right next to the station). Direct flight number 884 towards Meteor and 885 – back. Ticket prices start from 14 euros per person one way.

You can also get to Kalambaka from Athens by bus. It departs from Lyosion bus station (Kato Patissia metro stop - green line), from Terminal B. The bus departs every 2 hours from 7:30 to 15:30 with a change in Trikala. Ticket prices can be found on the official website of the KTEL Trikala bus line. Just like the train, round trip tickets are cheaper.

If you decide to rent a car and drive on your own, then you should go towards Lamia, then to Domokos, Karditsa, Trikala and Kalambaka. This journey will take about 4 hours. The distance from Athens to Kalambaka is 350 km. However, it should be remembered that there are very few signs along the entire route. If you are going to Meteora for the first time, it is better to take care of an accompanying person.

From Thessaloniki

Kalambaka can also be reached from Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. Trains depart from the only railway station in the city. You can get there from Macedonia Airport by bus following route No. 78. Direct train No. 591 departs at 16:17 from Thessaloniki and arrives at its destination 3 hours later. The return flight (No. 590) departs at 8:19 from Kalambaka. So with this option, expect to spend 2 nights in Kalambaka. The cost of moving starts from 12 euros. You can also choose an option with a transfer in Paleofarsalos.

From Thessaloniki you can also get to the Meteora monasteries by bus. You will also have to go through Trikala. Current prices and bus schedules can be found on the official website of KTEL Trikala.

You will have to drive a rented car along the toll highway Thessaloniki – Athens (E75). Drive towards Katerini (on the right), then along the Olympic Ridge (on the left). In the Larisa area, turn onto Trikala (E92 highway) and then onto Kalambaka.

In Kalambaka you should find a bus stop near the Plateia Dimarhiou fountain. It is from here that buses depart twice a day to the village of Kastraki, and then to the walls of the Great Meteor monastery. On weekends they depart at 8:20 and 13:20, on weekdays at 9:00 and 13:30. Right next to the fountain you can catch a taxi that will take you to any of the six monasteries.

When visiting the monasteries on your own, you will probably need accommodation in Kalambaka. You can select a suitable hotel in the form below.

Book an excursion

If the entire route described above seems too difficult for you, you can resort to the help of local guides. Departure is possible as part of tourist group, and individually. For example, from Thessaloniki offers individual excursions

What should you remember when visiting Meteora monasteries?

Meteora, like any religious place, requires visitors to adhere to certain rules of behavior. You cannot talk or joke loudly on the territory of the monasteries. To visit monasteries, you should choose appropriate clothing. For a woman, this must be a dress or skirt below the knee and covered shoulders; for men, it must be trousers and covered shoulders. Visiting the monastery in shorts and a T-shirt is not allowed. If you look inappropriate, at the entrance you will be asked to put on a skirt and cover your shoulders with a scarf. There are no requirements for women to cover their heads in Greek monasteries and temples.

When planning to visit monasteries, you should also take care of comfortable shoes. Numerous treks along mountain paths and climbing stairs will be much more comfortable if you have sports sneakers than beach flip-flops.

It is also worth remembering that photography is prohibited inside churches and cathedrals. Monasteries and temples can only be photographed from the outside.

Do not forget that, as in any holy place, the doors are not always open for tourists. There are days and times when the brethren of the monastery gather for prayer. At this time, the monasteries are closed to visitors.

Below you can find the work schedule of the monasteries. It may change, so it is better to call and check whether the monastery will be open at the specified time. Entrance to the territory of the monasteries for foreign citizens is paid and amounts to 3 euros.

Monastery	Working hours	Day off	Telephone
St. Stephen's	9.30-13.30, 15.30-17.30	Monday	2432-022279
	9.00-17.00	Tuesday	2432-022278
Rusanu (St. Barbara)	9.00-17.00	Wednesday	2432-022649
Holy Trinity	9.00-17.00	Thursday	2432-022220
Saint Varlaam	9.00-16.00	Friday	2432-022277
St. Nicholas Anapavsas	9.00-15.30	Friday	2432-022375

Monastery	Working hours	Day off	Telephone
St. Stephen's	9.30-13.00, 15.30-17.00	Monday	2432-022279
Great Meteor (Preobrazhensky)	9.00-16.00	Tuesday Wednesday	2432-022278
Rusanu (St. Barbara)	9.00-14.00	Wednesday	2432-022649
Holy Trinity	9.00-16.00	Wednesday Thursday	2432-022220
Saint Varlaam	9.00-15.00	Thursday Friday	2432-022277
St. Nicholas Anapavsas	9.00-14.00	Friday	2432-022375

You may also find a map of the forest paths between the Meteor monasteries and the town of Kalambaka useful. Many of these forest paths are very comfortable for hiking. Birds are singing everywhere, forests, fresh air.

