Day 9 - Meteora

Metéora
is one of the largest and most important complex of monestaries in Greece. The monasteries are built on natural sandstone rock pillars, at the northwestern edge of the Plain of Thessaly near the Peneios river and Pindus Mountains, in central Greece. The Metéora is home to six monasteries. Although it is unknown when Metéora was established, as early as the 11th century AD hermit monks were believed to be living among the caves and cutouts in the rocks. By the late 11th or early 12th century a rudimentary monastic state had formed called the Skete of Stagoi and was centered around the church of Theotokos, which still stands today. The hermit monks, seeking a retreat from the expanding Turkish occupation, found the inaccessible rock pillars of Meteora to be an ideal refuge. Although more than 20 monasteries were built, beginning in the 14th century, only six remain today. These six are: Great Meteoron (or Transfiguration), Varlaam, St. Stephen, Holy Trinity, St. Nicholas Anapausas and Rousanou.

Meteora was bar-none the most amazing landscape I had ever seen. Unique and awe-inspiring landscapes with a rich history and monk culture. After many days of ruins and a lot of history, Meteora was a much needed break from the monotony. I don't have any photos inside because it is a sacred place and photos are not allowed, but these are what I do have.


I had to take a portrait with the strange rounded mountains in the background.
View of a monastery from the road
Beautiful Byzantine art covered every part of the buildings, I just stared at the art the whole time, our tour guide explained to us the significance and style painted in every single monastery. I loved this part of the trip. The beautiful flower garden at a nunnery.

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