Monastery of St. Stephen

The Monastery of St. Stephen — Agios Stefanos — is the most accessible of the six: instead of a long climb, you cross a short footbridge from the road onto a broad rock plateau. That accessibility, plus a wood-carved iconostasis many visitors call the finest in Meteora, make it a favourite stop on day tours.

Originally founded in the 14th century, the present main church was built in 1798 — the youngest of all the Meteora churches. Damaged and looted during both world wars (when the nuns were thought to be hiding refugees), the monastery was converted into a convent of nuns in 1961 and remains an active women’s community today.

Highlights

• The intricately carved wooden iconostasis in the main church
• The old refectory, now a small museum with icons and manuscripts
• Workshops where the nuns still make icons, embroidery and incense
• Panoramic views from the terraces

Visiting in practice

• No stair climb — a short footbridge connects the road to the monastery.
• Strict dress code; wrap-skirts are loaned to women in trousers.
• Bring €5 in cash per person.