Don't miss the opportunity to climb up to the observation decks on the way to the Great Meteor Monastery. The views that nature will reward you with are simply mesmerizing!

Monasteries "Great Meteor" and St. Varlaam

That's all for now! I hope this review will help you make your visit to the Greek monasteries of Meteor pleasant and comfortable. When planning a vacation in Greece, be sure to include this in your list of interests Holy place. Believe me, you will never regret visiting here. It is impossible to believe in existence until you see them.

The Meteora monasteries are among the most striking attractions in Greece. This place got its name from the Greek. "Meteora" (Μετέωρα), which literally means "hanging in the air", which perfectly describes these six wonderful Greek Orthodox monasteries.

Story

The sandy peak was first explored by Byzantine hermits in the 11th century, who climbed to the top of the rock to be alone with God. The present monasteries were built in the 14th and 15th centuries, during times of instability and the revival of hermitic ideals.

The grandeur of this place and its natural safety from the invasions of robbers and bandits allowed the creation over time of a large organized monastic community with many monasteries, which grew and strengthened with the help of numerous gifts and contributions. The first monasteries of Great Meteora (Μεγάλου Μετεώρου) appeared in 1340 and by 1500 their number had grown to 24. They flourished until the 17th century, but only 6 of them survive to this day.

Reminder for tourists

The nearest large settlement, Kalambaka (from the Turkish “peak”), located at the foot of Meteora, has all the necessary conditions to receive guests for the night. Alternatively, a day tour from Thessaloniki or Athens is a popular and easy way to visit these places.

Distance from Kalambaka to major cities Greece:

• Athens - 352 km
• Thessaloniki - 237 km
• Volos - 142 km
• Patras - 219 km
• Ioannina - 172 km

There are many in Kalambaka interesting places and attractions, including the following:

1. Byzantine Temple of the Assumption Holy Mother of God erected in the 10th century on the site of an ancient Christian basilica
2. Prehistoric cave Theopetra (Theopetra), in which the world's oldest man-made wall was found
3. Natural History Museum and Mushroom Museum
4. Center for Digital Projection of History and Culture Meteor
5. Museum of Greek Education
6. Museum of the Geological Formation Meteor in Kastraki

As for the monasteries, in order to visit all 6 in one day without much rush, it is recommended to start with the monastery of St. Nicholas (Agiou Nikolaou Anapavsa), Varlaam and the Great Meteor (Megalo Meteoro), before lunch break (from 13:00), when the monasteries are closed to visitors. Then, head to Roussana, the monastery of the Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) and St. Stephen (Agiou Stefanou) after lunch.

All monasteries have a strict dress code: shoulders must be covered, men must wear long trousers and women must wear long skirts.

Information

• Visiting time:
• Closed: Tuesday (winter, summer) Wednesday (winter)
• Telephone: (+30) 2432 022-278

• Visiting time: in winter - from 9:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 17:00 | in summer - from 9:00 to 13:00 and from 15:20 to 18:00
• Closed: Thursday (winter), Friday (winter, summer)
• Telephone: (+30) 2432 022-277

In the north of Greece, near the towns of Kastraki and Kalambaka, in the amazingly shaped mountains of Thessaly, there is a mountainous “monastic country” - Holy Meteora. This is a special place where God's grace and the greatness of the ascetic spirit are in incomprehensible harmony with the beauty of natural creation.

Content:

Short description

All 6 active Orthodox monasteries of Meteora are located on the tops of the rocks, frozen between heaven and earth. The stone giants, reaching 600 meters in height, represent a unique geological phenomenon. Finding yourself among the bizarre vertical pillars with caves and forested peaks resembling giant stalagmites or huge stone fingers, every traveler asks the question: how could nature create this?

From left to right: Varlaam Monastery, Rusanu Monastery

And the scientists’ answer is this: the Meteora rocks were formed on the site of a dry river valley. About 60 million years ago, a deep, turbulent river flowed here, flowing into a prehistoric sea.

Under the influence of geological shifts 30 million years ago, the river waters disappeared, exposing the Thessalian plain and the rocks of the river delta. Water and wind erosion completed the creation of massive stone sculptures called Meteora, which in Greek means “hanging in the air.”

