The Hidden Monastery Of Ypapanti

The Hidden Monastery of Ypapanti: Meteora’s Best-Kept Secret

The hidden monastery of Ypapanti is a truly hidden gem of Meteora. The old abandoned monastery is located in the northern part of Meteora and its accessible mainly on foot. Ypapanti monastery was constructed back in the 14th century and today it’s fully restored and renovated.

Byzantium, during the 14th century, after centuries of decline was reduced to a mere shadow of the once-mighty East Roman Empire. The last Christian emperors of the East, now controlled only a tiny handful of territories of what once used to be a vast empire. Desperately struggling to contain the advancement of the Ottoman Turks in the East.

For many Christians of that period, the end of a thousand years old empire seemed inevitably near. Their last hope was to retreat in their faith, in the most mystical aspects of it: monasticism. The monastery of Ypapanti was first established during this dark period, in the year 1367.

Why This Place Still Matters

Founded in 1367 by two monks, Nilos and Cyprianos, under the shadow of the Dupiani rock
“Ypapanti” means “Presentation of Christ in the Temple”, an important Orthodox feast day
The structure blends natural rock and man-made construction, with a cave-like feel
Deserted in the 19th century and recently restored as a protected cultural monument

Where It’s Located & How to Reach It

The Monastery is hidden between the cliffs of Great Meteoron and Ypapanti Rock, near Kastraki
Accessible only on foot via a hiking trail — about 60 minutes from Kastraki
Best visited with a local hiking guide for trail orientation and historical context

Discover this hidden monastery by joining the Hiking Tour of Meteora.

You’ll discover the hidden monastery of Ypapanti and the ruins of St. Dimitrios. Listen to the stories and the legends behind each place you pass along the trail and the thousand years of history will become alive through the exciting narrative of our local mountain guides.

35€ 25€ Family Friendly

Meteora Hiking Tour with Monastery Visit 494 reviews

Adventure Deals Hiking Outdoor 5 hours

Explore hidden gems on a small group tour and avoid the crowds.

Fully constructed inside a large cavity of a rock, this monastery is very indicative of its kind, compared to the ones that are usually seen on the peaks of rocks. A monk under the name of Nilos, in the year 1367 AD, along with another monk named Cyprianus became the founders and the owners of the monastery. It was destroyed in 1809 when the local rebel and hero Papathymios Vlahavas was arrested here by the Turkish army of Ali Pasha.

Why Visit Ypapanti?

Uncrowded – not on the main tourist routes
Offers photographic vantage points of the valley below
Rich in symbolic and architectural character
Invites a moment of solitude and prayer
Surrounded by vultures, pines, and panoramic silence

“To visit Ypapanti is to step into the original spirit of Meteora — remote, unadorned, and profoundly moving.”

Location of The Hidden Monastery of Ypapanti on the Map

FAQ - Monastery of Ypapanti

Where is the Hidden Monastery of Ypapanti located?

The Monastery of Ypapanti is nestled in a remote cliff face in Meteora, near Kalambaka, Greece. It is accessible by hiking trails and offers spectacular views of the surrounding sandstone pinnacles.

Can visitors enter the Monastery of Ypapanti?

While no monks live here today and it is not staffed, the site is open-air and accessible to hikers. You can visit freely and explore the exterior and partial interior — with respect

How do you reach the Hidden Monastery of Ypapanti?

Visitors can reach the monastery by joining a guided hiking tour from Kalambaka or Kastraki. The trail includes scenic viewpoints and passes through serene forested paths.

What is the history of the Ypapanti Monastery?

Built in the 14th century, the Ypapanti Monastery was carved into the cliff by monks seeking solitude. It has since become a hidden gem of spiritual and historical significance in the Meteora complex.

Is it part of the six main monasteries?

No — Ypapanti is not one of the six active monasteries. It’s a historical monument and spiritual landmark, often overlooked by mainstream tours.

Can I visit Ypapanti without a guide?

Yes, though a guide is recommended for navigation and insight. The trail is not always marked, and historical context adds meaning to your visit.