Explore Meteora's Hidden Gems
Exploring these ruined monasteries and hidden gems unveils the region’s unique past and provides visitors with an unparalleled connection to its history. Whether you’re hiking to discover the ruins or simply soaking in the awe-inspiring views, Meteora’s hidden gems promise an unforgettable experience that deepens your appreciation for this extraordinary site.
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.
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 Hidden Monastery of Ypapanti
Byzantium in the 14th century and after many centuries of decline was reduced to a mere shadow of the once glorious Roman Empire. The last Christian emperors of the East now controlled only a tiny handful of territories, struggling to contain the advancement of the Ottoman Turks in all fronts. For many Christians of that period the end was near and their last hope was to retreat in their faith. The monastery of Ypapanti was first established during that dark period in the year 1367.
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!
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
This is the most popular local cave, dedicated to St. George and located in one of the steepest slopes of a high rock, right outside the village of Kastraki.
Old Ruined Monasteries
Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its hidden gems—the many ruined monasteries and abandoned hermitages scattered throughout the region. At its peak, Meteora was home to nearly 24 active monasteries, showcasing the area’s rich spiritual heritage.
The history of these hidden gems in Meteora dates back to the 10th century, when the first hermit monks arrived in search of solitude. These early monks laid the foundations for Meteora’s evolution into a significant monastic center for the Greek Orthodox Church. Today, the cliffs and caves surrounding Meteora are dotted with remnants of these ancient hermitages, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
By the late 16th century, Meteora was home to a thriving monastic community, boasting a total of 24 active monasteries. During this era, many small hermitages, such as the one at Doupiani, were abandoned as the trend shifted toward forming larger monastic brotherhoods. These larger monasteries provided better living conditions and a sense of community for the monks.
Their Forgotten History
However, by the mid-17th century, the monasteries of Meteora began to experience a gradual decline. Over the next two centuries, numerous monasteries and hermitages fell into ruin, affected by both Ottoman destruction and the relentless forces of nature. This long period of decline continued into the early 20th century, resulting in what we now lovingly refer to as the “ruins and hidden gems” of Meteora. In the early 1900s, a rejuvenation began as several monks from Mount Athos arrived in Meteora, seeking to repopulate the few remaining monasteries.
Their efforts helped to uncover some of the lesser-known treasures, revealing Meteora’s hidden gems amidst the ruins and restoring a sense of spiritual life to this breathtaking landscape. Today, these hidden gems stand as a testament to the rich history and endurance of the monastic community against the test of time.
Get Inspired
If you find this impressive, why not book an experience that will take you to these hidden gems of Meteora that most visitors are completely unaware of!
Meteora Sunset Tour With Monastery Visit & Hermit Caves 737 reviews
Meteora Sunset tour will guide you to the hidden side of Meteora.
Meteora Monasteries Tour: Half-Day Sightseeing Experience 613 reviews
Meteora Half-day Tour will take you back to the dark ages and stories of the first monks.
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