The Holy Monastery of Roussanou
Monastery in Meteora, Greece, an Orthodox nunnery on a rock, known for its frescoes.
🌐 roussanou.gr🕒 10:00-16:30; We off; Nov-Mar Th-Tu 10:00-14:00
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Monastery of Rousanou
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The Monastery of Rousanou, also known as the Monastery of Saint Barbara, is one of the most accessible and visually striking monasteries in Meteora. It was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an older 14th-century structure by brothers Maximos and Ioasaph. The monastery is characterized by its vertical construction, which occupies the entire summit of a narrow rock, blending seamlessly into the natural environment. Since 1988, it has functioned as a nunnery and is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and beautifully maintained gardens. The main church is dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ and houses significant frescoes of the Cretan School, famous for their detail and spiritual expressiveness. Due to its location, it provides excellent photography opportunities of the other monasteries and the Peneios Valley. It is accessible via a modern bridge that replaced the rope ladders and nets used in the past.
- Location: Greece
- Top sights: The Holy Monastery of Roussanou · Dragon cave · Monks' prison
- Nearby: Trikala (22 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 13 | 19 | 22 | 22 | 17 | 12 | 7 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 72 | 62 | 60 | 40 | 43 | 29 | 26 | 23 | 60 | 74 | 79 | 90 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Monastery of Rousanou in Meteora is a functioning nunnery open to visitors. You enter via a bridge and can explore the inner courtyard and the richly frescoed church.
Typical hours
Visiting hours typically follow daylight hours with a midday break. Access may be limited on holidays or during religious services.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed in the courtyard and exterior, but flash is often prohibited inside the church. Please follow any guidance from the nuns regarding photography.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours. Allow extra time to appreciate the frescoes and the panoramic views.
Combine with
Combine Rousanou with the nearby monasteries of St. Stephen and Holy Trinity. A hike along the trails between the rock pillars is also highly recommended.
Getting there
The monastery is best reached by car or bus from Kalambaka. There is a parking area at the base of the rock, followed by a short walk up to the bridge.
Insider tip
Visit Rousanou early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds. Wear sturdy shoes as the paths are steep and can be slippery.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in its current form around the year 1545.
- Converted into a nunnery in the year 1988.
- The frescoes in the church date back to 1560.
- Located on a lower rock compared to Great Meteoron.
- Named after the first hermit who inhabited the rock.
- Accessible via two bridges constructed in 1930.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Monastery of Rousanou (10)
The Holy Monastery of Varlaam
Orthodox monastery in Meteora, Greece, known for its frescoes and rock-top location.
🌐 meteora-greece.com🕒 09:00-16:00; Fr off; Nov-Mar Sa-We 09:00-15:00; Nov-Mar Th-F
Hagia Moni
Archaeological site in Meteora, Greece, remains of an old monastery.
Ypsilotera monastery
Archaeological site in Meteora, Greece, ruins of a former monastery on a rock.
Kalambaka valley viewpoint
Viewpoint in Meteora, Greece, overlooking the Kalambaka valley and the rocks.
Monastery of St Modestus (ruins)
Archaeological site in Meteora, Greece, ruins of a monastery dedicated to Saint Modestus.
Modi
Rock in Meteora, Greece, a prominent rock peak in the monastery landscape.
Holy Monastery of St. Nikolaos of Anapafsas
Orthodox monastery in Meteora, Greece, a small monastery with 16th-century frescoes.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Rousanou a monastery for men or women?
It is currently run as a nunnery (convent for women).
Is access easier than at other monasteries?
Yes, the climb is relatively short and done via bridges, making it less strenuous.
What can you see in the monastery's church?
Impressive frescoes of the Cretan school, depicting scenes of martyrdom and the Last Judgment.
When is the monastery open to visitors?
Usually from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; Wednesdays are mostly the closing day (please check locally).
Is there a souvenir shop on-site?
Yes, the nuns often sell honey, icons, and handmade jewelry in the small monastery shop.
Monastery of Rousanou: where is it located?
Monastery of Rousanou is located in Greece.
Monastery of Rousanou: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Holy Monastery of Roussanou, Dragon cave, Monks' prison.
Monastery of Rousanou: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Monastery of Rousanou: why is it worth visiting?
The Monastery of Rousanou, also known as the Monastery of Saint Barbara, is one of the most accessible and visually striking monasteries in Meteora.
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