Kastraki Village

Discover Kastraki – Traditional Village at the Foot of Meteora

Nestled amphitheatrically beneath Meteora’s soaring cliffs, Kastraki is a UNESCO-listed traditional village. Known for its stone homes, flower-filled yards, and authentic atmosphere, it’s a perfect base for exploring monasteries, hiking, local churches, and experiencing rural Greek life

Kastraki, which means “small castle,” is a quaint and peaceful village that resembles an eagle’s nest nestled at the base of the towering rocks of Meteora. This settlement is situated among the colossal cliffs and was first established in the 16th century. Today, Kastraki has a population of approximately 1,500 residents, with most working in agriculture and tourism.

Over the past few decades, the village has seen significant development, primarily due to the influx of tourists. Kastraki is a picturesque destination within Meteora, boasting an authentic local character. Visitors are drawn to its peaceful atmosphere, a closer connection to the local lifestyle, and the natural beauty surrounding the village, making it a perfect place for those seeking a tranquil getaway in this charming and traditional setting.

Useful info

Location: 6 km from Kalabaka, at the foot of Meteora’s cliffs
Best Visiting Seasons: Spring (April–June) & Autumn (September–October)
Accommodation: Family-run guesthouses, boutique stays, and campsites available
Local Cuisine: Try handmade pies, tsipouro, and mushroom-based dishes
Ideal For: Hikers, photographers, rock climbers, and travelers seeking tranquility
Nearby Attractions: St. George Mandilas Cave, Ypapanti Monastery, Holy Spirit Rock
Travel Tip: Wear walking shoes—cobblestone paths and trails are part of the charm
Top Photo Spot: From the Holy Spirit Rock overlooking the rooftops of Kastraki

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Historical Roots & UNESCO Heritage

Founded by Epirote refugees during Ottoman rule the village of Kastraki has been classified by the Greek State, following a Presidential Decree, as a traditional resort under preservation for three consecutive times! It is a pole of natural beauty and Tourism, very distinct in the wider region of Meteora, and is included in the list of Cultural Heritage Sites of UNESCO.

The people of Kastraki share a particular affection for flowers. You can see flowers even in the yards of the most humble houses. Very often in difficult times of the past, the housewives of the locals would make flower pots out of tin cans, with which they decorated their houses and yards.

Accommodation & Dining

The village offers a variety of modern accommodations and dining choices of the highest standards for visitors to enjoy their stay. Despite this rapid growth, Kastraki village has successfully managed to retain the authentic atmosphere of the old times, offering today a unique combination of authenticity coupled with extraordinary views of Meteora’s rare geological phenomenon. Those are a few reasons why travelers today seem to prefer the village.

The locals’ houses are mostly made of stone, embellished with red clay tile roofs. They do not exceed a certain height, as they abide by the National Archaeological Committee’s regulations for preserving the village’s couleur locale and out of respect for the surrounding landscape.

Our suggestions

Don’t leave Kastraki without a sample of its local cuisine, which is second to none! Dedicate precious time to walk around the most traditional and captivating old quarters of Mesohori. Kastraki is the ideal place to set off for a walk towards the Meteora rocks and the monasteries, but also to discover some of the well-hidden, fascinating old ruined Monasteries. Find out about our range of hiking tours conducted by local guides! Contact us and let us recommend you which tour would better suit your interests and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kastraki

What is Kastraki Village known for?

Kastraki Village is known for its traditional stone houses, narrow winding streets, and proximity to the famous Meteora rock formations. The village offers an authentic experience of Greek rural life, with its picturesque setting and historical significance. It is also a great base for exploring Meteora’s monasteries

How old is Kastraki Village?

Kastraki is a historic village with origins dating back to the Byzantine period. Its layout and architecture have remained largely intact, preserving its ancient charm. The village is rich in traditional Greek culture and offers a glimpse into rural life from centuries ago.

What can I see and do in Kastraki Village?

Visitors to Kastraki Village can:

Explore the Old Habitation area with its traditional houses and narrow streets.
Visit the Monasteries of Meteora nearby, which are perched atop rock formations.
Take walks in the surrounding countryside, which offers stunning views of the Meteora rocks.
Experience local Greek cuisine at nearby restaurants or tavernas.

Is Kastraki Village close to the Meteora monasteries?

Yes, Kastraki is located just a few kilometers from the Meteora monasteries. This proximity makes it an ideal location for travelers looking to explore both the village’s charm and the iconic rock monasteries.

What is the best time to visit Kastraki Village?

The best time to visit Kastraki Village is in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant for walking and exploring. Summer can be hot, but the area remains beautiful year-round, with stunning natural scenery.

Location of Kalabaka on the map

Must-See Sites in Kastraki

Doupiani Hermitage

Few know today that the word hermit is a Greek word derived from “heremos” meaning the desert. It was used in the first centuries of Christianity to describe the Desert Fathers who withdrew from society to live in isolation in the deserts of Egypt, Syria and Jordan. The hermits, more than 1000 years ago are the first ones who chose to occupy the cliffs and the caves of Meteora for religious reasons.

The Hermit Caves of Badovas

Hidden among the giant rocks of Meteora one can still see the evidence of all 3 types of monasticism, the eremitic, the skete and the cenobitic coexisting in the ruins of St. Gregory left by the last hermit-monk inside a small cavern, the skete of St. Antony and the small monastery of St. Nikolas of Badovas.

The Tower of Aghia

Mankind’s presence in the area around Meteora dates back to 40.000 BC! The whole area is considered by many to be the cradle of the Greek nation when the proto-Greeks emerged out from the fertile plain of Thessaly almost 6.000 years ago. In this huge rock complex rising 430 meters above the town of kalambaka the locals call today ‘Aghia’ there are ruins that nobody knows how old they are…

St. George Madilas

Draped in colorful scarves and mystery, the cliffside chapel of St. George Mandilas is unlike anything else in Meteora. Every spring, daring locals climb the sheer rock face to offer scarves (“mandilia”) to the saint, honoring a centuries-old legend of healing and devotion. It’s not just a ritual — it’s a living testament to faith, courage, and community.

The Rock of Aghio Pnevma

The first ever recorded hermit of Meteora leaved on a huge pillar like rock known at his time as the pillar of Stagoi. This huge rock pillar rises more than 200 meters from the ground right above the modern day village of Kastraki. His name was Varnavas and stayed in a small cave where he made a small chapel dedicated to “Holy Spirit”. The date was 980 AD!

Old Habitation of Kastraki Village

The old settlement of Kastraki, Mesochori, is the core of the wider settlement and is of great architectural interest. The preservation of the old urban design and the presence of a considerable number of buildings dating back to the early 20th century, all help to draw up to memory the historicalness of the area and the authentic atmosphere of other times.