As we needed one travel day to go from the Mount Olympus area to Athens (a 4-5 hour car ride), we decided to plan our route through an area called Meteora. The actual name “Meteora” means ‘suspended in the air.’ As we drove into the area and saw the monasteries sitting atop the rocky mountains, there is no doubt why it’s called Meteora.
Monasteries Hidden in the Fog
As we arrived, we were a bit frustrated that it was cloudy, rainy, and cold.
Monasteries on Edge
Fog Lifting
As we drove up to the first monastery, Moni Varlaam, the fog lifted. We were thrilled, but then were still surprised by a passing rain storm. We debated heading down the mountain at that point.
Thankfully, we decided to keep going up the mountain to Moni Megalou Meteora (The Grand Monastery). This is the best known monastery because it’s built on the highest rock in the valley.
The Grand Monastery
It was quite interesting to walk around the monastery, which was built in the mid-14th century, to think it is still in use today.
Place of Reverence
For Prayer and Reflection
Staying Dry under Rock Overhang
The large main building serves as a museum for tourists. It was interesting to walk around and connect the dots through history how the monks lives evolved.
Shepherd Supplies
Crypt
Even with all the interesting history within the walls, the outside of the monastery was breathtaking. It’s no wonder that the monks sought this area to remove themselves from the world and commune with God.
Modelling the Modest Skirt Given at Entrance
Family Selfie
Inner Courtyard
Psalms Upon Departure
I’m not sure if it was the stark contrast of the view from when we arrived or not, but the landscape in the full sunshine (after a bit of rain) was truly amazing!
Looking Back on The Grand Monastery
On Way Back Down Mountain
Moni Varlaam in the Sun
Valley View
Meteora Bathed in Sun
Selfie Happy
Having taken the Meteora detour, we still had 5 hours to drive to Athens. It was a little stressful to find our hotel in the centre of the city, but once we did, it felt good to be out of the car for awhile, looking forward to the final chapters of our trip.
Final Hotel Room
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