Meteora, Greece

The Meteora are a collective of natural sandstone rock pillars, which served as places of worship throughout modern history. With an average elevation of  313 m  the Meteora stand proudly at the center of an extraordinarily beautiful Greek landscape, housing 24 monasteries in total, of  which 6 remain active.

History of Meteora  

The name Meteora stems from the Greek adjective meteoros, which means “middle of the sky”. Aptly named the rock formations of   Meteora   jut out of the ground like giant fingers made of stone, allowing the various monasteries to sit,   suspended in the air. It has taken millions of years for various forces of   nature to sculpt out these unique rock pillars. Geologists believe that this process began approximately 60 millions years ago during the Paleocene period.

As early as the 11^th century monks occupied the caverns of  Meteora. However monasteries were not built until  the 14^th century, when the monks sought somewhere to hide in the face of an increasing number of Turkish attacks on Greece. At this time access to the top was via removable  ladders or windlass. Nowadays getting up is a lot simpler due to steps being carved into the rock during   the   1920’s.  From 24   monasteries only 6 are still functioning with each housing less than 10 individuals.

Climbing Meteora

Meteora is not only a paradise for walkers but for climbers too. In total there are 700 different routes encompassing 120 rock towers of the Meteora and catering for climbers of  all  skill  levels. If you are travelling with the intention of climbing, the best times to visit are between mid – March and mid – June, or between mid – August and mid – November.

Best time to visit Meteora

Given the cultural significance and popularity of Meteora there are visitors all year round. Between December and March the weather is cold and wet, whilst  the months in – between July and October attract the  longest crowds and peak season rates. Therefore the  best time to visit Meteora is May or June in order to benefit from smaller crowds, pleasant weather  and off – season rates.

How to get Meteora

The Meteora rocks are situated right in the heartland of central Greece  ( Thessaly), near the town of  Kalampaka. To get to Kalampaka from Athens you have the option of  travelling  by bus, car or train. If you have a car driving is probably the best way to get to Meteora and should take approximately 4 hours not with standing any traffic. If driving is not an option, you can take a direct high – speed train from Athens to Kalampaka, which will take around 5 hours. Finally and as a last resort, there are buses that can take you from Athens to Kampaka. These depart from Terminal B on Liasson   street and take 7 – 8 hours to arrive.

Things to consider prior to visiting

The monasteries of Meteora operate strict dress codes, meaning that you will not be permitted entrance if  wearing  sleeveless  clothing, or shorts.

The monasteries of Meteora are independent of one another and thus operate different opening times. It is therefore highly recommended that you check in advance.

There is nowhere to buy food around monasteries so remember to bring snacks and fluids.

Walks differ in terms are difficulty and accessibility wear appropriate footwear and make an honest assessment of your fitness level before embarking on a journey too strenuous   for you to enjoy. All of the   Monasteries have a small entrance fee.