Meteora, in northern central Greece, is one of the most remarkable places on earth. Medieval monasteries hang precariously along the sides of giant rock formations -- the name Meteora comes from the Greek word Meteoros, meaning "suspended in air." Beginning in the 14th century, Greek Orthodox hermits and holy men built the monasteries as religious safe havens, isolated from the conflict and civil strife occuring in so many other parts of the country. Today the monasteries are protected monuments on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

	View of the the town of Kastraki from the cliffs of Meteora.		Closeup of Kastraki.
	Some of the many cliff formations of Meteora.		The Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapafsa.
	Built in the 15th century, the St. Nicholas Monastery is the first monastery you reach while walking from Kastraki.		The monastery is reached via a steep staircase.
	At one time the monastery could only be reached by ladder, to cut off access by intruders.		A friendly kitten pays Andy a visit.
	The kitten takes a liking to Susanne as well.		Susanne with the kitten. She's wearing a skirt provided by the monks since jeans are considered immodest for a woman.
	View of the monastery from the side.		Varlaam Monastery.
	Varlaam has some of the finest frescoes in Meteora.		Megalou Monastery, the grandest monastery in Meteora.
	Closeup view of Megalou Monastery.		View of the Monastery of Santa Barbara Rousanou, only reachable by a high bridge.
	The view from the Santa Barbara Monastery.

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