How to get to the Greek monasteries of Meteora? Rules for visiting monasteries. The fabulous monasteries of Meteora in Greece - operating temples and visiting order

These stone sculptures are located near the city of Kalambaka, which is 300 km from Athens. The average height of the rock formations is 300 meters, but some of them reach 600 meters in height.

Many modern climbers do not dare to climb the round, almost sheer walls of unusual rocks. But, looking up at the tops of the pillars, you can see that there is a temple on almost every one of them.

Winding mountain paths lead you to the tops of many pillars, from where you can enjoy a picturesque view of the valley of the Piños River. According to legend, the first hermit monks appeared in these impregnable and stony rocks cut off from the world as early as the 9th century. They lived in rocky depressions and natural caves, and nearby they created small platforms for joint study of spiritual texts and prayers. Later, the constant raids of robbers forced the monks to leave their caves and build monasteries on the tops of the rocks.

It is difficult to even imagine how much work it took to build these monasteries in such extreme conditions. Until 1920, the temples were closed to outsiders - the monks led a very secluded lifestyle, and residents of neighboring cities delivered food to them. Transportation of parcels to the tops of the rocks was carried out using ropes and baskets.

At the foot of the cliff, each temple had at its disposal a plot of land that the monks cultivated and grew vegetables and fruits there. They climbed and descended with the help of a complex system of nets, baskets, ropes and carts. If danger arose below, the inhabitants of the monastery cut off all contacts with the outside world - they raised ropes and nets, then no one could disturb their peace and harmony.

No matter how hard the hermits tried to protect their territory with various tricks and traps, the temples were still destroyed and devastated. Only 6 of the 24 monasteries that once crowned the tops of the rocks have survived to this day. They store priceless riches: unique frescoes, icons, medieval manuscripts and other ancient shrines. The monasteries of St. Nicholas Anapavsas, Varlaam, Rusanu, Great Meteor, Holy Trinity and St. Stephen are currently active.

Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas was founded at the beginning of the XIV century by the Metropolitan of the city of Larisa Dionysius. This is a small monastery, to which a relatively comfortable staircase leads. It has a unique design - a small area of ​​rock, on which the monastery was built, forced the monks to build cells, temples and other buildings on several levels.

On the first level of the monastery there is a small chapel of St. Anthony and a crypt in which relics and manuscripts were kept, on the second there is the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, on the third - the restored chapel of St. John the Baptist, a dining room decorated with frescoes, as well as a crypt for storing relics.

View from the other side:

The main temple of the monastery of St. Nicholas is decorated with magnificent frescoes of the 16th century, made by the famous Cretan icon painter Theophanes Strelidzas.

Adam names the animals:

Monastery of Varlaam was founded in 1517 by monks-priests Theophanes and Nektarios. It got its name in honor of the monk who, in 1350, first settled on the top of the rock and built there a church dedicated to the Three Hierarchs, a water tank and a cell for himself. No one else followed the example of Varlaam, and after his death, this place was abandoned for a long time, until the two rich brothers Theophanes and Nektarios founded a monastery there.

The frescoes decorating the main temple were made by the famous artist Franck Catalano in 1548. The monastery also houses a valuable collection of icons, rare manuscripts, reliquaries, carved wooden crosses, shrouds embroidered with gold.

Currently, 7 monks live in Varlaam's monastery, who are happy to meet guests and kindly talk to them.

Rusanu monastery- This is a convent founded in 1545 by the brothers Maxim and Joasaph. It is located on a low rock, covers the entire area of ​​its surface and consists of three levels. On the first level there are cells and a church, while the other two levels are occupied by living quarters, an exhibition and reception hall, as well as additional cells. The interior of the monastery is decorated with beautiful paintings, precious lecterns, icons and a wooden altar with gilding and carvings. The nuns who live here have a reputation for being very friendly and hospitable women, often treating their guests to candies and sweets.

Great Meteor(Preobrazhensky Monastery) is the largest and oldest meteor monastery, founded at the beginning of the 14th century by Saint Athanasius of Meteora. He was the first to climb this high mountain and built a church and modest cells for monks here. His successor was St. Joseph, the Serbian king, who in 1373 renounced secular power to become a monk. During his stay in the monastery, he rebuilt the Church of the Transfiguration, built a hospital and a reservoir.

In the 16th century, the Transfiguration Monastery received a significant portion of royal and imperial donations. Then the monastery complex was rebuilt and expanded. A new kitchen, a nursing home, a tower, and several chapels were built.

In 1552, the famous artist Feofan worked on the creation of frescoes in the monastery. These frescoes are one of the best examples of post-Byzantine monumental painting. The temple has a rich collection of valuable icons, manuscripts and holy relics.

