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THE MONASTERY OF AGIOS STEFANOS

OPENING HOURS 

Summer Timetable

(May 15th to October 31st)

Opening Hours

 9:00 to 13:30 & 15:30 to 17:30

Days Closed 

Closed on Mondays 

Winter Timetable

(November 1st to May 14th)

Opening Hours

 9:00 to 13:00 & 15:30 to 17:00

Days Closed 

Closed on Mondays 

USEFUL INFOS

Access Difficulty

Direct access via a small bridge with almost no stairs. Suitable for all visitors.

Entrance Fee

In each monastery there is an entrance fee of 5 euro per person. Kids up to 12 years old don’t pay entrance fees in the monasteries.

Dress Code

Visitors must dress modestly when entering the monasteries. Women should wear knee-length skirts and tops covering the shoulders, while men must wear long trousers. Sleeveless clothing is not allowed. Wrap-around skirts are often provided at the entrance.

The Monastery of Saint Stephen is one of the six active monasteries of Meteora, located on the southeastern edge of the rock formations, overlooking the town of Kalambaka. It is considered one of the most accessible monasteries in the area, as visitors can reach its entrance via a small bridge, without the need to climb stairs, making it suitable for all types of travelers.

The history of the monastery dates back to the late 12th century, when hermits first settled on the rock. An organized monastic community was established in the 14th century, with significant development occurring during the 15th and 16th centuries. An important figure in its history was Antonios Kantakouzenos, while the renovation of the old katholikon was carried out by Saint Philotheos. Since 1961, the monastery has been functioning as a nunnery and today hosts one of the largest monastic communities in Meteora.

Inside the monastery, two main churches stand out. The old katholikon, dedicated to Saint Stephen, dates back to the 14th–15th century and preserves elements of Byzantine architecture. The newer katholikon, dedicated to Saint Charalambos, was built in 1798 and houses the holy relic (skull) of the saint, which is an important object of veneration.

The monastery is well known for its carefully maintained surroundings, with beautiful gardens and flowers that create a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Although it suffered damage during World War II and the Greek Civil War, it has been fully restored and continues its spiritual and charitable work to this day.

One of its most remarkable features is the breathtaking panoramic view over Kalambaka and the Thessalian plain, offering visitors a truly memorable experience. Its easy access, historical significance, spiritual atmosphere, and serene environment make it one of the most popular and visitor-friendly monasteries in Meteora.

OPENING HOURS 

Summer Timetable

(May 15th to October 31st)

Opening Hours

 9:00 to 13:30 & 15:30 to 17:30

Days Closed 

Closed on Mondays 

Winter Timetable

(November 1st to May 14th)

Opening Hours

 9:00 to 13:00 & 15:30 to 17:00

Days Closed 

Closed on Mondays 

USEFUL INFOS

Access Difficulty

Direct access via a small bridge with almost no stairs. Suitable for all visitors.

Entrance Fee

In each monastery there is an entrance fee of 5 euro per person. Kids up to 12 years old don’t pay entrance fees in the monasteries.

Dress Code

Visitors must dress modestly when entering the monasteries. Women should wear knee-length skirts and tops covering the shoulders, while men must wear long trousers. Sleeveless clothing is not allowed. Wrap-around skirts are often provided at the entrance.

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