
THE MONASTERY OF GREAT METEORON
OPENING HOURS
Summer Timetable
(April 1st to October 31st)
Opening Hours
9:30 - 15:00
Days Closed
Closed on Thursdays
Winter Timetable
(November 1st to March 31st)
Opening Hours
9:30 - 15:00
Days Closed
Closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
USEFUL INFOS
Access Difficulty
The longest staircase among the monasteries, requiring a demanding effort.
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 Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron is the largest and oldest monastery of Meteora, standing majestically on the highest rock of the complex. Its impressive scale, rich history, and commanding views make it one of the most significant landmarks in the region.
The monastery was founded in the 14th century by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite, who established the first organized monastic community in Meteora. It was later expanded by his disciple Saint Ioasaph, a former Serbian nobleman, who contributed significantly to its development and wealth.
The main church (katholikon), dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ, was built in the 14th century and later expanded in the 16th century. It is an exceptional example of Byzantine architecture, richly decorated with impressive frescoes that reflect the spiritual and artistic traditions of the time.
The monastery flourished during the 15th and 16th centuries, becoming the most important spiritual and economic center of Meteora. It housed valuable manuscripts, religious relics, and treasures, many of which are preserved today.
Visitors can explore several interior spaces, including a museum displaying ecclesiastical artifacts, manuscripts, and historical items, as well as former monastic areas such as the refectory, kitchen, and storage rooms, offering a vivid insight into monastic life.
Access to the monastery requires climbing a long and well-constructed staircase, making it one of the more physically demanding visits in Meteora, though the path is safe and clearly organized.
Its monumental architecture, historical importance, and panoramic views over the Meteora landscape make the Great Meteoron Monastery an essential destination for any visitor to the area.
OPENING HOURS
Summer Timetable
(April 1st to October 31st)
Opening Hours
9:30 - 15:00
Days Closed
Closed on Thursdays
Winter Timetable
(November 1st to March 31st)
Opening Hours
9:30 - 15:00
Days Closed
Closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
USEFUL INFOS
Access Difficulty
The longest staircase among the monasteries, requiring a demanding effort.
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.