Monastery of the Holy Trinity- This is a monastery located on the top of one of the most slender and picturesque rocks of Meteora. You can get to the monastery by climbing 140 steps carved into the rock in 1925, which makes it the most ascetic and peaceful monastery, since not everyone can overcome such a difficult path.

During the Second World War, it was badly damaged and almost all of its treasures were looted.

View of Kalambaka from Holy Trinity Monastery:

Monastery of Saint Stephen- This is a functioning women's monastery, which stores an important relic - the relics of St. Charalambius, which protects against diseases and ailments. The foundation of the monastery dates back to the 14th century, but the first hermits appeared here in the 12th century. It is located on a high cliff that rises above the city of Kalambaka. It is very easy to get to this monastery - a stone pedestrian bridge leads to it, the length of which is 8 meters.

Currently, the monastery refectory houses a museum that exhibits valuable monastery relics: Byzantine icons of the 17th-18th centuries, a diskos with a chalice, as well as a manuscript of the Divine Liturgy, which was written by one of the founders of the monastery.

Basic moments

The name "Meteora" comes from the word meteorizo, which means "soaring in the air." This is the most accurate description of the appearance of the monasteries. When clouds of mist shroud the mountain slopes in the early morning, the buildings towering above them seem to hover above the clouds. The heyday of the monasteries of Meteora falls on the end of the Middle Ages - at that time there were 24 monasteries and sketes. 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 - for women: St. Stephen and Rusanu monastery (or Monastery of St. Barbara). Although the remaining 18 monasteries lie in ruins, in some places hermits still live in them, wishing to preserve the cultural and spiritual heritage of Byzantium.

The very first sketes in the mountains appeared in the 11th century. The hermits fled from worldly fuss in order to continue their service to the Lord without interference, and settled in simple mountain caves. As their number grew, the monks united into a monastic community, similar to the spiritual republic on Mount Athos.

Only a few hermits founded the very first skete, Dupiani, now completely destroyed. Only a small chapel of the 13th century remained a witness of their asceticism.

In 1334, the monk Athanasius arrived at the monasteries of Meteora. With his arrival, monastic life really began to flourish in the region. In 1370, together with 14 monks, he climbed the highest rock and founded the Great Meteor Monastery, also known as Metamorphosis (i.e. Transformations). Covering an area of ​​about 60,000 sq. m, Meteora is one of the largest monastic complexes. According to legend, an eagle, or even an angel, lifted Athanasius up to a mountain peak. This monk was the first to determine the rules of conduct that the rest had to follow, observing the laws of monastic life in Meteora. Over time, he and his followers founded several more monasteries around.

Today, only 6 out of 24 monasteries are inhabited. In the monastery of St. Nicholas Anapavsas, in the chapel of John the Baptist, laid out on the shelves in even rows, the skulls of all the monks who have ever lived in this monastery are kept. The walls of the cathedral are decorated with frescoes by Theophan Strelidzas (c. 1500-1559), an outstanding icon painter of the Cretan school - a group of artists, which included the famous El Greco. Monastery of Saint Rusanu (or Monastery of St. Barbara) was founded in 1388. Re-consecrated 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 nunnery.

The Great Meteor, the largest complex, was named so by its founder Athanasius in honor of the massive stone pillars, as if hanging in the air, which were called Meteora. Until 1923, when roads were laid to the monasteries and 143 stone steps were made for climbing, monks and visitors could get into the monasteries only by hanging stairs or with the help of monks who raised them in special nets. In the same way, all building materials for the erection 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 (Saint 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 rocks where the Meteora monasteries are built, the highest of which reach 300 m, is the city of Kalambaka. After the Second World War, it underwent a massive restructuring. It is worth visiting the city's cathedral, during the construction of which materials from ancient buildings were partially involved. You can see frescoes of the 16th century and an amazing marble pulpit - in fact, this is a pulpit, dating back, like a canopy, to the early Christian era.

Located two kilometers from the city, the village of Kastraki, 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 adorned with delightful frescoes from the early 16th century by Theophrastus of Crete, who also worked on Mount Athos. The 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 monastery of Varlaam.

Also very small, this monastery (XVI century) huddled on a narrow rock, which can be reached by a suspension bridge. The location of the monastery is its highlight: an incredible ensemble of rocks carved by water, winds and temperature changes acts as scenery in the background. It is always popular with mountaineers.

