The Floating Monasteries of Meteora

In the heart of Greece, east of the Pindus Mountains and on the outskirts of the small town of Kalambaka, unique and almost bizarrely shaped sandstone cliffs rise into the sky. These are the cliffs on which the Meteora monasteries are situated - there were originally 24 of these structures.

Six of them are still inhabited by monks and nuns today, while the others are either too difficult to access or at risk of collapsing. Depending on the weather, the Meteora monasteries, which are now a UNESCO World Heritage site, can appear to float in the air when cloaked in mist or low-hanging clouds. A sight that captivates and inspires the desire to see these monasteries perched on cliffs up to 500 meters high up close.

As soon as you enter the Greek region of Thessaly and approach the Meteora monasteries near Kalambaka, the first visitors are in awe. The massive rock pinnacles are a truly unique geological phenomenon, many even call it a true natural wonder. Where today there are roads and footpaths leading to the monasteries, there were once only smooth rocks that made it nearly impossible to reach the top of a cliff.

It's no wonder one wonders how these towering monasteries were built between heaven and earth? The first monks are said to have arrived in the area in the 11th century. During the peak of the Late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, the first monasteries were finally established in various, sometimes unimaginable, locations. The building materials were reportedly hoisted up with ropes and pulleys, and sometimes even the monks themselves. Alternatively, they used ladders for climbing. It was not until later that special paths were built to make the ascent easier and also to allow visitors to tour some of the still-existing monasteries.

One of the most well-known cliffs is that with the Agia Triada Monastery, as it has served as a filming location for the successful James Bond movie 'For Your Eyes Only' from 1981 - despite the monks' resistance. The monastery, built in the 15th century on a bizarre rock formation - one of the four monasteries open for interior visits - is worth seeing not only for its distinctive architecture but also for the breathtaking view of the valley and the surrounding landscape of Meteora.

However, it is not just this one famous monastery that attracts numerous tourists from around the world to the unique Meteora cliffs year after year. The other monasteries, such as the Monastery of Metamorphosis with its former refectory and many religious golden woodcut artworks, or the quaint little Rousanou Monastery, are also worth a visit. However, be aware that during your visit, you must dress appropriately; arms and shoulders should be covered, men must wear long pants, and women should wear long skirts.

And lastly, a small, important tip: Try to plan your trip as early as possible, as especially during the high season and holidays, you may escape the impending tourist rush.

The operating hours of the monasteries vary depending on the season. Therefore, you should check the current times before your arrival to avoid standing in front of closed gates.

Who of you has ever been to this impressive place or would really like to take a short trip to the Meteora monasteries? If you suffer from acrophobia, it's certainly not a good idea, as both the journey there and the subsequent ascent to the monasteries present some views into the deep valley. Views that are absolutely breathtaking and priceless for experienced hikers.

Info & Tips in the Free Greece Travel Guide

Mainland Greece

Here you still have the beaches all to yourself

Top 6 Hidden Gems in Athens

The Greek capital shines with diversity away from the hustle and bustle

Greece Attractions

Top 15 Attractions in Greece