Introduction
Understanding the place
At the Meteors, Orthodox monasteries occupy the top of spectacular sandstone pillars, in a landscape where physical isolation supported ascetic life.
To be retained
- Natural landscape and orthodox heritage
- Six monasteries still active
- Asceticism sustained by isolation
- Spectacular verticity
History and context
Hermits settled in the cavities of the region from the Middle Ages. From the 14th century, communities built monasteries on rocky peaks, formerly accessible by ladders and nets. Six monasteries are now active and open according to precise procedures.
Why is this place spiritual?
In Orthodox tradition, distance is not intended to despise the world but to create the conditions of prayer, inner vigilance and community life. Painted churches and monastic spaces bear witness to a spirituality embodied in gestures, images and liturgical time.
What the landscape makes you feel
The verticality of the rocks and the tiny silhouettes of the buildings produce an immediate sensation of de-decentness. The current stairs facilitate access, but the visitor still perceives the radicality of the choice of life that shaped the site.
Energy, atmosphere and feelings
The power felt comes from a perceptible set: height, empty, silence, uplift effort and monastic memory. Talking about energy can be a useful metaphor, provided that it does not erase the orthodox meaning of the place.
Discover with respect
- Follow the dress rules of monasteries.
- Do not confuse tourist space with monastic space.
- Avoid noise and prohibited shooting in chapels.
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