A little ahead of time, the road forks. The left one leads to the 16th century Varlaam Monastery, built on a narrow platform on top of a cliff. After passing all 130 steps and stepping over the threshold, you will find yourself in a sun-drenched churchyard. Inside, be sure to take a look at the picture depicting a saint mourning the vanity of this world in front of the skeleton of Alexander the Great. The amazing fresco The Last Judgment on the wall opposite the choir deserves special attention. Visitors can also see 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 climb 192... Despite the frequent destruction, the Great Meteor has preserved priceless evidence of Byzantine art, in particular, embroidered robes of priests and austere frescoes. The Church of the Transfiguration is known for its wooden iconostasis. Nearby you can see the old dining room, the kitchen, many rooms where various classes took place, and an ossuary with the skulls of dead monks. The balcony offers a breathtaking 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 afar seems to be floating in the air. Although part of it was built in the 15th century, it lacks unity due to the addition of modern buildings.

Monastery of Agios Stefanos (Saint Stephen)

The last monastery you have to discover is also the most easily accessible thanks to the footbridge that links it to the road. This place is famous for its view of Kalambaka and the Thessalian plain. The former dining room has been turned 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 XVIII century.

monk climbers

No one knows exactly how the first monks managed to climb the rocks of Meteora. Incredible fairy tales make the imagination draw huge kites, ropes tied to the paws of a hawk, scaffolding, giant trees - everything that could be used to climb ... It is possible that once upon a time shepherds and hunters suggested to the monks the paths known to them alone. Soon they 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. According to the records of travelers of the past, the rope was changed only after the old one broke! You can still see these structures, now powered by an electric lift. Today they are intended for cargo, and visitors prefer to climb on foot.

Chronology

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

There are many natural beauties in Greece that are impressive in one look. But there are also those that combine many aspects. For example, in Thessaly, on a ridge of picturesque rocks and stone pillars, the monasteries of Meteora rise – ancient centers of Orthodox culture. This is a unique creation of the forces of nature and man, because the temples literally merged with the rocks into a single whole. The cloisters are located on peaks, which range from 300 to 600 meters above sea level. At first glance, it seems as if they hang over the mountains: even the expression "meteora" in Greek means "floating in the air." Many more interesting things can be said about this place, which we will do in today's article.

As already noted, the temples are built on the tops of the rocks, so let's start the story with the history of the natural attraction. The mountains of Thessaly were formed 60 million years before our days and were a rocky bottom of the sea. Later, the water left and a plain formed, and the stones, under the influence of water, wind and temperature fluctuations, turned into huge pillars rising hundreds of meters above the ground. These rocks subsequently became a reliable haven for the monastery cloisters.

The first hermits

According to legend, hermits appeared in these places before the 10th century. They were placed so high not only because of the desire for solitude, but also for protection from the raids of the Turks, Crusaders, Vikings, etc.

In those days, the hermits climbed the rocks along the ledges, and only later did they begin to use rope ladders and timber scaffolding. For life, they equipped themselves in caves and crevices "cells", and for prayer purposes they set aside special areas. The spiritual life of the monks led together: they communicated together, prayed, studied religious texts. But in order to perform the sacraments, they had to go down to the foot of the rocks, where the Church of the Archangels was located in the city of Stagi ( later Mother of God).

Researchers call the first inhabitant of Meteora Barnabas, in 950-970. who founded the skete of the Holy Spirit here. The second skete, called Preobrazhensky, was built in the rocks by the Cretan monk Andronicus. It happened in 1020. And even more than 100 years later, in 1160, the skete of Staghi (Dupiani) appeared in Meteora, which became the starting point in the construction of a full-fledged “monastic country” on the rocks.

The formation of monasteries

For several centuries, nothing disturbed the measured life of hermits, but in the XIV century the raids of foreign invaders became more frequent and the flow of ascetics to these lands increased sharply. Among them, the monk Athanasius arrived here, expelled from Athos by the invasion of corsairs. He lived on the pillar of the Stagi for about 10 years before he decided to start implementing a long-tormented idea - the foundation of a monastery monastery in Meteora, similar to the Athos temples.

Finally, in 1334, he gathered a group of 14 people and began climbing the sheer cliff of Platis Lithos, 613 meters above sea level! Here the monks founded the first monastery of the Transfiguration, also known as the Great Meteor. Athanasius, on the other hand, laid down the rules of monastic life, and even the name of the monastery "Meteora" is attributed to his authorship. Subsequently, other brothers followed the example of the brave monks and new cloisters were founded on the neighboring pillars. So the famous monasteries of Meteora appeared in Greece.

The monastic state reached its peak in the 16th century. Thanks to the protection of steep cliffs, people were completely safe here, and the monastic community only grew and strengthened. In addition, numerous rulers generously donated gifts to the temples. As a result, from the moment of foundation to the period of prosperity, 24 independent monasteries settled on stone pillars.

