The story of Meteora starts millions of years ago when the land was submerged under a huge sea. The gorgeous rock formations were eroded by nature throughout the centuries. Jumping to the 14th century, an austere group of monks seeking spiritual shelter and private escape from Ottoman brutality and church persecution started to construct monasteries on imposing rock columns. The idea was to rise high above worldly temptations and make an escape into the heavens.
Meteora once sheltered 24 monasteries. Today, six are still active, each with its charm and a long history behind them. They are masterpieces of architecture that harmoniously marry with their natural surroundings.
The Spectacular Views of Meteora
The breathtaking views are one of the strongest suits of Meteora. From the edge of the forbidding cliffs, the immense Pindus mountain range frames the horizon, while the boundless plains are stretching to infinity down below. The rocks seem to acquire an orange hue at dawn and dusk, making the surreal scenery even more captivating.
Whether you’re an amateur or pro, Meteora provides numerous photo opportunities. You don’t have to flex your lenses a great deal to bring home some exceptional shots from this place.
Guided Tours and Hiking Adventures
Sightseeing in Meteora is like no other. Guided monastery visits will give you access to the interior of the monasteries and exhilarating stories of their history and importance. Guides will tell you how the monks at the time used pulleys and baskets to lift the material from below and how they winched fellow monks and goods to the top.
Outdoor lovers rejoice. There are a variety of hiking trails surrounding the area, offering the best of Meteora’s stunning nature. You can walk on terrain interconnected with chapels and caves used by monks as hermit-like dwellings, gathering a taste of the devotion in solitude.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
To make the most of your visit, plan it for spring or fall, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. The summers can be too hot – and in the winter – some places might be closed due to snow.
Start your visit as early as possible to avoid the crowds and have the monasteries all for yourself. Long sleeves and pants are much appreciated and shoes with good grips are a must. Meteora is by no means an easy place to reach.
If you have time for only one, see the Great Meteoron Monastery. It’s the biggest, oldest, and considered one of the most important. Are you ready for your Meteora trip? Find out more and get going on seeplaces.com.