Meteora
Country
Greece
Inscribed in
1988
Criteria
(i)
(ii)
(iv)
(v)
(vii)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "good with some concerns" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
In a region of almost inaccessible sandstone peaks, monks settled on these 'columns of the sky' from the 11th century onwards. Twenty-four of these monasteries were built, despite incredible difficulties, at the time of the great revival of the eremetic ideal in the 15th century. Their 16th-century frescoes mark a key stage in the development of post-Byzantine painting. © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 Oct 2025
Good with some concerns
Current state and trend of VALUES
Low Concern
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Superlative natural phenomenon
Criterion
(vii)
The Meteora rock pillars, created 60 million years ago, rise over 400 m above the ground. Their name derives from the ancient Greek ‘meteoros’, which means suspended in the air. They were formed in the Tertiary period by deltaic river deposits and have been shaped by earthquakes, wind and rain into a great variety of impressive formations (IUCN, 1988).
Landscape of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance
Criterion
(vii)
The monumental rocks of Meteora form a unique landscape, which remained unchanged for thousands of years. The site has managed to maintain its environmental and aesthetic values.
Biodiversity rich habitat
The Antichasia Mountains-Meteora area is a designated SPA (GR1440005) in accordance with the EU Birds Directive, an IBA (GR053) and a Controlled Hunting Area. It is also a designated Site of Community Interest (SCI) of the Natura 2000 network (GR1440003). 163 bird species have been recorded in the area, of which 120 nest there. Many species are considered threatened in the last edition of the Greek Red List of Threatened Species (Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency, 2024). The Antichasia Mountains-Meteora area is one of the core breeding areas of Black Kites (Milvus migrans) in Greece (Criticaly Endangered species in Greece and Least Concern in Europe), while it holds one of the last four to six existing territories of the Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) in Greece (Critically Endangered in Greece and globally Endangered); as such, and due to its geographic location, it is considered very important for the coherence of the national Natura 2000 Network (Meliadis et al, 2010). The international importance of the area is further supported by the presence of Long-legged Buzzard (Buteo rufinus), Lesser Spotted Eagle (Aquila pomarina), Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus), European Roller (Coracias garrulus) and Red-backed Shrike (Lanius collurio) (Bourdakis, 2009). Other bird species of the area include Short-toed Snake-eagle (Circaetus gallicus), Black Stork (Ciconia nigra), Lesser Grey Shrike (Lanius minor), Semi-collared Flycatcher (Ficedula semitorquata) (HOS, 2013, LIFE10 NAT/BG/000152, 2012). Notable fauna species found at the site include 18 species of bats among which the European free-tailed bat (Tadarida teniotis), Otter (Lutra lutra), Brown Bear (Ursus arctus), Wolf (Canis lupus) and Wildcat (Felis sylvestris) (Meliadis et al., 2000). In the nearby forested hills and river valley, riverine forests of Platanus orientalis and endemic Centaurea lactifolia and Centaurea kalambakensis are found (IUCN, 1988).
Assessment information
There is a large number of -mostly low- threats with combined endanger the biodiversity conservation and the landscape integrity of the site. They include land use changes, decrease in traditional livestock breeding practices, development pressures and disturbance to wildlife due to heavy traffic and the large number of visitors the site is receiving. The potential impacts on the numerous endemic flora species are not known. In this context, the lack of management plan and implementation body for the natural environment of the site pose more serious threats (intensified recently by the cuttings on the already insufficient staff and resources, due to the economic crisis). Given that monitoring mechanisms are not in place, there is a lack of data indicating whether these threats are increasing or not. Each of these threats compromises different sets of values. Although the outstanding universal value of the site is not at serious risk, the existing pressures are adversely affecting the quality of the site. Hence, establishment of a management authority for the natural heritage of the protected area, is an important step forward recently.
