St. Nikolaos of Anapafsas, Meteora

St. Nicholas dates to the 14th century and is the 1st monastery encountered when entering Meteora. As travelers, pilgrims, etc. began reaching the area, they would rest here. Anapafsas translates to resting.
The building is located on top of a small rock. So the whole thing is vertical, one room on top of another reached by internal stairs.
The 1st picture looks across at the monastery while the 2nd looks a bit closer from the access path. The 3rd picture is the top mechanism of the "elevator." Until recently, these monasteries we're not reachable on foot. All things and people were lifted by rope in a mesh or basket.
The 4th picture is a small side chapel. The 5th and 6th pictures are in the church. Unfortunately, they are dark since I wasn't supposed to take them. I hope you can see some of the incredible detail and beauty in the Orthodox tradition.Read more