Meteora, the spiritual heaven!
Meteora is an extraordinary and inspiring place. These impressive pillars of rock are sculpted by prehistoric rivers and until today are full of monasteries. These rock monasteries have been characterized by Unesco as a “unique phenomenon of cultural heritage” and they truly are one of the most important spots of cultural and spiritual map of Greece.
A trip to Meteora is a must-do activity and will you offer a unique experience! It is the place where nature’s grandeur meets history, architecture and definitely the eternal desire to connect with the Divine.
What to do in Meteora?
1. Visit the Monasteries
At present there are six active, restored monasteries:
- Monastery of Great Meteoron
- Monastery of Varlaam
- Monastery of Rousanou
- Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapausas
- Monastery of St. Stephen
- Monastery of Holy Trinity
All the others, restored or abandoned, are unfortunately empty.
2. Rock Climbing
Climbing the Meteora pillars is a fantastic experience. From the earliest days of the monasteries, rock climbing was a necessity, as there was no other way to get to the top. So, monks was going up by using ropes, nets, bare hands or long rickety ladders. Today, climbers from all over enjoy the rock-climbing routes, often without surplus safeties using natural holds.
3. Hiking
A large network of the old monks’ trails thread through Meteora. The most accessible trails heads to the beautiful monasteries of Agias Triados and Agiou Stefanou. If you have a head for heights, choose a walk to Holy Spirit rock, one of the oldest and smallest monasteries which offers not only an incredible history lesson but also a breathtaking view.
4. Visit Kalambaka
Kalambaka opens the door to Meteora. It is the commercial and tourist hub of the region, with lots of hotels and restaurants. Enjoy a walk in the old part of town, called Spotos, don’t miss Greece’s only woodworking school here and of course visit a traditional foundry.
5. Visit the village Kastraki
This village is nestled among the rocks and perhaps the prettiest, most picturesque and authentic village of the area. Kastraki is the perfect place to set off for a walk towards the Meteora rocks and the old monasteries. Discover some of the well-hidden old ruined Monasteries and of course don’t leave without a tasting its local cuisine.
Enjoy this #TouriusExperience in Meteora!
Written by Polymnia Panagiotopoulou Photo Credit: Athena24 by pixabay