Recreational Activities
(Large numbers of visitors)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Significant numbers of visitors, around two million per year, flood the site (conventional forms of tourism mainly, but also partly related to religious, cultural, eco-tourism, and sports tourism) (Lyratzaki, 2007). The numbers follow an increasing rate and if not controlled the mass tourism could threaten both the integrity of the site and the natural environment. Uncontrolled overnight parking (from Recreational Vehicle/Van) also might cause disturbance to certain species or litter the natural environment. Rock climbing might cause disturbance to certain endangered bird species that nest on the rock pinnacles (LIFE10 NAT/BG/000152, –2020) during breeding period (Spring). Though the local climbing community is organized and supports sustainable climbing and disseminates it though various ways (e.g. events organized within the framework of LIFE16 NAT/BG/000874). As tourism grows, waste production and management also require additional efforts (State Party of Greece, 2024).
Roads, Trails & Railroads
(Infrastructure development pressures)
Inside site
, Scattered(5-15%)
Pressures for the construction of infrastructure endanger landscape quality and the integrity of the site (opening of new roads, installation of antennas, power transmission network) (Bourdakis, 2009). The vehicle traffic on roadways outside Meteora has been increasing due to the construction of a new highway (route E65) (State Party of Greece, 2024). The same highway could cause problems to wildlife connectivity. When completed, the highway could drastically modify the touristic module of the area since the easier access (one day trip possible from most Greek major cities) could increase the number of visitors during daytime but at the same time decrease the nights spent by the tourists at the area, having an important effect to the local economy. Regular bus itineraries during summer months add to the pressures caused by organised tour buses and individual visitors (Lyratzaki, 2007). Finally, since 2023 when the storm "Daniel" hit the area and destroyed the relevant infrastructure there is no train connection, adding to the problem.
Unknown Threats
(Poison baits)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
The use of poison baits threatens the survival of several endangered species inhabiting the site (Ntemiri et al., 2018), especially scavenging species, such as the Egyptian vulture (LIFE10 NAT/BG/000152, 2012). The species was once common and emblematic in the area of Meteora (around 10 pairs estimated in 2003 (Bousbouras, 2003; Report of the monitoring activities of the Egyptian vulture in Antichasia Ori-Meteora SPA (Hellenic Ornithological Society, in Greek)), whereas only one individual remained in the area in 2020 (one of the few remaining in the whole of Greece - LIFE16 NAT/BG/000874). In recent years there are fewer incidents recorded at the area (only one in 2024), showing signs of an actual decrease of the threat, mainly attributed to years of conservation efforts and engagement of the local community (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Water-borne & other effluent Pollution
(Water and soil pollution)
Outside site
The use of fertilizers and pesticides causes underground water nitrate pollution. Likewise, uninhibited use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture has resulted in serious degradation of soil (Melieadis et al., 2000; Bourdakis, 2009). No recent information has been identified to update the assessment of this threat.
Identity/social cohesion/ changes in local population and community that result in negative impact
(Abandonment of traditional economic activities)
Outside site
Locals have abandoned traditional primary sector’s activities and have focused almost exclusively on tourism, with the exception of stock breeding, which is still practiced (Lyratzaki, 2007). Due to the worsening of the overall economic situation, this threat has become more intense and the abandonment of traditional land use practices affects both the biodiversity and the cultural elements of the area (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Logging, Harvesting & Controlling Trees
(Forest exploitation)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Intensification of forest management by cutting of mature, old and dead trees endangers certain bird species that nest in those trees (Bourdakis, 2009). Exact impacts on forest biodiversity are not known due to the lack of monitoring and the absence of biodiversity inventories (IUCN Consultation, 2017).
