METEORA

On the Plain of Thessaly in mainland Greece, you'll find an extraordinary group of vertical rock formations, standing up to 300 meters high, which have been weathered by erosion into a variety of bizarre forms. Perched on these rocks are the monasteries of Meteora, which take their name from their setting - ta Meteora monastiria, the monasteries hanging in the air. Originally accessible only by ladders and winches, the monasteries have now been brought within the reach of visitors by the construction of modern roads and flights of steps; but it should not be forgotten that these are places of peace, prayer, and meditation, and visitors should conduct themselves accordingly.