St. Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery, Kalabaka, Greece

St. Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery is one of six monasteries built on immense natural pillars and hill-like rounded boulders that dominate the local area of Meteora.

Hermits seem to have first occupied this rock in the early 14th century, as evidenced by remains of frescoes in the Chapel of St. Anthony. The present monastery was founded in 1510 by St. Dionysius, Metropolitan of Larisa, and Nikanoras, priest-monk and exarch of Stagoi. The name 'Anapafsas' is of unknown origin; it may be the surname of an early monk or founder.

The monastery was abandoned by 1900 and fell into disrepair until it was renovated in the 1960s by the archaeological service. It was then inhabited by Father Palamas until 1982, after which the monastery closed. In 1997, priests of Kalampaka began to open the monastery to tourists every summer. Today, one monk lives at Agios Nikolaos, the abbot archimandrite Polykarpos Venetis.

References:

Sacred Destinations

User Reviews

Elisheva Ben - Ari (12 months ago)
St. Nicholas makes for another great photo opportunity. Founded in 1368, it has got a tiny church, but well worth visiting for it's magnificent views. Entrance Fee: 3 Euro. Amount of steps: You need to climb a steep hill, followed by 300 steps.

shiny arun (13 months ago)
A must visit! Hanging monasteries on top of these huge rocks with ancient history is truly incredible. If possible hire a guide with you to know more about the place & monasteries there.

Dina Weeb (13 months ago)
A hidden gem, small and tranquil, yet boasting one of the most important collections of post-byzantine art. Quite a climb, but well worth it.

Thomas Harrison (2 years ago)
Wonderful views and one of the more impressive chapels with very authentic iconography. Definitely worth visiting!

M MAXIM (2 years ago)
Impressive location. You can get there by car. Worth visiting.

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