View of the rocks on which the monasteries are located

History of the “monastic kingdom” of Meteora

The history of the “monastic country” of Meteora begins in the 10th century, when hermits settled in caves and rocky recesses. In 950-970 a certain Barnabas founded the oldest monastery of the Holy Spirit here. The flow of ascetics to these lands increased in the 14th century, when Thessaly was subject to frequent attacks by the Turks, who completely conquered it by 1393. Fleeing from the Ottomans, hermits from scattered Greek communities fled to Meteora.

They were joined by two monks from the monastery on Holy Mount Athos - Elder Gregory and Venerable Athanasius of Meteora. Athanasius’s goal was to transform Meteora into an organized “monastic state” in the likeness of the Athos monastery.

Monastery of Rusanu or St. Barbara

Together with 14 monks, he climbed the huge rock Platis Litos, 613 meters high, and built the first “floating in the air” monastery - Great Meteor. In the 15th-16th centuries, during its heyday, the “monastic state” consisted of 24 monasteries, each of which had monasteries, churches, refectories, cellars, reservoirs for collecting rainwater, ossuaries - urns for burying remains. And some monasteries also had libraries with a rich collection of handwritten and printed books. Today, only 6 monasteries are functioning.

Active monasteries of Meteora

Great Meteor or the Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord is the most ancient of the Meteora complexes. Post-Byzantine buildings, medieval frescoes and valuable icons of the 14th-16th centuries create a complete picture of the life of the ancient monastic monastery.

In Big Meteora there is a museum of monastic relics, where the oldest manuscript in Greece, dating back to 861, is kept. The Varlaam Monastery got its name from the recluse Varlaam, who built a small church here in 1350. He lived on the rock in complete solitude until the end of his days. After the death of Varlaam, no one climbed here for almost two hundred years.

In 1518, the brothers Nektaria and Theophanes Apsara climbed to the top, restored the old Varlaam temple and erected a new one - the Cathedral of All Saints. It is notable for its ancient frescoes, mosaics from Ivory and mother-of-pearl and post-Byzantine icons. The Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas was supposedly founded in the 12th-13th centuries. Due to the small area of ​​the rock, its churches, monasteries, crypt and refectory are located on several levels, which creates the illusion of a labyrinth. The main pride of the monastery are the frescoes of the outstanding icon painter Theophan of Crete, decorating the walls of the Cathedral of St. Nicholas.

Preobra convent

The Monastery of the Holy Trinity (XV century) is famous for its stunning views. It rises on a 400-meter cliff covered with forest, at the foot of which flows the Pinyos River, surrounded by the peaks of the Pindos ridge. A staircase of 140 steps is carved into the rock, leading up past the small church of St. John the Baptist.

Active nunneries of Meteor

The exact date of foundation of the Rusanu monastery is unknown. Its interior is decorated with wall paintings of the Cretan school (16th century) and a carved wooden iconostasis with gilding. The Monastery of St. Stephen (XIV century) crowns a huge rock hanging over the city of Kalambaka.

Monastery of St. Stephen

This is the richest of the Meteor monasteries, today it performs the functions educational center: in the former refectory there is a museum of monastery treasures, and in the outbuildings they organize exhibitions, concerts of church music, and give lectures on iconography.

Visit to the monasteries of Meteora

Until 1920, one could get to the monasteries by climbing long stairs or climbing a rope- the guest sat down in a woven rope net, and the monks dragged him to the top of the rock.

Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas

“At least several times in your life you want to feel like a bird, fluttering in a net that is dragged to heights of 30-40 fathoms, and during the ascent to pray to the Holy Mighty One,” - this is how Archimandrite Porfiry Uspensky, who visited the Meteora monasteries in 1859, described his impressions . Today, a good asphalt road has been laid to Meteora, and visiting them is not risky and is accessible not only to believers, but also to tourists. In summer, a bus runs from Kalambaka to the foot of the mountain.

When planning a visit to Meteora, you must choose clothing that complies with strict church regulations - no shorts, miniskirts, etc. Clothing must cover your arms to the wrists and your legs to the ankles; women put a headscarf on their heads.

Tatiana Solomatina

The obvious and the incredible: Meteora in Greece

Guest post

Hello, dear readers! I am with you again, but today I want to offer the debut article of a new author about the most interesting tourist attraction in Greece - Meteora, steep cliffs, on the tops of which the unique monasteries of Meteora are built.

