Now, if you have always loved Greek stories, Greek food, heck, even Greek movies then why not go to the source – Greece! You can live out your very own Greek adventure in a spiffy little place called Meteora. But here is the thing: this is not one of those glitzy touristy spots– this place has loads of great places to see – sure – but there is quite a lot of religion steeped into this place, too. And it is something worth seeing. Ready to live out a gorgeous Greek experience like no other Meteora is waiting for, and this is what’s in store!
A Glimpse into History
Stepping onto the soil of Meteora is like stepping into some long, not-so-forgotten piece of history and a natural marvel. So Meteora is pretty much a masterpiece that literally looks like it was sculpted by God – with rock formations that the experts say were shaped by earthquakes and erosion. This has created some pretty spectacular rock formations.
Now, some monks stumbled upon this glorious place that looked like it was floating and decided that it was just the sort of spot they were looking for. Where they could be all by their lonesome and get closer to God, they named it Meteora, which means suspended in the air, then decided to build some gorgeous and epic architectural monasteries – 24 to be exact. And while they are all not functional places of worship in the modern day (only six are), they are still standing as a testament that you can go and geek out over!
Epic Monasteries
These monasteries are much like people and their fingerprints – they are not the same. Say you stop over at Great Meteoron – the biggest and oldest of the bunch you are in, for impressive frescoes and a museum filled with quite the treasures! And with Varlaam Monastery, you are going to some views and feel like you are close to heaven!
Spectacular Views and Hiking Adventures
One of the most exciting parts of Meotera is the breathtaking views that you uncover around every corner. Whether it is the natural stuff, aka the lush green valleys, or the view from up above of towns and villages, there is quite a lot for your eyes to behold. You can also hike and walk through this place to get to those really awesome hidden nooks and crannies. And if you don’t want to take on Meteora solo armed with just your Google knowledge, you can get a guided tour that can give the history only a local would know!
Local Legends and Mystique
Filled with history and legends, Meteora holds many wonders that will capture your imagination. One famous story tells of monks who believed they were closer to god if they lived “closer” to heaven on the mountain summits, so they used ropes and pulleys to get to the monasteries. Walking these paths while exploring their monasteries, you really do feel the mysteries around these years-old tales.
Best Times to Visit and Practical Tips
To fully enjoy the beauty of Meteora, consider visiting in the spring (April-June) or fall (September-October), when the weather is going to be comfortable and the tourist hordes would have subsided. The morning and “golden hour” (an hour before sunset) are the best times to take pictures of Meteora’s monasteries. And don’t forget your hiking boots and water!
Meteora: The Transcendent Experience Of A Lifetime
There is nothing like immersing yourself in a place that simply oozes religious tones and absolutely epic architecture that you will have to see to believe. Meteora is just the sort of place that will etch itself into your memory, much like the giant rock columns in this place. And if you want to figure out how to get there – go dig out that passport and hightail it to Seeplaces!
Conclusion
Meteora is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that transcends time and place. From the awe-inspiring monasteries perched high above the earth to the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes, Meteora offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in both natural wonder and spiritual history. Whether you’re exploring the ancient frescoes, hiking to hidden viewpoints, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, every moment spent in Meteora is a reminder of the timeless connection between mankind and nature. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and let Meteora be the unforgettable Greek adventure you’ve always dreamed of.