Imagine a monastery perched atop a pillar of rock several hundred feet above the valleys below. If you want to visit the monastery, you'll need to be prepared to climb a long series of winding stone staircases.
Monastery of the Holy Trinity - Metéora |
Now imagine six such monasteries clustered together in a small area, and you'll have an idea what awaits intrepid tourists at Metéora.
Varlaám Monastery - Metéora |
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Metéora in Northern Greece has a rugged terrain featuring enormous rock outcroppings towering up to 1,800 feet above the surrounding plane.
Towering Rock Formations - Metéora |
Hermetic monks began to settle in this area in the late Middle Ages. The challenging terrain discouraged visitors and marauders from disturbing their encampments.
Eventually, the monks began to build monasteries on the peaks of the rock spires. More than twenty monasteries were constructed, but only six remain in existence today.
The Monastery of St. Stephen at Dusk |
Metéora is a fascinating destination for any traveler who can manage the stair climbing that's required.
Metéora at Sunset |
Camera: Nikon D800E
Lenses: Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II
Wishing you great light and meaningful moments!
Copyright 2014 Daniel R. South
All Rights Reserved
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