Fly with Helicopter to Meteora from Athens for a Daily Tour!
Metéora, situated in central Greece`s Thessaly region, consists of Eastern Orthodox monasteries, ranking second in importance only to Mount Athos. This UNESCO World Heritage Site derives its name from the Greek word "Meteora," signifying "suspended in the air." This accurately portrays the magnificent sight of the monasteries perched on colossal rock pillars rising over 400 meters above the Peneas Valley and Kalambaka.
The origins of Metéora can be traced back to the 11th century when hermit monks sought seclusion in the region`s remote caves. By the 14th century, the monasteries were constructed as a refuge from invasions, providing a tranquil sanctuary for prayer, meditation, and spiritual retreats. Six of the original 24 monasteries are still active today, preserving ancient traditions and offering visitors insight into the monastic way of life.
The architectural brilliance of these monasteries is genuinely remarkable, seamlessly blending with the natural rock formations. Each monastery is a feat of design and engineering, fusing spiritual purpose with the landscape`s rugged beauty. They house valuable religious artefacts, manuscripts, and frescoes, making them not just places of worship but also cultural and historical treasures.
Visitors to Metéora can explore these monasteries, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, and embrace the tranquillity and spirituality that have characterised the site for centuries. It is a compelling testament to human determination to seek greater meaning in a place of remarkable natural beauty.