Residential Areas
(Pressures for new buildings close to Zone A (which protects the monastery complex))
Outside site
In the past years there has been an increase in development applications submitted for the settlements of Kastraki and Kalambaka on the foothills of Meteora – partly due to population increase (IUCN Consultation, 2017). Due to the lack of planning regulations, recent building activity proved a negative factor in many cases for the landscape quality (Papageorgiou, 2015). However, the protection framework for Meteora is robust due to the delimitation of Zone A (of absolute protection) and Zone B (of building control) foreseen in the Archaeological Law and a series of Ministerial Decisions. The protection of Zones A and B is monitored by the responsible Ephorate of Antiquities of Trikala and the central Directorates of Antiquities of the Ministry of Culture and Sports and there is currently no intention to extend the buffer Zone B at the expense of Zone A (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Terrestrial Animal Farming, Ranching & Herding
(Over-grazing due to lack of proper management of animal husbandry)
Outside site
Animal husbandry is widely practiced in the area. The lack of proper management and insufficient protection has resulted in over-grazing of grasslands (Meliadis et al., 2010) creating negative impacts on both landscape and biodiversity (IUCN Consultation, 2017; State Party of Greece, 2024).
Hunting, Collecting & Controlling Terrestrial Animals
(Poaching)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Poaching has been considered as a problem for the area. Sensitized citizens have been reporting several incidents (WHC, 2006; Bourdakis, 2009). However, no recent data has been identified on the matter.
Annual & Perennial Non-Timber Crops, Wood & Pulp Plantations, Terrestrial Animal Farming, Ranching & Herding
(Land use changes)
Outside site
In the recent past, land use changes related with agricultural policies, have decreased the mosaic of habitats. These changes concern mostly forestation of open fields, decrease of open meadows, decrease of the traditional extensive livestock breeding and its replacement with intensive breeding methods, intensification of agriculture and monoculture dominance (Bourdakis, 2009, Meliadis et al., 2000). The combined effect of all these factors have likely been a reduction of the flora and fauna diversity associated to open mosaics, along with a decrease of the landscape quality and integrity (IUCN Consultation, 2017). This trend has continued and these factors have further intensified in years (IUCN Consultation, 2020), however no recent information has been identified on the matter.
As for potential threats, the continuous process of habitat alteration and deterioration seem to be the most important one. Local conditions and preparedness of the competent authorities make fire hazard a low threat. Seismic hazard, however, is a common denominator for the whole country and the absence of devastating earthquakes in the wider area during the last four centuries cannot rule out the possibility of a greater earthquake, like those that occurred during antiquity and the Middle Ages. More advanced research is necessary and could be beneficial for the protection of the site’s heritage. Furthermore, climate change, and more specifically intensification of droughts might pose a serious threat to the ecosystems of the area. Careful management of water resources is deemed necessary to alleviate this threat.
Fire & Fire Management
(Moderate risk of fires)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Although fire hazard is an important potential threat (State Party of Greece, 2024), preventive measures by the Forestry Services and firefighting department have resulted in minimum losses in the area. Fires usually occur in lower altitudes during the summer months. The entire area belongs to class C according to the Greek fire risk map (fire risk: moderate) (Meliadis et al., 2000; 2010).
Geological Events
(Moderate seismic risk)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Earthquakes represent a potential threat to the site (State Party of Greece, 2024). Damage caused by earthquakes has not been significant during the past four centuries, as these have been frequent but not particularly powerful. However, recent palaeoseismological surveys indicate the occurrence of major events in antiquity (and until the 15th AD) of a magnitude of 6.3-6.5. Therefore, further research is recommended (Caputo and Helly, 2005).
Changes in Temperature Regimes, Changes in Precipitation & Hydrological Regime
(Possible habitat alteration due to climate change)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
Increasing drought periods due to climate change are therefore considered a potential threat to the site (State Party of Greece, 2024). Studies have shown significant increase in dry conditions in the wider region of Thessaly. This increase will become evident in the near future and (specifically during the period 2020-2050) and drought periods will largely increase in severity and duration in the longer term (period 2070-2100) (Loukas et al., 2007).
