The Holy Monastery of Varlaam
The Monastery of Varlaam, the second largest monastery in Meteora, is steeped in history and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Located in proximity to the Great Meteoro Monastery, this remarkable site was founded in the mid-14th century by a dedicated monk named Varlaam.
In approximately 1350, Varlaam successfully ascended the steep cliffs of Meteora, accompanied by a few fellow monks. Together, they established what we now recognize as the Varlaam Monastery. Sadly, after Varlaam’s passing in the early 15th century, the monastery faced abandonment, and the 14th-century chapel he built and dedicated to the “Three Hierarchs” fell into disrepair.
However, the story of the Monastery of Varlaam did not end there. In the early 16th century, two visionary brothers from Ioannina, Theophanes and Nectarios, also known as the Apsarades, revitalized this abandoned sanctuary. They devoted many years to restoring the monastery, culminating in the construction of a new chapel dedicated to “All Saints” in 1541.
Today, the Varlaam Monastery stands as a testament to resilience and faith, celebrated as one of the premier monasteries of Meteora. It now features a beautiful museum that showcases a wealth of valuable relics, exquisite art, and ancient manuscripts, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history. Visiting the Monastery of Varlaam provides not only spiritual inspiration but also breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to connect with centuries of monastic tradition. Discover the enchanting history and serene beauty of Varlaam Monastery—it’s a must-see monastery for those exploring Meteora.
Useful info
Summer timetable
Visiting Hours: 09:00 to 16:00.
The monastery stays closed on Fridays.Winter timetable
Visiting Hours: 09:00 to 15:00.
The monastery stays closed on Thursdays and Fridays.Contact Number
+30 24320 22278- 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 stunning frescoes in the chapel of All Saints at the Monastery of Varlaam are attributed to the renowned 16th-century hagiographer, Franco Catalano. The Varlaam Monastery has preserved the historic tower featuring an old pulley system, complete with a net that was once used by the early monks to transport people and supplies.
Visitors to the Monastery of Varlaam can also discover a large 16th-century oak barrel that served as a water storage solution for centuries. Recently, the Varlaam Monastery opened a new museum where guests can admire remarkable religious painted icons, mostly from the Renaissance period, as well as exquisite holy vestments worn by priests during the Byzantine era.
To delve deeper into the captivating stories of the Monastery of Varlaam, consider joining the 4-hour Meteora Half-Day Sightseeing Tour, which offers daily visits to the monastery, excluding closing days. We are dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible experience during your visit to the Varlaam Monastery!
Frequently Asked Questions About Meteora 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 5 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 Holy Monastery of Varlaam on the Map
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