The Monastery of Holy Trinity
The Monastery of Holy Trinity - Agia Triada – Meteora’s Cliff-Perched Gem
The Monastery of Holy Trinity, known as the Monastery of Agia Triada in Greek, is one of Meteora’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. While it ranks among the more challenging monasteries to access, the experience is rewarding for those willing to walk the path.
Visitors embarking on the steep, albeit short, trail and stairs are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and the picturesque town of Kalabaka below. Located just a 10-minute walk from Agios Stefanos monastery, the Monastery of Holy Trinity is situated atop a stunning pillar-like rock that rises approximately 300 meters above Kalabaka. For those interested in exploring further, the old trail once used by the monks can be found at the base of the cliff, providing a fascinating path down to the town of Kalabaka.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a history buff, the Monastery of Holy Trinity offers a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of the Meteora region.
Useful info - Timetable
- Summer timetable
Visiting Hours: 10:00 to 16:00. The monastery stays closed on Thursdays. - Winter timetable
Visiting Hours: 10:00 to 16:00. The monastery stays closed on Thursdays. - Contact Number
+30 24320 22220 - Everyone must wear appropriate clothing to enter the monastery. Sleeveless clothing and shorts over the knee are prohibited for men, and you‘ll be denied access if you wear them. For ladies, skirts and shawls are available at the entrance in case they don’t have such clothing to cover themselves.
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The Monastery's History
The records regarding the initial establishment of the monastery are somewhat unclear. Still, it is known to have existed as a monastery since at least the year 1362, as indicated in a document by Symeon Uressis Palaeologus from that same year.
The first founder of the monastery is believed to be a monk named Dometious, who lived on the cliff during the 14th century. The monastery’s main chapel, or Catholicon, is dedicated to the Holy Trinity and was built in the 15th century. The iconography and frescoes of the chapel were painted between the 17th and 18th centuries. Additionally, the monastery has a smaller chapel dedicated to John the Baptist, constructed in the 17th century.
Like most other monasteries in Meteora, the Monastery of Agia Triada fell into decline and was abandoned by the early 20th century. In 1909, a small group of Greek archaeologists surveying the monastery accidentally discovered a crypt containing 47 rare parchments and ancient codices. By 1925, the local bishop, with the community’s assistance, completed the stairs to ensure safe access to the monastery.
During World War II, the Monastery of the Holy Trinity suffered significant damage, with one of its main buildings burning. The monastery underwent extensive renovations in the 1970s and remains an active and open monastery for visitors.
For Your Eyes Only
Holy Trinity Monastery gained celebrity status among the other monasteries of Meteora when it was featured in the 1981 James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only.” The film stars Roger Moore as the iconic secret agent, alongside Carole Bouquet, Chaim Topol, Julian Glover, and others. This classic Bond film portrays the monastery as the abandoned mountaintop monastery of St. Cyril.
Although the film’s producers initially secured permission from the Greek Ministry of Culture to shoot inside the Holy Trinity, the monks of Meteora strongly opposed this decision. As a result, the producers were only allowed to film the monastery’s exterior. They had to construct an entirely new set that resembled a monastery on a nearby cliff for the indoor scenes.
Filming at the site lasted for several months, during which many locals participated in the production, serving as stunt performers and technical crew. This early ’80s James Bond film brought global fame and attention to Meteora for the first time. As a result, Meteora and the Holy Trinity Monastery have since secured their place among the most recognizable landmarks in Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions about Holy Trinity Monastery
Access involves a short hike and a stair climb (~140 steps). Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a physical effort.
Aside from its spiritual and historical importance, it was featured in the 1981 James Bond film For Your Eyes Only.
Yes — it’s the most visually striking and rewarding for its solitude, views, and cinematic background.
Yes, but guided tours provide valuable historical insight and transport
In each monastery there is an entrance fee of 5 euro per person. Kids up to 12 years old they don’t pay entrance fees in the monasteries.
There are many reasons not to want to drive while exploring Meteora — like if you’re not confident driving on the opposite side of the road, your spouse is a terrible copilot and you just want to have fun instead of arguing; or if you want to enjoy the scenic road and not to feel stress about the narrow and curvy roads. Lack of parking space outside the monasteries is especially frequent phenomenon during the pick period in the summer. So by joining one of our tours might save you a lot of headaches and unwanted distractions.
Location of Holy Trinity Monastery on the Map
Explore an UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Monastery of Varlaam
The Holy Monastery of Varlaam is the second biggest monastery of Meteora. Located very close to Great Meteoro Monastery, it was founded in the mid 14th century by a monk named Varlaam. Varlaam managed to climb on the cliff around 1350 and followed by a few other monks he was able to establish the monastery.
The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos
The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos, also known as the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas, is the first monastery open to the public on the way to Meteora from Kastraki Village. Founded at the end of the 14th century.
The Monastery of Great Meteoron
The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, located at Meteora, Greece, is the biggest and oldest of all. It is called the monastery, which remains “suspended in the air” (meteoro), because of the cliff formation of a gigantic rock on top of which it was built.
The Monastery of Roussanou
The Holy Monastery of Roussanou, situated in Meteora, was founded in the 14th century. It received the name probably from the first hermit-monk who settled on the rock during that period. The main cathedral was founded at the end of the 16th century.
The Monastery of Agios Stefanos
The monastery of Agios Stefanos, also known as St. Stephen, is the most accessible of all the Meteora monasteries. Visitors can easily reach its entrance by crossing a small bridge, making it an ideal destination for those with mobility issues.
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