Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas: A Jewel of Byzantine Art in Meteora
The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos, also known as the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas, is the first active monastery that visitors encounter on their journey to Meteora. Founded at the end of the 14th century, this monastery holds significant historical and cultural value.
The name “Anapafsas” has various interpretations, with the most popular being linked to a benefactor of the monastery or its strategic location. The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos likely served as a resting place for pilgrims traveling to Meteora, which is reflected in the Greek word “anapafsis,” meaning rest. Therefore, Agios Nikolaos of Anapafsas translates literally to “Saint Nicholas, the one who offers rest.”
As you explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Meteora, be sure to visit the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos, a serene haven that symbolizes spiritual refuge and hospitality for travelers. This first monastery on the route not only provides a glimpse into the region’s past but also invites visitors to pause and reflect before continuing their journey.
Useful info
Summer timetable
Visiting Hours: 09:00 to 17:00. The monastery is open every day.Winter timetable
Visiting Hours: 09:00 to 16:00, Sundays: 09:30 to 16:00. The monastery is open every day.Contact Number
+30 24320 22375- Appropriate clothing for everyone is required to enter the monastery. Sleeveless clothing and shorts over the knee for men are prohibited and you‘ll be denied access if dressed that way. 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 of Agios Nikolaos is uniquely built on a limited rock surface, requiring its builders to construct it vertically, with multiple levels stacked one on top of another. Access to the various floors of the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos is facilitated by an inbuilt staircase.
At the entrance, visitors will find the Church of St. Anthony, as well as a crypt that once housed the monastery’s heirlooms and codes. The walls of the monastery are beautifully adorned with 14th-century paintings, adding to its historical significance. On the second floor of the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos, you will discover the Catholicon, where St. Nicholas is honored. This elongated structure is attached to the south wall of the monastery and features a low dome without windows. The Holy Table, located on the third floor, is decorated with stunning murals and has been recently restored to serve as a reception area for visitors exploring the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos.
Additionally, the monastery includes an ossuary, the monks’ cells, and the chapel of St. John Prodromos. Due to space limitations and the absence of a courtyard, the monks gather in the narthex, which provides ample room when liturgies are not held in the nave. The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos stands as a remarkable testament to faith and architectural ingenuity, attracting visitors interested in its rich history and serene atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting The Monasteries
The opening hours often change from year to year, so beware when relying on information provided in guidebooks or general websites. We will try to do our best in keeping the timetable of visiting times and days of monasteries up-to-date. Check the opening hours of Meteora monasteries here.
Before we answer this question we have to specify that everything should be taken into account. It depends on how fit you are, the transportation and time available, weather conditions ect. Most people are able to visit between 2 to 4 monasteries per day. The few visitors who visit all 6 of them within one day are missing out a magical, more slow-paced adventure. We recommend at least 2 days stay in Meteora.
Appropriate clothing for everyone is required to enter the monasteries. Sleeveless clothing and shorts over the knee for men are prohibited and you‘ll be denied access if dressed that way. For ladies skirts and shawls are available to borrow or buy at the entrance of monasteries in case they don’t have such clothing to cover themselves.
The Monastery of the Holy Trinity and Great Meteoro are the less accessible (over 300 steps). Rousanou, Varlaam and Saint Nicolaos have an average number of 140. Some of the monasteries apart the staircases requires uphill walking in paved paths. The Holy Monastery of St Stephen is connected with a walking bridge, thus making it more accessible than any other monastery.
In each monastery there is an entrance fee of 3 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 The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas on the Map
Check More Monasteries of Meteora
The Monastery of Holy Trinity
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