In the article you will learn about the history of these places, find out how and when you can get there, how much you need to pay for entry, and also get some practical tips on visiting the shrines.

I recommend the material to everyone; I think the story is interesting and educational. But I won’t get ahead of myself, read for yourself and write your impressions in the comments, it’s important for us to know your opinion. So - Meteora Greece.

Seeing the title of the new article, perhaps someone will ask the question: “What are meteors and what are they eaten with?” Many people associate this word with celestial bodies – meteorites. It sounds similar, but in reality it is completely opposite. Don’t be upset, the world is big and it’s impossible to know everything. I propose to consider this issue in detail.

We will talk about an amazing place in the north of Greece, where the unearthly beauty of nature harmoniously united with the heights of human spirituality.
Meteora (make no mistake, emphasis is on the second syllable) is a unique complex of medieval Orthodox monasteries, located on the tops of a majestic ridge of almost vertical rocks.

WITH Greek language, Meteora - translated as “floating in the sky.” The name is surprisingly apt because this is exactly what you'll get if you happen to be nearby in foggy weather. Imagine that the base of the mountains is hidden in a thick cloud of fog, and against the blue sky only the tops of wild rocks are visible, from which the bizarre buildings of ancient monasteries miraculously grow. The stunning spectacle will not leave anyone indifferent.

A little history

It is believed that hermits, attracted by the solitude and inaccessibility of these mountains, settled in tiny caves back in the 5th century. But the flourishing of monastic life began only nine centuries later.

In 1334, the Athonite monk Athanasius, later St. Athanasius of Meteora, left Mount Athos, plundered by the Venetians, and found refuge in Meteora. He dedicated his life to uniting scattered monasteries and organized a monastic community with strict rules following the example of the monasteries of Athos.

It was the Monk Athanasius with 14 ascetics who began the incredible construction at that time (the height of the rock plateau is 600 meters) - the Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord, now known as the Great Meteor.

At its peak, there were 24 monasteries. Now only six have survived - two for women and four for men. All active, they are often visited by pilgrims and tourists. All that remains of the rest are mentions in chronicles and inaccessible ruins.

On excursions, the seventh monastery is sometimes mentioned. But this is rather a secluded monastery, where a single monk has been serving for more than 50 years. Local residents say that in all these years he never left his cell or went down to the valley.

Meteors today

Greece is full of surprises, and Meteora - amazing place, listed as a World Heritage Site. I'll tell you a little about each shrine.

Transfiguration Monastery or Megala Meteora(Great Meteor), undoubtedly the grander and once richest of the Meteor monasteries, was founded by St. Athanasius.

The main temple of the Transfiguration of the Lord initially had the usual shape of a cross for Athos temples. Despite being renovated and rebuilt several times over the following centuries, it retains several scenes from the very first, original frescoes of the 14th century.

In addition to the frescoes, there is an amazingly beautiful gilded iconostasis of the 17th century, many icons and precious church utensils. The monastery refectory now houses a museum where priceless treasures and shrines are kept.

I would like to remind you that this is a working monastery, so part of the monastery is closed to tourists, because not all monks strive to communicate with guests. You can come here during the season - from 9.00 to 17.00 every day, except Tuesday; from 9.00 to 16.00 - in winter, closed - Tuesday, Wednesday.

Monastery of Varlaam or All Saints bears the name of its founder - the hermit Varlaam. A contemporary of Saint Athanasius, monk Varlaam, in search of solitude, climbed the rock and never left it until his death. He left behind a modest monastery and a tiny chapel.

Only 150 years later, the ascetics came to restore the chapel and founded the Monastery of All Saints. Unfortunately this place is now closed. But in the main temple of the monastery, tourists can see stunning frescoes by Franco Catelano, unique mosaics made of mother-of-pearl and ivory.

The rebuilt altar houses a museum of monastery valuables. The second museum, located in the former refectory, is famous for its collection of rare handwritten texts.
Open from 9.00 to 16.00. Weekends: in winter - Thursday, Friday, and in summer - Thursday.

Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas(Comforter) is located closest to all other monasteries, literally a few minutes walk from the village of Kastraki. It occupies the smallest rock in area, so it is built up several levels and is crowned by the tiny church of John the Baptist.

Almost the entire twentieth century, the monastery was in disrepair. His valuables and collection of manuscripts were transferred to other monasteries. But the magnificent frescoes of St. Nicholas Cathedral have been preserved here.

Open for tourists from 9.00 to 15.30 in the season and until 14.00 in the winter, except Fridays.

