Meteora means ‘suspended in the air’ in Greek. This site is one of the largest and most important Greek Orthodox monastic complexes. It is located in the north-western edge of the Plain of Thessaly in central Greece. The size and importance of Meteora within Greece is second only to the famed Mount Athos .
The monasteries at Meteora are located atop massive stone pillars. According to one legend, these rocks were dropped from heaven, as they seem to have risen from nowhere. But a 19th century German geologist said the area of Meteora was once the estuary of a large river.
Matter and stones from the northern parts of Central Europe were brought by the river, and came to rest in the estuary. When geological changes took place tens of millions of years ago, the water in the estuary was emptied and the stones emerged. Over millions of years, corrosion and other geological changes shaped the stones into the form we see today.
Although nature has had a hand in Meteora for tens of millions of years, human interference has been relatively recent. It was only in the 11th century that the peaks of Meteora were inhabited by Byzantine monks. By living on these peaks, the monks sought to bring themselves closer to God. The first monasteries were built three centuries later.
Monastery Meteora, Greece. ( Feel good studio /Adobe Stock)
During the 14th and 15th centuries, the Byzantine Empire was in decline, which led to a period of instability. One way of escaping this earthly chaos was to live away from urban centers. As a result, seclusion saw a revival during this time of uncertainty.
The popularity of this lifestyle may be seen in the number of monasteries built at Meteora alone. It is said that by 1500, 24 monasteries were built at Meteora. At present however, only six of these buildings are left.
The famous Meteora monastery complex has drawn worldwide attention and has inspired countless pilgrims and other visitors to explore its impressive history and beautiful views over the years.
Top Image: Monastery, Meteora, Greece. Source: proslgn /Adobe Stock.
