What to Do in Meteora, Greece
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Greece is filled with unique treasures, and Meteora is one of those places. Filled with natural beauty, Meteora is known for its unique monasteries that were built into the cliffs. Besides that, there are some other things you also might want to do while visiting. Here’s more information:
Enjoy the Outdoors
Meteora, Greece has much to offer the outdoor lover. Bird watching is an activity the entire family can enjoy. The Meteora Rocks are home to some rare species that includes the Egyptian vulture. Other species that you’ll be able to see are the blue rock thrush, the alpine swift, and the rock nuthatch to name a few. If you’re looking for more adventure, climbing is the perfect choice. You can climb to the top of the rocks where the monasteries sit.
In the area of Meteora, you will have access to hundreds of different climbing routes. The routes are of varying lengths and difficulties, so you will find something to suit your needs. Kayaking and mountain biking are other outdoor sports that you can enjoy when visiting Meteora.
Visit Kalambaka
Kalambaka is the city center of Meteora. It is located in the central region of Trikala prefecture. Kalambaka is where the locals live their daily lives. The city is home to charming cobblestone alleys and traditional houses. While visiting Kalambaka, you will want to indulge in the local homemade sausages, pies, and tsipouro.
There are also souvenir shops where you can pick up a trinket or two to remember your trip by. You can buy beautiful wood-carved objects that are made by local artists. There is a wood-carving school in Kalambaka that you will want to visit as it maintains the traditional techniques of wood-carving that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Explore the Monasteries
The monasteries of Meteora are a must-see when you visit. The largest and oldest monastery is the Holy Monastery of Great Meteora. This monastery was founded in the 14th century and the name refers to the giant rock that the monastery was built on. The Holy Monastery of Roussanou was founded by two brothers, Maximos and Iosaf during the 16th century. This monastery sits on a lower rock than the other monasteries.
Inside you can view frescoes and beautiful wall paintings. A community of nuns resides at the Holy Monastery of Roussanou. The Holy Monastery of Varlaam, the Holy Monastery of Agia Triada, the Holy Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas, and the Holy Monastery of Agios Stefanos are the other monasteries you can visit while in Meteora.
Visit the Natural History and Mushroom Museum
The Natural History and Mushroom Museum of Meteora showcases a collection of over 300 species of birds and mammals. Mammal exhibits include beech martens, raccoons, and bushbucks to name a few. Bird exhibits include the Egyptian vulture, the slender-billed curlew, and the bald eagle. There is also a comprehensive mushroom museum, which is the first of its kind in Greece. Here you can learn about dozens of species of mushrooms. You will see the three major phases of the mushroom’s development and the ecosystems in which they thrive.
When in Meteora, Greece, be sure to explore all there is to offer. Be sure to explore this area fully while here!
Categorized in: About Meteora, Greece, About Thessaly, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