Monastery of Saint Barbara, better known as Rusanu - female. It is very small and nestled on a low rock. Local nuns, despite the lack of space, have created a tiny and harmonious garden with many different flowers.

Unlike other monasteries, whose ministers do not seek to communicate with tourists, local nuns are very hospitable and willingly make contact with guests.

You can visit Rusana from 9.00 to 16.00 in summer and from 9.00 to 14.00 in winter. Closed on Wednesdays.

Monastery of the Holy Trinity- one of the most difficult to reach. Located on great grief amazing shape (height 400 meters), it seems to be floating in the air.

140 steep steps carved into the rock lead to the entrance to the monastery. But having overcome the climb, you will not regret it for a second! Such an incredible and fantastic view of the surrounding area will open up.

Available to visitors from 9.00 to 17.00 in summer, except Thursdays, from 10.00 to 16.00 in winter, closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Monastery of St. Stephen- the second Meteor convent, the most prosperous and extensive in area. Having survived desolation in the 20th century, it managed to recover and expand.

This is the only shrine, the path to which does not have to be climbed along steep stairs. A convenient pedestrian bridge leads from the road with parking to the gate.
The monastery is for women, so it, like Rusana, is distinguished by the abundance of greenery and flowers.

Here, among other relics, is one of the most revered icons - the icon of Our Lady of Portaitissa. According to local legend, it is the oldest in existence.

Open to the public from 9.00 to 17.00 in summer and from 9:30 to 17.00 in winter. Please note that there is a break from 13.00 to 15.00. Closed on Mondays.

Location

Meteora is located 300 kilometers north of Athens and about 200 kilometers from Thessaloniki in the mountains of Thessaly.

The nearest large settlement to Meteora is the town of Kalambaki. It is located right at the foot of the cliffs. Small and very cozy, if not for the crowds of tourists with backpacks and lines of excursion buses.

There are quite decent hotels and guest houses. Those of you who decide that one day is not enough for you to experience all the beauties, will always be able to choose an overnight stay to suit your taste.

The city has a well-developed infrastructure, many different cafes, taverns and restaurants. There are a lot of souvenir shops, albeit with exorbitant prices.

There are train and bus stations here, where people come all year round to look at Meteora.

The village of Kastraki is located even closer to the foot of the cliffs. The tourism business there is also well established. There are hotels to stay overnight and cafes to grab a bite to eat.

How to get there?

The most convenient and easiest way, of course, is to purchase a ready-made excursion there. But for those who prefer to travel independently, love freedom or simply adore challenges, there are several ways to get to Meteora.

Most cheap option- train. There is a direct train from directly to Kalambaka twice a day. The journey will take approximately five hours. The route with a transfer is naturally longer and more expensive.

There is no direct train route from Thessaloniki, so you will have to change trains in Paleofarsalos.

There is no direct bus service to Kalambaka from Athens and Thessaloniki. Therefore your bus route There will be a transfer in Trikala.

The road to Meteora by car will take approximately 3 hours from Thessaloniki, and just over 4 hours from Athens.

From Kalambaka to Kastraki it is about two kilometers, about 20 minutes on foot. If you don’t want to walk, then for only 1.50 euros, a bus runs directly from the center of Kalambaka along this route (please check the schedule on site).

From Kastraki it is better to start climbing to the monasteries of St. Nicholas Anapavsas, Great Meteor, Varlaam and St. Barbara.

There is a good two-lane road leading to the monasteries, there are convenient parking lots, so it is comfortable for those traveling by car.

And in conclusion - some advice. I hope they help make your visit to Meteora more enjoyable and hassle-free.

1. Be sure to check the entire travel schedule immediately before departure. Those who have visited Greece more than once know how much the Greeks love various strikes, especially in transport. I already wrote above, all monasteries have their own work schedule. Don’t forget to check it again when planning a visit to each monastery.
2. Visiting all monasteries is paid. Cost – 3 euros per person.
3. Be sure to wear comfortable, lightweight shoes. Directly to the monasteries you will have to climb fairly steep stairs carved into the rocks. So forget about flip-flops or Louboutins.
4. Stock up on bottled drinking water. Although each monastery has its own source, the local water was not to the taste of many of our compatriots. Unlike foreigners, who drink it with pleasure and even take it with them.
5. Photography is prohibited inside all monasteries. Better spend this time contemplating the splendor around you.
   Smoking and drinking alcohol are also prohibited - calculate your strength correctly.
6. All Meteor shrines - active monasteries Greek Orthodox Church. This imposes a number of obligations on visitors. It is better for men to wear trousers, and for women a skirt that falls below the knees. True, you can ask for a special skirt with ties on the spot.
7. Open shoulders are strictly prohibited for both women and men.
8. A headscarf on the visitor's head is approved, but not required.

