Tour to Meteora & Thermopylae

Highlights

Meteora, Thermopylae

Starting our journey, we will cross the Thessalian plain, where a few kilometers northwest of the town of Kalambaka lies one of the most impressive landscapes in Greece.

Many centuries ago, these massive rocks, towering over 600 meters in height, were formed, providing refuge to hermits who established one of the most significant monastic communities in Greece. Today, eight sacred monasteries survive, of which six are still in operation. In 1988, Meteora was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. It constitutes a complex of dark-colored sandstone rocks, rising near the foothills of Mount Pindus and the Hasia Mountains, forming one of the largest and continuously inhabited monastic complexes in the Greek region.

The name ‘Meteora’ is relatively recent and is not mentioned by ancient writers. Their name, ‘Suspended in the Air,’ is attributed to Saint Athanasios of Meteora, the founder of the Transfiguration Monastery (Great Meteoro). We will visit three monasteries, depending on the day of the excursion, as they are not all open on the same days.

Additionally, we will explore the archaeological site of Thermopylae, one of the most important historical sites due to the Battle of 480 BC. In this battle, the outnumbered Greek forces, consisting of 300 Spartans and 700 Thespians led by Spartan King Leonidas, faced the vast Persian forces. Thermopylae was chosen as the suitable location to confront the massive Persian armies due to its strategic position. The Persians could not deploy their necessary maneuvers for their advance. The thermal springs of Thermopylae, from which they derive their name, were dedicated to Hercules, and there was a sanctuary and altar in the area dedicated to the hero.