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The Old Habitation of Kastraki – Meteora’s Village of Stone and Time

Beneath the towering cliffs of Meteora lies Kastraki, a village carved from stone and memory. While most visitors rush to the monasteries above, few stop to explore the preserved old quarters of Kastraki, where cobblestone paths, stone houses, and ancient chapels whisper stories of resilience, tradition, and Orthodox faith.

The old habitation of Kastraki Village, also called Mesochori (meaning the village in the middle), was the old main square of Kastraki.

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 bring to mind the historicalness of the area and the authentic atmosphere of other times.

Cultural Highlights of Old Kastraki

  • Church of Agios Nikolaos: One of the oldest parish churches, used by the early monastic settlers
  • Traditional fountains and stone wells still used by locals
  • Small courtyards and hand-carved lintels mark each home’s unique story
  • A handful of converted guesthouses preserve the architectural style for visitors to experience

How It Connects with Meteora Today

  • The old houses supported the hermits and early monks
  • Many locals in Kastraki are descendants of those who lived alongside the monastics
  • Today, Kastraki balances authentic tradition with tourism — and old habitation remains protected and honored by the community

“In old Kastraki, you don’t just see history — you walk inside it.”

Experience Meteora’s Golden Hour with a Walk Through History

Join our Meteora Sunset Tour and step into the soul of the region — not just the cliffs, but the stone paths of old Kastraki village, where time stands still. Before watching the sun dip behind the monasteries, you’ll wander through centuries-old homes, hidden chapels, and stories carved into the rocks.

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Kastraki

All visitors will find it worth walking through the narrow village streets, hiking through the paths among the towering rocks, and visiting the sketes, small country churches, monasteries, and other magnificent sites in the area. In Kastraki, the visitor can find important churches, built mainly during the Turkish Occupation of Greece. The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a basilica with three aisles and remarkable frescos and a 16th-century iconostasis, is at the location Adrachti. The Church of Agios Nikolaos, the hagiographies of which were made in 1794, is also in the village. The Church of Agios Athanasios is close to the central square of the village. Its hagiographies go back to the 18th century.

You can view this amazing site with our Meteora Sunset Tour from Kalampaka.

Location of Kastraki on the map

 

FAQ - The Old Habitation of Kastraki

Yes — the old village is fully accessible. It is still inhabited, so visitors should respect the quiet, residential character of the area.

You can stroll through the alleys on your own, but it’s even better with a local guide who can explain the architecture, family stories, and historical context.

Yes — some guesthouses have preserved the original architecture, offering a truly immersive experience. Explore options under Meteora Hotels.

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