But gradually the greatness of the complex begins to fade, and the number of cloisters becomes less and less. The 20th century became a turning point: during the Second World War, the temples were looted by German and Italian invaders, and a little later the Civil War adversely affected them. However, in the post-war years in Greece, the restoration of historical heritage begins and the monasteries receive a “second life”.

Active monasteries of Meteora

Today, the monastery complex of Meteora, located on the rocks, is not only Orthodox Greece, but also a tourist one.

Although only 6 out of 24 monasteries remain, pilgrims come here, and ordinary travelers are happy to see ancient temples “hanging in the air”. Moreover, during the restoration of the monasteries, safe and relatively easy roads were laid. But before these stone steps appeared, the monks used rope ladders or special nets with a cable to climb, with the help of which they dragged loads, and sometimes people, upstairs.

So, at the moment, the following monasteries of Meteora have been preserved and operate in Greece:

• Transfiguration Cathedral;
• Church of the HolyNicholas Anapavsas;
• Monastery of Varlaam (All Saints);
• Monastery of the Holy Trinity(or Meteora Agia Triada);
• Rusanu Cathedral or St. Barbara's Monastery;

We offer you to get acquainted with the modern monastic country a little closer.

The monastery of Megala Meteora, also known as the Great Meteor and the Transfiguration Monastery, is located on the highest of the rocks. It was built by the monk Athanasius of Meteora, who is considered the founder of the entire community. Near the entrance to the monastery is the skete of St. Athanasius, in which he lived: this is a small building, founded right in the cave. A little further away from the skete there is a chapel and a crypt.

Built in 1388, the Transfiguration Cathedral in the likeness of Athos temples has a cruciform shape. The side extension of the temple, which stores the burial places of the founders of the monastery, rests on four columns. All of them, as well as the walls of the cathedral and the ceiling, are covered with frescoes. Many ancient icons and donated jewels have been preserved in the monastery. And the main artifacts of the monastery are:

• a Greek manuscript from 861;
• icon of the Mother of God;
• partsImperial Golden Bull;
• shroud of the 14th century;
• row of 16th century icons

At the beginning of the 20th century, stone steps were cut to approach the temple, but a cable and a net are sometimes still used to transport products.

In the XIV century, the hermit Varlaam climbed a stone pillar, where he founded several cells and a modest church in the name of the Three Hierarchs. The monk lived alone, so after his death the buildings were abandoned for a long time. Only in 1518, the monk brothers Nektary and Theophan, who had previously lived on the Great Meteor, decided to climb the rock in order to restore the temple of Varlaam. But later they decided to stay in the local monastery forever. New people came to them, so that soon the number of monks on the rock increased to 30. Then it was decided to build a more spacious cathedral.

So in 1542 the Church of All Saints was built. This is a one-nave basilica with two domes, architecturally similar to the Athos monasteries. In the 1550s, the walls of the temple were painted by the famous painter Franco Catelano, and in 1627 the fresco paintings were added by Ephraim the Syrian, the most famous member of the monastery, who wrote many church works.

Among the riches of the monastery, we note the Gospel of Constantine Bogoyarodny, post-Byzantine icons, rare manuscripts, golden shrouds, hand-carved wooden crosses.

Monastery of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity)

Built in the 15th century, the monastery of Agia Triada is built, perhaps, on the most picturesque pillar: a river flows at its foot, and a forested ridge rises above the cliff. The founder of the monastery is not known for certain, but the name of the monk Dometius is most often mentioned.

From the path starting at the foot of the mountain, 140 steps were laid to the temple. When climbing, you can see the small church of St. John the Baptist, equipped in the rock. In 1682, the monk Nicodemus painted its walls. The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity itself is located in the northwestern part of the monastery. It is made in the Byzantine style, with a cruciform base, two columns and a dome. In 1741, the temple was painted with frescoes by two clergy brothers: Anatoly and Nikodim.

The jewel of the church is the Venetian Gospel, trimmed with silver. Also in the temple there is a gilded iconostasis with images of Christ and the Mother of God.

Monastery of Rusanu or Saint Barbara

Data about the founder of the monastery on the rock differ: some sources call Rusanos, others call the monks Nikodim and Benedict. Be that as it may, it is only known for certain that the modern monastery was founded in 1545. By permission of the Metropolitan of the city of Larissa and hegumen Megal Meteor, the brothers Joasaph and Maxim erected a spacious temple here on the site of an old dilapidated church. It is also made in the Byzantine style, and the walls are decorated with frescoes of the 16th century.