The Greek and Russian churches are Sister Churches, therefore all sacraments and rituals performed in the Meteor temples are recognized by the Russian Orthodox Church. For this reason, Meteora is visited not only by curious tourists, but also by pilgrims from Russia, Ukraine and other Orthodox countries. If you are a believer, then this trip may have a deep spiritual component for you.

It seems like I haven't forgotten anything. Thank you for reading to the end, I hope that the information was useful to you.

Dear readers! Fifteen years ago, while on a business trip, I managed to visit one of the monasteries. But I still have memories of this spiritual place.
Of course, I want to go back there, especially since so many years have passed and I haven’t seen everything, but there is no such opportunity yet. But there is always something to strive for. As they say: “If there is a desire, there will be a reason.”

Leave comments, share the article on social networks, subscribe to blog updates, there is still a lot of interesting material ahead.

And now I’ll say goodbye for a moment.

Tatiana Solomatina

The Meteora monasteries, located in Greece, have been known since the 10th century. They have a unique location, rising on the tops of rocks and seeming to grow out of the rock. Their name is translated from Greek as “floating in the air,” which suits these buildings perfectly. Find out how to visit this unique place.

This monastery complex has long been considered one of the most sacred places of Orthodox Christianity.

Where are they located in Greece

The Meteora monasteries are located very close to the city of Kalambaka (2 km) with a population of 8.6 thousand people. The Meteora rocks, where these ancient monasteries were created, are part of the mountains of Thessaly, the northeastern historical region of Greece. These rocks are already 60 million years old and were once the bottom of the sea. At their foot is the Thessalian Plain.

Did you know? The city of Kalambaka is located on the Thessalian plain at the foot of the Meteor rocks. It houses the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, known since the 10th–11th centuries. It was built on the ruins of an early Christian church from the 6th century. The main attractions are the unique marble pulpit in the central part and the frescoes of the 12th and 16th centuries.

History of the monastery complex

Historians believe that the very first hermit in Meteora was a certain Barnabas, who built in 950-970. the first monastery of the Holy Spirit. A little later, the Transfiguration Monastery and the Stagi Monastery were built, which became the basis for the monastic community.

In 1334, the monk Athanasius arrived here from Athos, fleeing from the Catalan corsairs, and began building the first monastery, which he named the Great Meteor (Preobrazhensky). In 1371, Meteora was visited by the ruler of Thessaly, John Uresh, who, after meeting Athanasius of Meteora, renounced the kingdom and became a monk under the name Joasaph.

After the death of Saint Athanasius, he became abbot of the monastery and greatly contributed to the prosperity of Meteora. Their development was also facilitated by the fact that the location made the monasteries inaccessible to conquerors and robbers. In the 16th century, the complex already included 24 monasteries, but many of them gradually fell into disrepair.

The monasteries suffered greatly during the Second World War and the ensuing war. Civil War in Greece (1946–1949).

How to get there

There are regular flights to Greece from airports in Ukraine and Russia. It is best to choose a flight to the mainland of Greece (Athens, Thessaloniki).

Important! Excursions should be carried out in good sunny weather; rainy and foggy weather may prevent you from seeing the beautiful rocky landscapes and the magnificent panorama of the valley.

The distance to Kalambaka from the Greek capital of Athens is 355 km, from the second largest settlement Greece Thessaloniki - 230 km.

From Athens you can get to Kalambaka by three modes of transport:

1. Rented car. This is the most convenient type of transport for a tourist trip, which will get you to Kalambaka in 4 hours 17 minutes. Renting a car at the Athens airport will cost from 25.18 euros per day, gasoline consumption one way will be 28 liters (40–65 euros). There are practically no signs along the road, so you should take care of navigation or find an accompanying person.
2. Railway transport. The most inexpensive travel option is a one-way ticket costing 18–24 euros. Trains run daily. Direct flight to Kalambaka number 884 at 8:30, return flight - 885. There are options with transfers.
3. A one-way bus ride will take 6 hours 15 minutes and cost 40 euros. But buses run several times a day (from 7:30 to 15:30).

