Monastery of Great Meteoron

Kalabaka, Greece

The Monastery of Great Meteoron is the largest of the monasteries located at Meteora, though in 2015 there were only 3 monks in residence.

The Great Meteoro Monastery was founded in the mid-14th century by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite who was the first founder of the monastery and the systematic organizer. For this reason, the foundation of this monastery is considered to be a turning point, or even better, the beginning of the organized monastisicm in Holy Meteora. Hosios Athanasios was born around 1302 in the medieval town of New Patras, today’s Hypati.

The Katholikon (main church), consecrated in honour of the Transfiguration of Jesus was erected in the middle of the 14th century and 1387/88 and decorated in 1483 and 1552. The central courtyard is embellished with beautiful 16th century frescoes. Take time to gaze at the artistic details of some of the best samples of Greek Byzantine art and then rush to the museum, where historical codices and religious icons of high value are on display. Once you’ve reached the summit, a rewarding view awaits you and the monastery calls for exploration.

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Address

Meteora, Kalabaka, Greece
See all sites in Kalabaka

Details

Founded: c. 1350
Category: Religious sites in Greece

More Information

www.visitmeteora.travel

Rating

4.8/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby


Varlaam Monastery (0,3 km)
Roussanou Monastery (0,7 km)
Meteora (0,6 km)
Holy Trinity Monastery (1,7 km)
St. Stephen Monastery (2,2 km)
St. Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery (0,3 km)

User Reviews

Sapna Srivastava (14 months ago)
Meteora has its special effects due to the geographical structures. The monk monasteries are one time see but the monk culture has been taken over by churches. There are better places to enjoy the high rise mountains and take pictures.
Rimas Trumpa (14 months ago)
Very beautiful views but large parts of the monastery were closed.
Jason Georgarakis (14 months ago)
Stunning view and a life changing experience. I would definitely recommend it during the winter time. ( If you are a photographer and you want to bring a drone you must take permission from CAA )
David Tsani (15 months ago)
A beautiful holy place which I had the luck of visiting it. Definitely recommend it!!!
Svetlana Sapkina (15 months ago)
This place is very special. It looked for me as another world or another universe. It's great to be here and to feel the spirit. I thought the presence of God feels everywhere and I has the feeling I want to stay here for a long time. Good to know about the open hours ,some of places were closed bcs of renovation or service. You can not visit all territory in monastery but some places and churches. Be prepared for 200-300 stairs in some of them. Visiting places are very good organized and its possible to buy some souvenirs near the entrances. Highly recommended to visit all monasteries
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