The Metéora (Greek: Μετέωρα, "suspended rocks", "suspended in the air" or "in the heavens above" - etymologically similar to "Meteorite") is one of the largest and most important complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece, second only to Mount Athos.[1] The six monasteries are built on natural sandstone rock pillars, at the northwestern edge of the Plain of Thessaly near the Pineios river and Pindus Mountains, in central Greece. The nearest town is Kalambaka. The Metéora is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List under criteria[2] I, II, IV, V and VII.
1rst Day:
Depart through Thebes, LEVADIA (short stop) and Arachova for DELPHI, you'll arrive in Delphi at around noon. Famous for its theater, Temple of Apollo and ancient ruins, Delphi was considered the center of the earth and the universe, and played a central role in the classical Greek world. Pass by CASTALIA SPRING, visit at the archaeological site the TEMPLE of APOLLO famous for its oracle and the MUSEUM of Delphi (optional) , with it’s spectacular finds, including the unique bronze Charioteer, the Naxian Sphinx and the Statue of Antinoos. Visit the archaeological site of DELPHI. In the afternoon after lunch depart through Central Greece and the cities of Lamia (short stop), Trikala crossing the Thessalian plain, to Kalambaka (a small town built at the foot of the majestic grey rocks, and crowded by the METEORA Monasteries (short stop for souvenirs). Overnight stay in Kalambaka.
2nd Day:
Leave in the morning for nearby Meteora for a tour of the cliff-top monasteries to visit two different BYZANTINE MONASTERIES* built on top of rock towers and providing fantastic views over the plain. Meteora is included on the UNESCO world heritage monument. The monasteries are perched on top of towers of sandstone, which for centuries provided totally inaccessible retreats for the monks. Meteora is considered one of the most beautiful area of mainland Greece, and its monasteries are one of the country's most unique attractions. By your return you may visit optional a factory of Byzantine style icons. Return to Athens passing by the heroic monument of Leonidas king of Sparta in THERMOPYLAE (short stop for photos). The tour returns to Athens in the late afternoon.