From Thessaloniki you can get to Kalambaki as follows:

1. Rented car. Renting a car at the airport will cost at least 26.48 euros per day. One way will cost 18 liters of gasoline worth 27–40 euros, and the one-way trip will take 2 hours 34 minutes.
2. Railway transport. Trains run daily and cost €14–€19 for a one-way trip. Travel time is 3 hours 8 minutes. The direct train number 591 leaves at 16:15 and runs once a day, the return train number 590 leaves at 8:19.
3. Buses run 4 times a week and get to the place in 3 hours 15 minutes. The cost of a one-way ticket is about 20 euros.

In these major cities you can buy yourself tourist trip in Meteora.

In one day you are unlikely to be able to explore all the sights of the rock monasteries, so it makes sense to stay at least one or two nights in local hotels. If you are traveling by train or bus, it is better to immediately decide how far you are going there and buy round-trip tickets - it will cost you less.

From Kalambaka itself you can get to the monasteries in the following ways:

1. They run from 9:00 to 16:00 almost every two hours. They go back an hour later.
2. . In this case, you need to have a navigator.
3. Taxi. It will cost 10 euros one way.
4. On foot. The road to the first monastery will be about 5 km, and it will go up, which can quickly exhaust tourists, and exploring the monastery territories will also require time and effort. For lovers of hiking, it makes sense to stop in the village of Kastraki - from there it takes 10–15 minutes to walk to the monasteries.

Monasteries today

During the prosperity of the monastic state, there were more than twenty monasteries on Meteora, but now there are only six working ones left - four for men and two for women.

Did you know? The Meteora Monasteries have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988 at number 455. They are recognized as a masterpiece of human genius, and at the same time a natural phenomenon of exceptional beauty and aesthetic importance. In addition to them, in Greece there are 17 more such monuments under the protection of UNESCO.

The second largest rock monastery is named after the first monk who settled there in the first half of the 14th century. Varlaam built the Temple of the Three Hierarchs during the construction of the Transfiguration Church by monk Athanasius.

The functioning of this monastery is associated with the brothers Nektarios and Theophanes Apsars, who came from a wealthy family, who took monastic vows and lived first on the island of Ioannina, and then on the Holy Mountain (Athos).

They settled on Meteora in 1510 and began to restore the monastery, and in 1541 they built the Cathedral of All Saints. They were buried here. The frescoes of the 16th century are well preserved to this day; they are recognizable as the hand of the famous master of painting Franco Catelano and the Kodar brothers from Thebes.

The painting of the temple is considered an example of the “school of Northwestern Greece”.

On the territory of the complex there is an altar, a balcony castle, a hospital and the Chapel of the Three Hierarchs, now closed to tourists

It is easiest to get to this nunnery, as there is a bridge and an access road to it. Monks settled there in the 12th century, but the monastery itself was founded in the 14th century by monk Anthony from the Kadakouzinos family.

The monastery was given a second life by monk Philatheus, who restored the old St. Stephen's Cathedral. At the end of the 18th century, the Cathedral of St. Charalampius was built, which is now closed to outsiders.

Z Otherwise, tourists can admire the restored frescoes of the old cathedral and the altar, where the museum is now located. Among the buildings on the territory there are also cells and a kitchen.

The closest monastery to the village of Kastraki with a steep climb. Named after its founder, monk Nikanor Anapavsas. There are 143 steps leading to the base of his rock, and 85 steps leading to his territory. The area of ​​the rock formation on which it is built is small, so the structure has several levels.

The first level is occupied by a small chapel, the altar of which measures only 4 square meters. m. On the second level there is the Church of St. Nicholas, painted by the famous icon painter Theophan of Crete in 1527. The third level is occupied by: a small church of John the Baptist, vaults with relics, cells and a refectory.

There are several opinions regarding the formation and name of this convent. According to one hypothesis, it was founded by the monks Nicodemus and Benedict in 1388. Another suggests that the founder was a resident of the town of Rosana Rusanos.

For a long time the monastery was empty until it was revived by the brothers Joasaph and Maxim, who built the Church of the Transfiguration of Christ.

The monastery fell into disrepair several times. After reconstruction, a convent was formed here, named in honor of St. Barbara. The temple contains the heads of the holy great martyrs Barbara and Kirik, fragments of the relics of Tryphon, Panteleimon, Procopius and Charalampios.

The monastery is located on a low cliff and is a 3-level building. On the first level there are the cells of the nuns and the temple, and the other two levels are occupied by living quarters, halls for visitors, and additional cells.