Two bridges are connected to the monastery, which facilitates the approach to the temple. During the battles with the Turkish invaders, the monastery was a refuge for residents from the surrounding villages. However, the rock was still easy to conquer, so many of the values ​​of the monastery were stolen. The surviving relics now keep the walls of the Great Meteor.

In the middle of the 20th century, the monastery was empty, but the old woman Eusebia, from the village of Kastraki in Greece, alone guarded the building of the temple. After her death, the monastery was officially closed, but already in the 1980s, restoration work was carried out here. After reconstruction, the monastery received a second name in honor of St. Barbara and turned into a nunnery.

Also in Meteora there is a nunnery dedicated to St. Stephen. This richest monastery, founded at the end of the 14th century, is located on a picturesque rock, at the foot of which the city of Kalambaka is spread. The approach here is the most convenient: an 8-meter pedestrian bridge leads to the church.

St. Stephen's Church has a difficult fate. In 1545, she was proclaimed stauropegial and expelled from the diocese of Stagi. But the charity of the rulers of Romania allowed the monastery to exist comfortably. During the Ottoman dictatorship, the monks founded a school in Kalambaka and were engaged in educational activities. And only at the very end of the 18th century, the katholikon of the monastery was erected here - the church of St. Kharlampy. By 1960, the monastery was almost completely empty, but already in 1961 it was transformed into a nunnery, in which status it still operates.

The monastery of St. Stephen is rich in valuable relics: the monastery is famous for its ancient icons, and the archival fund is famous for the presence of a manuscript of the Divine Liturgy dated 1404.

It is believed that the monastery was founded in the 12th century by Nikanor Anapavsas, although the epithet Anapavsas ( calming) can also refer to the monastery itself, as a place of peace of mind. For the first time in written sources, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas was mentioned in 1392.

The area of ​​this rock is quite small, so there are cells, temples and other necessary buildings at different levels, partly resembling an intricate labyrinth. In total, the monastery has 3 "floors":

• 1 - tiny church of St. Anthony;
• 2 - Cathedral of St. Nicholas;
• 3 - a small chapel of St. John the Baptist, crypt, refectory and cells.

In the middle of the 20th century, the monastery fell into disrepair, but was soon restored and is still operating today.

Order of visiting monasteries and opening hours

Before you go sightseeing in the Meteora monasteries, you should consider the requirements for visiting.

Tourists and pilgrims are allowed to enter the territory strictly according to the work schedule of the institution.

The clothes of visitors should completely cover their legs and arms, and a headdress (shawl) is obligatory for women. Also, ladies are not allowed to come in trousers: only long skirts or dresses are allowed. Do not forget that for long climbs and walks you will need comfortable closed shoes.

Foreign citizens pay 3 euros to enter the territory. Photo and video filming inside the premises is prohibited.

Excursions to Meteora

Organized excursions to Meteor monasteries are sold at any travel agency. Most often, tourists from Athens or Thessaloniki go here. At the same time, the excursion program is very rich, and it takes about 12 hours to visit the monasteries + the road. The price depends on the distance to the attraction and the list of services provided to the client.

Viewpoints Meteor

Visiting all the monasteries requires a lot of free time, so sometimes tourists prefer to visit a couple of temples, and just look at the rest from afar. For these purposes, by the way, it is not necessary to climb the pillars to the monasteries. Right next to the main road, there are several observation platforms that offer a picturesque view of Meteora.

What souvenirs to bring from Meteora

You can buy souvenirs in church shops and tents. Usually they buy icons, figurines of saints, postcards with panoramic views, as well as handicrafts with Meteor symbols: cups, plates, glasses, etc. On average, one souvenir spends 3-4 €.

Where are Meteora and how to get there on your own

On the map, the Greek monasteries of Meteora are located in the northern part of the country, in the mountains of Thessaly. The closest city to the sights is Kalambaka (2 km south of Meteora). You can get here on your own in several ways.

From Athens

A direct train runs from the capital twice a day to Kalambaka. Ticket price - 20 €, trip duration - 4.5 hours. Traveling from Athens to Meteora by bus to the town of Trikala will take 5 hours and cost 25 €. Next, you should make a transfer to Kalambaka, which will require another hour on the road and 2 € for a ticket. By car along the E-75 highway, the journey time will be 4 hours.

From Thessaloniki

There are also direct trains from Thessaloniki to Kalambaka. The journey will take 3 hours, the ticket costs 12-18 €. Buses run daily from 4 times a day: travel time is almost 3 hours, a round-trip ticket (including transfers in Trikala) will cost 30 €. When buying this ticket, the price includes travel from Thessaloniki to Trikala and from Trikala to Kalambaki. From Thessaloniki to Trikala: all days of the week, schedule: 8:30 - 20:30, the interval between departures is the same as the previous flight. The cost is 18.70 euros one way, 29 euros round trip. Duration about three hours.