Renewable Energy
(Development of solar parks)
Outside site
Large facilities often apply for permission to create extensive solar parks both in and outside the limits of the protected area. Permission has not been granted within the limits of the protected zones, due to visual nuisance which causes indirect damage to the monument. Though outside the protected but in relative proximity area, various relatively small solar parks have been established. An immense solar park, one of the biggest in the country, 400MW of power covering 600 hectares is planned at the area of Ellinokastro. This solar park is located 12-14 km from the site, it is at the final stage of environmental licensing and when constructed it will be visible from the site (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
An estimation of the relationships with local people with regard to nature conservation will only be possible after the establishment of a management authority for the natural heritage. It can be said, however, that local communities initially reacted negatively when the broader area was designated as a Natura 2000 site, fearing potential development restrictions. There is little opportunity for the local residents to participate meaningfully in decision-making processes (Potsiou et al., 2023). However, people’s mentality regarding the designation has altered in more recent times. Locals (monks, nuns and the residents of the village of Kastraki and the town of Kalambaka) are extremely proud of the cultural and spiritual values of Meteora, which are also central to the local economy.
Legal framework
The property is protected by the provisions of the Law 4858/2021 “Ratification of the Code of legislation for the protection of antiquities and cultural heritage in general”, and by separate ministerial decrees published in the Official Government Gazette. Based on its important botanical and zoological values, Meteora is part of the Natura 2000 protected area network (GR1440003/GR1440005). Laws at national and international level protect the multitude of endemic and endangered species occurring in the property.
Governance arrangements
The responsible body for the management of the Natura 2000 sites (GR1440005 - SPA ANTICHASIA ORI KAI METEORA, GR1440003 SCI ANTICHASIA ORI KAI METEORA - SPILAIO MELISSOTRYPA), overlapping with the World Heritage site, is the Management Unit of Protected Areas of Thessaly that belongs to Natural Environment & Climate Change Agency (N.E.C.C.A.) the centralized entity created in 2020 for the management of the protected areas of Greece (national laws 4685/2020, 4722/2020 and 4819/2021). The agent responsible for the protection of the cultural heritage respectively is the Ministry of Culture and Sports and more specifically the Ephorate of Antiquities of Trikala. The broader area is also under the jurisdiction of other Ministries, such as the Ministry of Development, Competitiveness, Infrastructure, Transport and Networks, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, other competent Ministries, the Church and the Region of Thessaly. It remains unclear how effectively the Ministries responsible for the cultural and natural heritage collaborate with each other.
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
The management plans for the cultural heritage of Meteora and the natural heritage of the broader area were considered to be well integrated into regional and national planning systems, according to the Periodic report (2006). However, landscape connectivity was not included, and the adequacy of these plans with regards to conservation challenges facing the natural values is unclear (IUCN Consultation, 2017).
Boundaries
The archaeological site that includes the rock pillars has been delimited by a Decision of the Ministry of Culture and Sports (70206/3687) in 2005. The broader protected area, which includes all significant elements of the natural environment, is defined as a SPA and SCI (largely overlapping areas) in accordance to national environmental legislation. Two buffer zones that include all the remarkable monuments of the site are defined for the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage against interventions. Zone A (where building is prohibited) protects the monastery complex of Meteora and the surrounding area. Buffer Zone B sets conditions on the construction of buildings in Kastraki–Kalambaka in order to avert any change in the area surrounding the Meteora rock (State Party of Greece, 2024). It is unclear whether the internal zoning of the natural protected area (absolute protection and buffer zones) has been defined by the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change.
Overlapping international designations
The site overlaps with Meteora-Pyli UNESCO Global Geopark (2024), located in western Thessaly and covering an area of 2409.5 km2.
It is of some concern that in the last Periodic Report submitted by the State Party, the overlap (or the planned designation) was not reported (State Party of Greece, 2024), nor any communication between the focal points of the two designations, indicating a lack of coordination and communication.