Inside the premises there are many beautiful paintings, jeweled lecterns, icons and a beautifully carved wooden altar. The nuns are known for their hospitality and often hand out sweets to visitors.

Great Meteor (Preobrazhensky monastery) was built very first and is the main temple. Its abbot runs the entire monastery complex on the rocks. Located on the highest rock - 413 m from the surface of the earth, 613 m above sea level.

Now there are 154 steps cut into it, but once it was possible to get into it only by rope ladders or in nets, which are still used to lift loads.

At the entrance to the monastery, the monastery of St. Athanasius has been preserved. This small dilapidated structure is located in the rock. The main temple of the monastery - Transfiguration Cathedral, built in 1388 following the example of the temples of the Holy Mountain (Athos), has a cruciform layout and a dome with twelve sides 24 meters in height.

It contains the burial place of its founders, Saints Athanasius and Joasaph, valuable icons and manuscripts, and ancient frescoes. The only painting preserved from the 14th century is on the outer northern wall and consists of images of Christ Pantocrator with a pair of angels, the Mother of God and John the Baptist, the apostles, scenes of hell and heaven.

On the territory there are also two chapels (John the Baptist, Saints Constantine and Helen), an altar, a refectory (now a museum), and a hospital.

The Holy Trinity Monastery is picturesquely located on a high cliff. There are 140 steps cut into the rock leading to this place. Historically, this monastery is the third oldest.

Historians claim that the main temple of the Katholikon was built in 1476. This is evidenced by the external masonry of the walls, inscriptions and other facts. Another temple, the Narthex, was built later - in 1692. Its first founder is considered to be the monk Dometius (data not confirmed).

The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity is painted in two stages. The oldest frescoes are in the nave, while the paintings in the rest of the temple date back to a later period and are painted on top of older images.

The balcony complex offers a wonderful view. From the east is the monastery of St. Stephen, and from the west the monasteries of Varlaam and Great Meteor are clearly visible; from the south you can clearly see the small town of Kalambaka.

The top of the rock occupies about 10 hectares. In addition to the temples, the territory contains monks’ cells and a small plot of land for farming.

Rules and schedule for visiting monasteries

Meteors are enough popular place from tourists. People come here both on organized excursions and on their own. But it would be a shame to travel a long distance to admire this historical monument, and find the entrance closed to tourists, since it is now a weekend or work day is already over.

These holy places are not open to visitors around the clock, but on certain days and hours. In addition, there are summer and winter visiting schedules.

You can stay overnight nearby in the small town of Kalambaka, as well as in the village of Kastraki.

The seasonality of Meteor is as follows:

• winter period - 01.11–31.03;
• summer period - 01.04–31.10.

The working hours of the monasteries are as follows:

Name	Winter period	Summer period	Weekend
Big Meteor	from 9:00 to 16:00	from 9:00 to 17:00	winter time - Tue, Wed summer time - Tue
St. Varlaam	from 9:00 to 15:00	from 9:00 to 16:00	winter time - Thu, Fri summer time - Fri
St. Stephen	from 9:00 to 17:00 break from 13:00 to 15:00	from 9:00 to 17:30 break from 13:30 to 15:30	Monday
St. Nicholas	from 9:00 to 14:00	from 9:00 to 17:00	Friday
Holy Trinity	from 9:00 to 14:00	from 9:00 to 17:00	winter time - Thu, Wed summer time - Thu
	from 9:00 to 14:00	from 9:00 to 18:00	Wednesday

You can check the opening hours of the monasteries by calling the following numbers:

• Big Meteor - tel. 2432–022278;
• St. Varlaam - tel. 2432–022277;
• St. Stephen - tel. 2432–022279;
• St. Nicholas - tel. 2432–022375;
• Holy Trinity - tel. 2432–022220;
• Rusan - tel. 2432–022649.

Telephone inquiries are available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The rest of the time, an answering machine is turned on, which informs about the opening hours of the monasteries.

Important! When visiting Christian shrines, you should dress appropriately. Women should wear long skirts and cover their heads. Men should wear trousers, not shorts, and remove head coverings in temples. Filming inside the temples is prohibited; no need to talk or laugh loudly.

The combination of Christian shrines, the architecture and paintings of ancient temples, the picturesque mountainous terrain - all this arouses admiration among tourists from all over the world. If you want to get acquainted with all the sights in detail, you should keep in mind that it is impossible to explore all the monasteries in one day.

Tourists who have visited these places speak about them with delight and recommend having a small picnic at observation platforms, watch the sunset or sunrise there.