From the bus station KTEL Trikala: From Thessaloniki to Trikala depart at 8:30 to 20:30, with breaks from 2 to 3.5 hours. On Sunday, an additional flight at 18:30.

From Trikala to Kalambaki, buses run approximately once an hour, and at lunchtime twice, from 5:15 to 22:30 every day and from 5:15 to 22:30 on weekends, at intervals of 1-2 hours. The journey will take 40 minutes.

The flight from Kalambaka to Meteora runs from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm daily, every two hours. When you transfer to the Trikala-Kalambaki bus, you will have time to relax and enjoy Greek coffee with pastries.

By car, the trip from Thessaloniki takes 2.5 hours.

Hotels near the monasteries of Meteora

The nearest accommodation is located in the city of Kalambaka, i.e. 0.5-5 km from the monasteries. The choice is large, so there are apartments for every taste. Among the popular ones for booking, we note:

For convenient accommodation, try to take care of booking hotels in advance.

Fascinating trips and unforgettable impressions!

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Meteora (in Greek "meteoros" means "hovering in the air") - these are massive rocks, on the tops of which one of the main shrines of Greece, the monasteries of Meteora, is located. Impenetrable, cut off from the world, the tops of the rocks have become a haven for hermits since the 11th century. In the 14th century, the first monastic communities arose here, six of which are still active today. Previously, tourists could climb here only with the help of monks and a complex system of ropes, baskets, carts and horse-drawn power. Today, a good asphalt road has been laid from Kalambaka to the monasteries, leading to unique frescoes, libraries that store rare medieval manuscripts, icons and priceless shrines.

How to get there

Meteora is located in the heart of mainland Greece, so getting here is very convenient from all over Hellas. This is an ideal place not only for pilgrims, but also for active travelers. Surroundings Meteora is an excellent starting point for tours and excursions to ancient Macedonian sites, Mount Olympus, Pelion, Volos. There are 3 main ways to get here: by bus, by train and by car. More about them on this page.

Weather in Meteora

Monasteries of Meteor

The monastery of Agiou Nikolaou Anapavs (Saint Nicholas) was founded around 1500 by Metropolitan Dionisy of Larisa. The main temple is decorated with paintings by the famous Cretan artist Theophan Batas-Strelitzas.

Rusanu Monastery was founded in 1545 by the brothers Joasaph and Maxim. The interior is decorated with magnificent paintings, a wooden altar with carvings and gilding, interesting icons and precious lecterns.

Varlaam Monastery was founded in 1517 by Feofan and Nektary Apsara. The frescoes of its main cathedral were made in 1548 by Franco Catalano, a famous artist of the post-Byzantine period. The monastery has a significant collection of rare manuscripts, carved wooden crosses, relics, shrouds embroidered with gold, and icons.

In the monastery of Agnas Triadas, there is an interesting chapel, which can be reached by climbing 140 steps carved into the rock.

Monastery Megalo Meteoro (Savior Transfiguration) was founded around 1400 by one of the greatest ascetics in the history of Orthodox monasticism, Athanasius of Meteor. In 1552, the famous master Feofan worked here. The frescoes he painted became one of the best examples of post-Byzantine monumental painting. The temple contains a considerable number of valuable icons of the 14th and 16th centuries, and the museum collection of the monastery is located in the old refectory.

In the monastery of Agnas Triadas (Holy Trinity), there is an interesting chapel, which can be reached by climbing 140 steps carved into the rock.

Monastery of Agiou Stefanou (St. Stephen) is the only convent in Meteora. It contains the head of the saint, donated to the monastery by the ruler of Wallachia, Vladislav. The monastery is famous for its valuable relics.

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Between the cosmic bodies falling to the earth and the monasteries of Meteora in Greece, there is one connecting thread that is "hidden" in the sound of the Greek word μετέωρα.

In the first case, it means phenomena or signs in the sky, and in the second, highlands, elevated places.

There is another translation option: floating in the air. It was this meaning that the Monk Athanasius put into the name of the mountain Platilifos, giving it a new name. In one of the local caves, he carried out his exploits, offering unceasing prayers. Over time, this name was given to all the rocks surrounding Platilifos, and the latter was called the Great Meteors.

History of the monastery complex

Byzantine ascetics of piety, striving for a silent and harsh life in unceasing prayer, have long chosen the picturesque peaks of the Thessalian rocks for their exploits.

