Great Meteoron monastery

The Great Meteoron monastery is an Orthodox monastic community built atop a soaring sandstone pillar in the Meteora rock formations of central Greece. The complex contains multiple churches, refectories, living quarters, and storage rooms arranged across the elevated plateau that crowns the natural stone tower.

A monk named Athanasios founded the community in the middle of the 14th century as a retreat from the outside world. The monastery expanded significantly over subsequent generations, becoming one of the most influential religious centers in the Balkans and shaping monastic life throughout the region.

The monastery continues to function as a living religious community where visitors can observe daily Orthodox monastic practices and rituals. The place remains a destination for pilgrims seeking connection with spiritual traditions that shape the identity of the surrounding region.

Access requires climbing carved stone steps built directly into the rock face, so wearing sturdy shoes and maintaining good footing is essential. Plan extra time for the ascent and be prepared for steep passages, especially if you are not accustomed to mountain walking.

Monks once pulled visitors up the rock face using ropes and nets, a method that kept the community isolated for centuries. This practice ended only when stone steps were carved into the rock, fundamentally changing how outsiders could reach the sacred space.

Location: Meteora Municipality

Inception: 14 century

Part of: Meteora

Address: G, Kalampaka 422 00, Greece

Opening Hours: 09:30-15:00; Tuesday off; November-March Thursday-Monday 09:30-14:00; November-March Tuesday-Wednesday off

Phone: +302432022278

Website: https://meteoromonastery.gr

GPS coordinates: 39.72633,21.62629

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:40