Through the Heights of Meteora

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Experience a different high of spirituality and another dimension of peacefulness through the silence, stillness and sacredness of monasteries perched atop huge pillars of rocks found in Meteora Greece.

Pander in awe as each fascinating edifice stand in unuttered dignity and eminence.

Location

This haven of wonder is seated near the towns of Kalampaka and Kastraki of Thessaly region in Northern Greece. Set to be 200 – 600 meters high, early remains suggest that hermits and ascetics dwelled on these rock pinnacles dating back in 11th century.

During the time of upheaval because of series of Turkish attacks, settlers climbed from the foot of the mountains up atop these rock facades for security and tranquility that is being called for on the monastery kind of living.

Climate

There is a broad climatic variation on this site. Higher altitudes can experience storm throughout the year while other locations experience either hot summer, super cold winter accompanied by heavy snowfalls.

Transportation

To get into Meteora by air, tourists can go through Central Europe via Volos Airport situated in Central Greece. From there, travel a two hour car drive to Meteora. Bus option is also available via Volos to Kalampaka. Train ride can be made from Athens in Larissa Station.

Moving around Meteora itself, it is suggested by locals to appreciate the place by walking. Mountain climbing and hiking can also be an activity to take advantage of the high rock formations found within the place.

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Attractions

Agia Triada Monastery

Seen in the 1981 James Bond movie, this monastery which is also called Holy Trinity was believed to be built in 1947.

Tourists can experience the impressive sight from its tip by climbing around 140 steps. Today, this monastery serves as a home to only one monk that also serves s a guide to Agia Triada’s visitors.

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Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas

Founded in 14th century, the monastery through series of renovations stood in three floors.

This monastery is known for decorated frescoes painted by Crete painter Theophanes Strelitzas.

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Agios Stephanos Monastery

This is the only monastery in Meteora that is visible to the naked eye from Kalambaka and is built on a lower rock tip.

After the Nazi aggression, the monastery was then taken care of and reconstructed by nuns.

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Varlaam Monastery

Named after the monk who first inhabited the place, the monastery is being consisted by three churches and a water tank.

After Varlaam died, brothers Theophane and Nektarios did some renovations in the place. The monastery also has a fine museum that shows collections of relics and wooden crosses.

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Images:
(1) http://images.nationalgeographic.com/wpf/media-live/photos/000/607/cache/meteora-monastery-greece_60700_990x742.jpg
(2) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v452/kate_dogma/for%20Web/MAP_ROUTE_2012.jpg
(3) http://www.lovethesepics.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Meteora-Holy-Trinity-Agia-Triada-monastery.jpg
(4) http://travel.smart-guide.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/Monastery-of-Agios-Nikolaos-Anapafsas-Meteora.JPG
(5) http://www.mikereyfman.com/Photography-Landscape-Nature/Meteora-Monasteries-Greece/big/MR0138.jpg
(6) http://worldalldetails.com/sightseeing/meteora_greece_459185.jpg