Discover Meteora’s Hidden Sanctuaries
Sacred Places Carved in Stone and Time
Far from the main tourist paths, Meteora hides a world of quiet sanctuaries—monasteries, sketes, and hermit caves carved into the cliffs, shaped by solitude, devotion, and centuries of human faith. Follow ancient trails and discover stories whispered by rocks, forests, and ruined chapels.
Ypapanti Monastery
Perched high on the remote northern side of Meteora, the Monastery of Ypapanti was founded in 1367 by Abbot Neilos. Unlike the monasteries built atop the rock pillars, Ypapanti was carved directly into a cliff cavity, offering one of the most humble yet deeply moving expressions of monastic life.
After a long period of abandonment, it was restored in 1765 by Athanasios Vlachavas, a local klepht and nobleman. It was later partially damaged during the era of Ali Pasha’s rule, but in 1930, Metropolitan Polykarpos reconstructed the stone staircase and added over 100 steps, making the site safely accessible.
Though uninhabited today and managed by the Great Meteoron Monastery, Ypapanti remains a powerful place of silence and reflection. The narthex, built in 1784, was beautifully painted by Dimitrios Zoukis and his student Georgios, while the rest of the structure retains its original simplicity.
The interior is closed, but visitors can admire the restored exterior, enjoy sweeping views, and feel the peace of a sacred landscape—free from noise, traffic, and crowds.
The monastery celebrates its feast day every year on February 2nd.
The Hermit Caves of Badovas – Meteora’s Forgotten Sanctuaries
Not far from Ypapanti lies another spiritual treasure. Between Kastraki and Kalabaka, the valley of Panaghia is enclosed by towering rocks like Pyxari and Amparia. Hidden here are the hermit caves of Badovas—a network of ancient sanctuaries where Meteora’s first ascetics once lived in complete solitude.
The small Monastery of Saint Nikolaos of Badovas, likely founded in the 14th century, stands carved into a large cliff cavity. Nearby, the Skete of Saint Anthony and the hermit caves of Saint Gregory still cling to the rock, some once reachable only by wooden ladders suspended over the void.
Even today, wooden remnants of ladders and scaffolding can be seen—silent symbols of the monks’ devotion and physical endurance. In this one sacred area, visitors can witness all three forms of Orthodox monasticism—cenobitic, sketic, and hermitic—preserved in a single living landscape.
How to Visit
The best way to explore Ypapanti and the Badovas sanctuaries is on foot, hiking along Meteora’s scenic trails.
Alternatively, you can choose a private off-road tour by mini van, which brings you closer to the sites for a gentle walk—ideal for travelers seeking comfort without missing the essence of the journey.
Let our experienced local guide lead you along the ancient footpaths of monks, uncovering stories, secrets, and spiritual echoes that still resonate among the cliffs.
Reconnect with history. Walk through silence. Experience Meteora’s hidden beauty.