Roussanou Monastery – Small But Lovely

Roussanou Monastery sits on a low rock pillar – compared to the other monasteries in Meteora. It is very much accessible to public transport and there is not much climbing involved, but a few steps.

The monastery itself is connected via a small bridge and is managed by nuns who are collecting the entrance fee themselves. Yes, it is now a convent for women – since 1988.

There are two rules that visitors need to remember when going inside the monastery.

First, you have to cover your legs (aka, wear long skirts). The nuns at the entrance can loan you a plain cloth to wrap around your waist. This also applies to men.

Second, photography is not allowed. However, no one is really watching inside, and if you want to take one or two(using your phone), be discreet – like me. 😀 

Roussanou is also called Holy Monastery of Saint Barbara.

Just like the other monasteries, Roussanou is also a Greek Orthodox monastery.

Inside, you will see a tiny church.

From its walls to its tiny dome, paintings of Christian icons adorned the whole place.

The chairs, the chandeliers, and more are way back from the 16th century.

Don’t just see the frescoes, but look at them closely.

It also tempting to sit on a little patio here where you can see the views of Varlaam Monastery, but when it’s crowded, you’ve got go out and sit somewhere else.

When you exit Roussanou, follow the trail that leads to the Bear Rocks. They are rock platforms overlooking the majestic, and towering rock slabs and pillars below.

HOTELS IN METEORA

While it is possible to see Meteora in one day, I’d still recommend a night stay here. Especially if you’re taking sightseeing slowly. Stay in Kalabaka town where you can find a few hotels and guesthouses. Some of these hotels have tour buses which take you to all monasteries.

Is Meteora possible in one day? Yes, it is. See our one day itinerary here.