It is of some concern that in the last Periodic Report submitted by the State Party, the overlap (or the planned designation) was not reported (State Party of Greece, 2024), nor any communication between the focal points of the two designations, indicating a lack of coordination and communication.
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
The Committee decision with regard to the clarification of the site’s boundaries has been implemented, as indicated in the Decision 33COM 8D (World Heritage Committee, 2009). Since then, the site has received no recommendation by the Committee.
Climate action
Increasing drought periods due to climate change are considered a potential threat to the site (State Party of Greece, 2024). Currently, no climate mitigating action plan or strategy has been developed so far.
Management plan and overall management system
Although there is a management authority for the protection of the cultural and archaeological heritage of the site as a Sacred Site, as well as guidelines and the general policy by the competent Ministry for the protection of monuments, until recently, there was no specific authority for the management of the site’s natural heritage, although, it is located within a Natura 2000 site. An important step has been establishing the responsible body for the management of the property and overlapping Natura 2000 sites. The Management Unit of Protected Areas of Thessaly that belongs to Natural Environment & Climate Change Agency (N.E.C.C.A.) is the centralized entity created in 2020 for the management of the protected areas of Greece. A Management Plan for the site was being prepared (IUCN Consultation, 2020a), however, the timeline for this process is unclear and currently the management plan is still not available. In addition, the management system is lacking a Ministerial Decision defining zones and land uses in the area (IUCN Consultation, 2020b).
Law enforcement
The Management Body for the Natura 2000 site lacks presence in the area since its headquarters are more than 100km away and understaffed. Also, the limited questioning authority duties of Management Body/NECCA's stuff creates problems in law enforcement. Moreover, effective law enforcement is hindered by lack of staff and resources (IUCN Consultation, 2020b; State Party of Greece, 2024).
Sustainable finance
The available financial budget is considered acceptable with room for improvements in the last Periodic Report submitted by the State Party (State Party of Greece, 2024), however no further information has been identified to corroborate this statement. The monasteries invest the entrance fees of the museums that operate in many monasteries in restoration and conservation activities necessary for the maintenance of the monuments. European Programmes of the Community Support Framework (CSF) constitute other sources of funding.
Staff capacity, training and development
According to the last Periodic Report, human resources partly meet the management needs of the property (State Party of Greece, 2024). A lack of professionals in environmental sustainability and enforcement has been noted. Currently, no training and development programmes are available for the staff of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Trikala, which is responsible for the management of the site.
Education and interpretation programmes
The majority of visitors are well aware of the World Heritage status of the site. There is a sufficient number of signs indicating its status and the World Heritage Convention Emblem is used in certain publications. There is still need, though, for more effective awareness raising, particularly regarding the sacred nature of the site and the monastic lifestyle which require silence and solitude (IUCN Consultation, 2017). Limited and ad hoc education and awareness programme are available for youth and children (State Party of Greece, 2024).
Tourism and visitation management
The Municipality of Meteora has decided to conclude a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Tourism, for the Management and Promotion of the Municipality of Meteora as a Model Tourist Destination within the framework of the action "Tourism Development and Destination Management" of the Ministry's National Development and Resilience Plan (TornosNews, 2025).
This action aims to improve the management of tourist destinations through the creation and operation of local and regional Destination Management and Promotion Organizations (DMMOs), as well as their interconnection with the National Observatory for Sustainable Tourism Development.
Although hundreds of thousands of visitors are estimated to visit the site yearly (State Party of Greece, 2024), only a limited number holds a sufficient understanding of its spiritual nature. Meteora is mostly valued for their breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring shapes. When monks engage in meaningful conversations with people (whenever possible) they report a change of attitude and a deeper appreciation of the sacred site and its relation to the natural environment. More effective communication means might make interpretation easier (additional signs, relevant information provided by guides and monks during conducted tours, printed material, etc.). A visitor centre for all monasteries is provided by the local municipality, and at some monasteries site museums are open to the public.