Hard-to-reach caves, located on steep slopes, reliably fenced hermits not only from the sin-loving customs of the world, but also from political persecution.

Some hid here during the time of iconoclastic persecution, others came here to escape the invasion of the Crusaders, Vikings and corsairs.

The Monk Athanasius, later nicknamed Meteora, together with his mentor, the God-bearing elder Gregory, arrived here from a cell that was built on the very top of Mount Athos.

Fleeing from the raids of the corsairs, with the blessing of the Archbishop of Servia Jacob, they settled on the open high rock Stylos near the town of Stagi, where they offered prayers in an abandoned church, which shepherds had hollowed out in the rock long before.

But local residents began to come here for various advice, destroying the established spiritual rhythm of the ascetics.

In search of a place for solitary prayer, the Monk Athanasios, having received a blessing from Elder Gregory, climbed to the top of the highest mountain, Platilifos (wide stone).

Here he settled in a deserted cave.

Subsequently, under the leadership of the Monk Athanasius, the buildings of the main monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ were built on this site, and his disciples and spiritual successors, living according to the charter, very similar to Athos, continued the construction of new complexes.

The heyday of the latter came in the sixteenth century, when the monasteries of Meteora numbered 24 cloisters.

Those wishing to get to the tops of the rocks climbed here on wooden hinged ladders.

In some places, the monks raised pilgrims and pilgrims to their inaccessible piers using special nets - people sat in them, like in a cable car.

The occupation of Greece and subsequent looting by the Italian and German fascists in 1940-44 brought the monasteries of Meteora into an unprecedented decline.

After the troubled times of the Second World War and the Greek Civil War (1946-49), only one quarter of the former splendor of the monastery complex in Meteora was restored, among the survivors there are two convents and four male monasteries.

Where are the monasteries of Meteora located, when to visit them?

Meteora is located in Northern Greece, a few hours drive from Thessaloniki. The holy monasteries are spread to the north and west of the Thessalian town of Kalambaka at a distance of several kilometers.

The most eastern of them - Convent of St. Stephen the First Martyr, which is open for visits from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to five (in winter) and six (in summer) in the evening. It is always closed on Mondays. It should be noted that in the concept of the Greeks, the period from April 1 to October 31 is called summer, and in winter - from November 1 to March 31.

A little to the west, behind the ridges of the rocks, on the top of the mountain-tower perched monastery in the name of the Holy Trinity. Thursday is a “non-reception” day here. In summer, you can visit it from nine in the morning to five in the evening, and in winter there is a break from 12:30 to 15:00 in this time period.

Convent of the Great Martyr Barbara, called Rusanu, located northwest of Kalambaka and west (about two kilometers) from the monastery of St. Trinity. It is closed on Wednesdays and only in winter, and in summer it receives tourists and pilgrims from nine in the morning to five in the evening. In winter, in the middle of the day (from 13:00 to 15:00), the monastery of the Great Martyr Barbara is closed.

At a distance of a little more than a kilometer to the west from Rusanu, there are buildings abode of All Saints, called Varlaam Monastery. It is closed on Fridays all year round, and on Thursdays only in winter. On other days in summer, the doors of the monastery are open to visitors from nine to sixteen, and in winter - from 9:00 to 17:00, but from one to three there is a break for cleaning.

Monastery Great Meteor is located at a distance of just over a kilometer to the south-west of Varlaam's monastery. It is closed on Tuesdays all year round, and on Wednesdays in winter. On other days, you can visit it from nine in the morning to five in the evening, but in winter from 13:00 to 15:00 the monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ is closed.

The southernmost in the complex is small Monastery of Nicholas Anapavsas- less than a kilometer from Preobrazhensky. In winter it is closed, and in summer it is open for visits from nine to six.

How to get to Meteora?

It is possible to come to the Meteora Monasteries along different roads in Greece, but first you need to arrive in Kalambaka, which is located very close to the ancient complex.

From Athens, they get here without transfers both by bus and by train.
It will be cheaper to buy tickets in both directions.

Train number 884 departs from the capital of Greece from Larissis station to Kalambaka, and returns back at number 885.

Travel time by rail is about five hours, the cost for two is 45-50 euros.

On the highway from Athens to Kalampaka through Lamia, Domokos, Karditsa and Trikala, the meter “winds” about 360 kilometers.

There are very few signs on a fairly convenient road, so it is not recommended for those who have never been here to travel by personal transport.

Kalampaki can be reached by bus departing from the station in Athens from Terminal B from 7:30 to 15:30 every 2 hours. Travel time is about four and a half hours. The cost of such a trip is a little more than thirty euros.

