Holy Monastery of Rousanos: A Meteora Marvel
Discover the Holy Monastery of Rousanos in Meteora, Greece: a stunningly located convent with remarkable frescoes and panoramic views.
Perched dramatically atop a solitary rock pillar in Meteora, Greece, the Holy Monastery of Rousanos, also known as Saint Barbara, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and spiritual history. Founded in the 16th century, this once-male monastery, now a convent, is accessible via a bridge and stairs, rewarding visitors with stunning views and remarkable frescoes.
A brief summary to Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara
- Μετεώρων, Kalabaka, 422 00, GR
- +302432022649
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear appropriate clothing to enter the monastery. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Skirts are available to borrow at the entrance.
- Arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season (May to October).
- Bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments may not be accepted.
- Take your time climbing the stairs to the monastery and enjoy the views along the way.
- Explore the nearby pathways for off-the-beaten-path panoramic viewpoints.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main road near Kastraki, follow the signs towards the monasteries. The Holy Monastery of Rousanos is located between St. Nicholas Anapafsas and Varlaam monasteries. The final approach involves walking along a well-maintained path and ascending approximately 140 steps to reach the entrance. Allow about 20-30 minutes for the walk from Kastraki village. Note that appropriate footwear is recommended for the climb.
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Public Transport
Local buses connect Kalabaka and Kastraki with the Meteora monasteries. From the bus stop closest to Rousanos, follow the walking directions above. A single bus fare from Kalabaka to Kastraki is approximately €2. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Kalabaka and can take you to the entrance of the path leading to Rousanos Monastery. A taxi ride from Kalabaka to the monastery area costs around €10-€15. From there, follow the walking directions. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Call 0030 24320 22310 to book in advance.
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Driving
Drive towards Meteora from Kalabaka or Kastraki. Follow the road signs to the monasteries. There is a parking area near the monastery, but it can get crowded during peak season. Parking is free. From the parking area, walk along the path and ascend the steps to the monastery entrance.
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