This action aims to improve the management of tourist destinations through the creation and operation of local and regional Destination Management and Promotion Organizations (DMMOs), as well as their interconnection with the National Observatory for Sustainable Tourism Development.
Although hundreds of thousands of visitors are estimated to visit the site yearly (State Party of Greece, 2024), only a limited number holds a sufficient understanding of its spiritual nature. Meteora is mostly valued for their breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring shapes. When monks engage in meaningful conversations with people (whenever possible) they report a change of attitude and a deeper appreciation of the sacred site and its relation to the natural environment. More effective communication means might make interpretation easier (additional signs, relevant information provided by guides and monks during conducted tours, printed material, etc.). A visitor centre for all monasteries is provided by the local municipality, and at some monasteries site museums are open to the public.
Sustainable use
For hundreds of years, the monks responsible for the operation of the monasteries have used sustainably natural resources for their subsistence. Moreover, the sacred nature of the site has been proved beneficial for the conservation of the natural environment included in Buffer Zone A. However, modern land uses have an adverse effect on the integrity of the site. Large visitor numbers and heavy traffic within the site exert considerable pressures on the habitat and climate change consequences may further jeopardise the site. Currently, sustainable forms of tourism are been encouraged, mainly concerning alternative sports activities (walking in traditional paths, biking, yoga etc.) organized by local offices, and activities related to sustainable food, such as mushroom collecting excursions by a local private museum (State Party of Greece, 2024).
Monitoring
The absence of a management plan for the natural heritage of the site goes along with the absence of monitoring activities. Its establishment will permit the development of relevant indicators, which should focus on the main threats. No official monitoring programme is in place for the cultural heritage of the site either. The LIFE project titled: ‘Urgent measures to secure the survival of the Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) in Bulgaria and Greece’, which included Meteora, completed in 2016, found that only one pair remained in the site (one of the five remaining in the whole of Greece) and that at least 4 Egyptian vultures have been poisoned in the area since 2012 due to the illegal use of poison (LIFE10 NAT/BG/000152). By 2020, only one individual was left in the wider area (LIFE16 NAT/BG/000874). NECCA monitors the Egyptian Vulture and supports the operation of the local feeding station after the end of the project. There is no evidence of monitoring of the status of other endangered bird species, nor of the status of the numerous endemic flora species in the site, apart from the monitoring done in a 6 years cycle for the reporting of the Natura 2000 directives.
Research
There is considerable research conducted at the property but not directed towards management needs and/or improving the understanding of the OUV (State Party of Greece, 2024). A recent study developed a geospatial tool for the management of hiking trails in the Holy Site of Meteora (Potsiou et al., 2023) with the aim of harmonising the natural and cultural aspects of the site and redistribute visitor flows. Within the framework of the project ‘Management actions in SPAs in Greece’ a comprehensive Special Environmental Study has been drafted in 2000. An additional ornithological study has been carried out in 2009 as part of a re-evaluation programme for 69 IBAs of Greece launched by the Ministry of Environment. The LIFE project titled: ‘Urgent measures to secure the survival of the Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) in Bulgaria and Greece’, which included Meteora, completed in 2016, found that only one pair remained in the site (one of the five remaining in the whole of Greece) and that at least 4 Egyptian vultures have been poisoned in the area since 2012 due to the illegal use of poison (LIFE10 NAT/BG/000152). By 2020, only one individual was left in the wider area (LIFE16 NAT/BG/000874). Also, the project LIFE Bear Smart Corridors (LIFE20 NAT/NL/001107) is performing research and conservation actions for Brown Bear at the area. There is no evidence of monitoring of the status of other endangered bird species, nor of the status of the numerous endemic flora species in the site.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
The World Heritage site of Meteora is included in the broader Natura 2000 area (SPA Antichasia Mountains and Meteora), therefore the protection and management system is in principle able to address threats outside the site, as well. The Ministry of Environment has been developing Special Environmental Studies and Management Plans for the Natura 2000 sites in Greece.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
Except for the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change, the broader area is also under the jurisdiction of other Ministries, such as the Ministry of Development, Competitiveness, Infrastructure, Transport and Networks, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, other competent Ministries, the Church and the Region of Thessaly. This management system, according to the Periodic report (2006, 2024), is considered rather effective. However, there is a lack of effective management on the ground, and no management effectiveness evaluation has been undertaken (IUCN Consultation, 2017). The Management Body for the Natura 2000 site lacks presence in the area since its headquarters are more than 100km away. Moreover, the latter body and the local Forestry Service Department are severely understaffed and under-resourced, which negatively affects effective management on the ground (IUCN Consultation, 2020b).
