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Varlaam Monastery

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Varlaam Monastery

A 16th-century monastery with rich frescoes and an old rope-and-net lift.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Paid (small fee)
Best time
Morning
Area
Meteora

A monastery on a sheer rock, with a famous old rope-and-net lift.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Meteora, Kalambaka 422 00

  • From Kalambaka: About 15 minutes by car.
  • Steps: About 150 steps and a bridge lead to the entrance.
  • Dress code: Skirts for women; covered shoulders and knees for all.

The story of Varlaam Monastery

Varlaam Monastery was founded in 1541 by two brothers from Ioannina on a rock first settled by the hermit Varlaam in the 14th century.

Its main church is covered with beautiful 16th-century frescoes. Visitors can see the old winch tower and the net that was once used to haul up supplies — and people — before steps were carved into the rock in the 1920s.

Best time to visit

Best season

April to October.

Best time of day

Morning.

Closing day

Check the weekly closing day.

Tips before you go

  • Combine with the Great Meteoron next door.
  • See the old rope-and-net lift.
  • Photograph the Great Meteoron from Varlaam's terrace.

Best hotels near Varlaam Monastery

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Doupiani House

Family-run guesthouse with views of the rocks in Kastraki.

See prices

Grand Meteora Hotel

Hotel in Kalambaka facing the cliffs.

See prices
All hotels near Varlaam Monastery

What's around Varlaam Monastery

  • Great MeteoronOpposite.
  • RoussanouNunnery on a narrow rock.
  • KastrakiVillage below.
  • Hiking trailsPaths between monasteries.

Questions travellers ask

When was Varlaam founded?

In 1541.

How were supplies brought up?

With ropes and nets lifted by a winch.

How many steps?

About 150.

More in Meteora

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Great Meteoron

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Roussanou Monastery

Roussanou Monastery

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Holy Trinity Monastery

Holy Trinity Monastery

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Back to the Meteora guide
Travel Plan · Varlaam Monastery Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure