Even if you’re not religious, Meteora is unarguably one of the most fascinating destinations in mainland Greece.

Geography

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the famous rocks that give Meteora its magnificence were formed over 60 million years ago. It’s a unique geological phenomenon as the pinnacles are created mostly of sandstone and earth during a series of earthquakes, pushing the land up and resulting in these huge monoliths - the biggest rising to 313 metres.

Monasteries

In the Byzantine period, several huge monasteries were constructed atop these rock formations and although only six are left and in operation, they are the second biggest monastic community in Greece.

The Monastery of Saint Stephen, built in the 15th century, is the only female monastery of the group, plus it’s the easiest to get to–possible to drive or go by taxi to.