This stunning formation of rocks is located in the heart of the mainland of Greece, in Thessaly Region. 60 million years ago, Meteora was covered by sea. The current geological phenomenon was gradually created by tectonic deformation and erosion.
In the fertile valley of Kalambaka Town, some 800 sandstone rocks are rising up to 400-meter height from the ground. In the 14th century, these impressive rock formations were named “Meteora”, by the founder of the first monastery, Saint Athanasios. “Meteora” means “suspended in the air” and this is how the cluster of monasteries has been called ever since.
The first hermits were settled in the natural caves of the rocks, in the 11th-12th century. After the establishment of the Great Meteoron Monastery, the monks founded more between the 14th and the 16th century. In total, the monks built twenty-four monasteries on the peaks of the rocks, to protect themselves and avoid prosecution by the Ottomans.
Without access to the rocks, the workers and construction materials were transferred with the use of ropes, long ladders, baskets and nets. People were literally left in the hands of God. Inspired by the byzantine architecture, decorated by well known painters and craftsmen, the monasteries became an important religious pilgrimage.
Today, six of the twenty-four monasteries are active. Meteora was added to the UNESCO ‘World Heritage List” in 1988, as a mixed site, both for the natural environment and the cultural significance.
Doucas Tours & Travel offers holiday packages in Kalambaka and Meteora.
Access to Meteora: By car or train from Athens and Thessaloniki.
The packages include:
- Accommodation in selected hotels of all categories.
- Transfers or Car Rental.
- Shared or private tours, winery visits and wine-tasting.
- Tailor-made Day-by-Day itinerary.
This program applies to Individuals (All year round). Request a quotation.
