GREECE
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Meteora is one of the most surreal places in Greece.
It's a collection of stone monoliths that jut toward the sky. Atop of them are medieval monasteries, which have been the destinations for spiritual accession.
1.
It's the first all-female monastic community in Meteora, established in the 1960s.
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The monastery is easily accessible as visitors only need to cross a small bridge.
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It stands atop a slender rock column accessible only by 145 carved stone steps.
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3.
Covering the top of a rock pillar, the Roussanou is Meteora's second convent.
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From afar, the structure looks as though it was carved out from the rock itself.
The monastery is compact, containing only a three-story building. It was built on a backdrop of lush green forest.
4.
It once served as the first resting place for pilgrims when they arrived at Meteora.
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The monastery was built vertically because of the limited surface at the summit. It contains multiple floors and they are connected through an interior staircase.
The upper level has a veranda that offers a spectacular view of the landscape.
5.
Varlaam is the second-largest monastery in Meteora.
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It's named after the monk Varlaam. He was the first to scale the imposing rock outcrop on which the building was erected in 1350.
Designed like a fortress, the monastery contains many edifices. It is also responsible for many invaluable relics, ancient texts, and treasures.
6.
The Great Meteoron is the oldest and largest of all Meteora's monasteries.
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It was constructed like a medieval fortification, with high walls and watch towers guarding a precarious entryway.
The narrow entrance opens into a central courtyard where the main church and other auxiliary structures are located.
The most intriguing part is the old-age elevator system.
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