Kastraki

Kastraki is a small, picturesque and peaceful village situated between Kalambaka and the Holy Meteora. Built amphitheatrically among the towering cliffs of Meteora, it has become a tourist resort for those who wish to visit the monasteries. The village was founded during the Ottoman era by refugees from Epirus that found shelter in the area in their effort to escape from Ali Pasha. Its name derives of an ancient castle, the ruins of which are preserved to this day. Kastraki is an authentic Greek village with the lifestyle of a province. Surrounded by lush forest, plateaus and gorges and with a unique view of the giant cliffs, it enchants the visitors.

It is worth wandering through the narrow streets, hike the trails and visit the cloisters and the sites of the area. Among the most important attractions are the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, with its icon paintings and the iconostasis of the 11th century, the church of Agios Nikolaos (St. Nicholas), with the frescoes of 1794 and the church of Agios Athanasios, located near the central square, with hagiographies dating from the end of the 18th century. It is also worth visiting the old castle and the Geology museum. Kastraki along with the Monastic Center of Meteora is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Monument of Nature.

The village is rich in history with many traditions. The most important is the one taking place on the celebration day of St. George Mandila when many people climb up a certain rock by rope, to change the colored handkerchiefs with new ones. The handkerchiefs will remain there for a whole year.