There is a direct train to Kalambaka from Thessaloniki, the journey time is about three hours, and the ticket price is just under 20 euros. There are options with transfers, but it is easier and cheaper to get a direct route.

Arriving in Kalambaka, you should walk to the Plateia Dimarhiou fountain, next to which there is a bus stop.

At 8:20 and 13:20 on weekends, and on weekdays - at 9:00 and at 13:30, buses leave from here to the village of Kastraki, and from there they go to the walls of the main monastery - the Transfiguration of Christ.

Near the fountain, the owners of cars are taxiing, which can take them to any of the six monasteries.
But they will have to pay much more.

Excursions are very often organized in Meteora Monasteries.
Excursions can be ordered via the Internet - there are many sites where Russian-speaking guides offer their services at negotiated prices.

If you are going to visit the monasteries of Meteora, respect their inhabitants.

While in prayer monasteries, remember that you can’t joke here, as well as talk a lot and loudly.

It is better for women to wear a dress (at least below the knees) with long sleeves, and for men trousers are desirable.

Instead of slippers, use closed shoes: climbing the 140 steps to the monastery, and hiking along the mountainous paths of the monastery will become noticeably easier.

You can take cameras with you, but it is forbidden to take pictures inside. Therefore, it is advisable to cover your cameras "away from temptation" and take a closer look at the iconography.

The walls of the temple buildings are painted in a very unusual way. Any pilgrim cannot but be amazed by the images made on the walls and the dome of the main cathedral.

There are stunning illustrations of Old Testament and New Testament events.

The expressive faces of the forefathers, patriarchs and prophets look from the walls.

Particularly striking is the picture where Abraham meets three wanderers.

The faces of saints, who are well known in the Russian Church, are also depicted on the walls: the founder of the hermitage Anthony the Great, Theodosius the Cynobiarch, Savva the Sanctified, Theodore Stratilat, Ephraim the Syrian.

The scenes from the life of the God-man are very impressive: the trial before Pilate, Jesus Christ before the Sanhedrin, frightened guards at the empty tomb of the God-man, mockery of the Savior.

You can list for a long time all the icons that are in the monastery and all the natural beauties. But it is better to see once than to constantly read about the unseen.

Monastery of the Holy Trinity

Perched on a rock in the form of a tower about 400 meters high, the monastery of the Holy Life-Giving Trinity is located one and a half kilometers north of Kalambaka. It was founded approximately in the XIV-XV centuries by the monk Dometius, and the inscription on the southern facade of the main cross-domed cathedral says that the temple was founded in 1476.

At the foot of the cliff, on which the buildings of the monastery are built, the river Pinhos carries its waters into the Thermaikos Gulf, and on its opposite bank the peaks of the Pindus ridge, overgrown with forests, rise.

Here, Christians hid from the persecution of the Ottoman Turks during the long period of the occupation of Greece by the Ottoman Empire.

It should be noted that the inhabitants of this monastery, like all other monasteries of Meteora, very strictly monitor the dean's behavior of visitors.

Interestingly, in 1980, during the filming of the movie "For Your Eyes Only" with the participation of James Bond, the monks did not let filmmakers come here.

The film crew, admiring the beauty of the local landscapes, decided to use them in their picture. But the monks closed the gates in front of the “filmmakers”, declaring that the scenes that they were going to capture on film would desecrate the holy place.

Monastery of Varlaam

Located at a distance of a kilometer northeast of the Great Meteors, the Varlaam Monastery begins its history from the fourteenth century, when a hermit named Varlaam settled in this place. And by the middle of the sixteenth century, two brothers from the town of Yanina, Theophanes and Nectarios, with the participation of several other ascetics, were building the Cathedral of All Saints.

During the construction of the building, tuff was used - the material is very light and easy to process. That is why it did not require a large number of people to build it. But by the grace of God, the cathedral still stands and functions, unlike the chapel of the Three Hierarchs (hierarchs), which is closed for tours.

In the main temple, there are enough amazing images on the columns: here you can find the faces of Pimen the Great, Macarius of Egypt, the Monk Onuphrius and the Monk Martyr Moses Murin, who in his youth led a gang of robbers.

When visiting this monastery, be sure to pay attention to the famous composition depicted on the western wall of the temple: the great father Sisoy, who lived in the fifth century in the deserts of Egypt and enjoyed unquestioned authority among all hermits, knelt down in front of the tomb of Alexander the Great, mourns earthly glory, honors and vanity.

Let us, going on a journey through the amazingly beautiful holy places of Meteora, take for ourselves the example of the Great Sisoy: forget about insults and quarrels, squabbles and intrigues, leave earthly vanity, forgive all ill-wishers and think only about the good.