Known as one of the most important monasteries in the Eastern Orthodox religion, Meteora is located in central Greece. This mountainous formation is home to the largest complex of monasteries in the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Located in north-central Greece, Meteora is a rock formation with ancient monasteries. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape is breathtaking. The cliffs were used by early Christian times as a place to gain spiritual ascension.

Meteora was inhabited by ascetic hermit-monks from the ninth to tenth centuries. They lived in small caves on the cliffs. The monks lived in complete isolation. They depended heavily on the locals for their survival. The hermit-monks met on special occasions and shared provisions.

In the fifteenth and sixteenth century, the monasteries at Meteora flourished. During this time, twenty-four monasteries were built. These monasteries are renowned for their architectural beauty. The monks were also known for their masterly frescoes. During the reign of the Ottomans, the monasteries were beautified.

The monastery of Varlaam dominates the Meteora valley. The main cathedral was built in the sixteenth century. The old Catholicon, which was originally built in the 12th century, was renovated and restored by monk Hosios Philotheos.

Six monasteries

Located in central Greece, the Meteora monasteries are a cluster of six monasteries that have been erected on a series of rocky pillars. The Meteora monastery is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The monasteries are connected by a winding road that leads to the entrance of each. The monasteries have different opening hours. In the summer months, the monasteries are open during the day, while in the winter, they are closed.

The largest monastery in Meteora is the Great Meteoron. The second largest monastery is Varlaam. The monastery has been restored during the 1980s. The monastery has a stunning museum. It also houses the shoulder blade of Saint Andrew.

The first rules of monastic life were written by Athanasius. He fled to the Meteora monasteries from the monastic republic of Athos. In 1334, the religious bloom of the Meteora monasteries began. The monasteries were built over a period of decades.

The Monastery of Rousanou was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988. The monastery is a three-storey structure with a catholicon on the ground floor. The monastery is now used as a nunnery. It has auxiliary spaces on the other floors.

James Bond's Meteora location

During the production of the 1981 James Bond movie 'For Your Eyes Only', the Monastery of the Holy Trinity in Meteora was used as a backdrop. The film also used locations in Corfu and Spain.

The first part of the film takes place in England, while the rest of the action takes place in Italy and Greece. In the movie, Bond reaches the monastery with a windlass. A dastardly henchman tries to kick him off the cliff. The scene is regarded as the most Hitchcockian Bond moment.

The film is also famous for its numerous scenes of violence. It is based on the two short stories written by Ian Fleming. In the movie, Bond is sent to Greece to catch Aristotle Kristatos. He is accompanied by Columbo. The two arrive at a warehouse located in Albania.

The warehouse is a small house in the harbour. It is Kristatos' lair and is also his hideout. In the movie, he has a young girl with him. During the film, he hopes that Bond will say goodbye, Mr. Bond.

Hiking to tour the monasteries

Whether you are interested in the monasteries in Meteora or just wish to have a day trip to the area, a guided tour is a great way to explore the area. For one, you will not have to navigate the hiking trails alone. You will also have a guide to help you make the most of your time.

The Meteora area has many ancient monasteries which are built on a network of hanging pillars. Originally, they were only accessible by rope ladders or by climbing the rock face to the top. Over time, the monasteries have been renovated and they now have bridges and stairs.

The best time to visit the monasteries in Meteora is in the autumn or spring. You will see fewer crowds and you will have more time to enjoy the beautiful scenery. It is also a good idea to arrive when the monasteries are open. During high season, you will find it hard to park.

Having a Meteora excursions with a guide is a great way to explore this amazing location. With a local guide, you will gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual importance of Meteora. You can also explore the caves and other landmarks in the area.

A Meteora excursions with a guide can be organized from any major city in Greece. You can take a train or a bus to get to Meteora. You can hire a tour company to pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the monasteries. You can also walk between the monasteries. There are many things to see in Meteora and it is best to spend at least one full day to complete your excursion.

A Meteora excursions with an expert will be customized to fit your interests and travel budget. You can choose between a road trip tour, an evening tour, and a hiking excursion. You can learn about the history and see all six monasteries in one day.

You can get a detailed map of Meteora at your hotel. You can also download maps on your smartphone. You will want to have a packed lunch when you are visiting Meteora. It can be quite hot in summer, so make sure you have plenty of water with you.

If you want to avoid crowds, consider a hiking excursion. The hike is a wonderful way to explore the monasteries and the surrounding landscape. You can spend up to 30 minutes at each monastery.