Yes, more monasteries in this extraordinary and geologically unique landscape. This is my new friend Sterrios. We got talking about some of the differences between Christian traditions in a very good natured and warm atmosphere. We covered subjects such as the devotion of kissing icons and as a pastor, why didn't I wear a black robe like be did? We prayed together and later he introduced me to his boss, Prophitis. He was a bundle of laughs, some of which I couldn't quite catch - lost in translation - but we shared our love of the Old Testament together. They both serve in the least popular (for visitors) monastery of St Nicholas, possibly because it has more steps up to it than any other. These were just the last few.
For that reason we especially liked it because not many people were there, unlike the one we visited next, the Grand Meteora, which was absolutely heaving. The views on the way up, on either side of St Nicholas, were amazing.
And from the top. Wow.
This is how they get big stuff up and down these days, in an electric lift suspended on wires.
Or, on parallel wires.
And this is how they used to do it.
So, we came to the Grand Meteora, the monastery of the transfiguration. So many cars and coaches were there, we wondered whether to go later on the day, but we persisted and found a parking place. It was worth it. After a brief climb down, we entered a tunnel.
Then up several flights of steps,
with a great view of our sixth and final monastery, Varlaam.
Panoramic views from the top.
We visited the museum and looked in wonder at ancient illuminated biblical manuscripts with beautiful illustrations. Sadly no photos allowed. And so we arrived at the adjacent, sixth and final monastery in this extraordinary landscape, Varlaam, named after the monk who founded it in the c.14th.
We only needed to cross a bridge and climb a few steps to gain entry. Phew!, the temperature had moved up to 36C.
I wonder if you can guess what this c.16th object is? We found it in a room all on its own.
The inside of a c.16th 12,000 litre wooden barrel, of course. Disappointingly it was used to store ... water. Owen Pugh has an alternative but similar strategy for water scarcity in Tanzania (see my blog 27th June, A special time in a special place with special people).
A friend asked whether I could get inside it. Only if I lost a LOT of weight to squeeze through the small hole. On the way down from the monastery I spotted a man in a blue T-shirt. I wonder if you can.
Here he is, on the right hand pillar of rock. No thank you very much.
Well, that's it from one of the most amazing places we've visited. We managed to find our way through the tourist frenzy and dig down to some deep orthodox spirituality. Spending time with sisters and brothers in Christ from a very different tradition to ours has been enriching. Finding sanctuary in the cool of their ancient, highly colourful church buildings has been a welcome relief from the heat. I'll leave you with the view I am enjoying as I write.