An important step has been establishing the responsible body for the management of the property and overlapping Natura 2000 sites. The Management Unit of Protected Areas of Thessaly that belongs to Natural Environment & Climate Change Agency (N.E.C.C.A.) is the centralized entity created in 2020 for the management of the protected areas of Greece. An integrated plan that will take into account in a holistic manner the natural and cultural heritage of the site (which involves updating the existing management plan for the Natura 2000 area) and its effective implementation could greatly benefit the conservation of all the site's values.
Superlative natural phenomenon
Low Concern
Trend
Stable
The famous Meteroa rock pillars have been so far unaffected by the mostly low threats that endanger the site (State Party of Greece, 2006). Large visitor numbers, however, must be controlled in order to avoid degradation trends in the future and the much needed management authority for natural heritage will ensure the sustainable development of the broader area.
Landscape of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance
Low Concern
Trend
Stable
This unique landscape could be more efficiently safeguarded if it was not overwhelmed by tourism demands, which sustain financially the monasteries and allow for the conservation of the cultural heritage, but must be regulated to protect the spiritual and natural values of the site (State Party of Greece, 2006; Meliadis et al., 2000). The geological features have remained unchanged for thousands of years. Although the character of the impressive rock formations has been preserved, both the aesthetic quality and integrity of the surrounding landscape have deteriorated, mainly due to inadequate development and agricultural practices, along with heavy traffic within the site (IUCN Consultation, 2017).
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Stable
The outstanding universal value of Meteora is not at serious risk. However, there are a large number of mostly low threats whose cumulative impact is increasing the risk of deteriorating some of the natural, cultural and spiritual values. To reduce current threats and reverse existing negative impacts, the site and the broader area would require the establishment of a competent body that undertakes updating and implementation of the management plan for the whole protected area of Antichasia-Meteora, similarly to the Ephorate of Antiquities of Trikala that manages Meteora’s cultural values. Setting up of monitoring mechanisms will ensure that natural and cultural parameters will be controlled
Assessment of the current state and trend of other important biodiversity values
High Concern
Data Deficient
The broader area of Antichasia Mountains and Meteora is an important biotope, which hosts a large number of flora and fauna species, many of them endangered. Uncontrolled human activities and climate change pose a serious threat on the integrity of the site; ornithological studies in the past indicate a decline in the population of several endangered vultures since the time of the site’s inscription (Bourdakis, 2009) and a number of high threats to several species were identified (BirdLife, 2020). The lack of proper management measures and monitoring system, further limited by recent financial restraints of the state authorities pose further concern. Updated information is urgently required to assess the current condition of most species of fauna and flora.
Additional information
Importance for research
Although museums operate in each monastery, their premises can be considered as museums in their entirety. Splendid examples of Byzantine and Post-byzantine architecture, one only visit to them may provide invaluable knowledge to scientists and the general public. Famous painters such as Theophanes the Cretan (founder of the Cretan School of painting) and Frangos Katelanos, created their masterpieces in the monasteries of Meteora.
Outdoor recreation and tourism
Most of the numerous visitors are not pilgrims, hence they choose Meteora as a destination due to its outstanding cultural and natural values. Eco-tourism, cultural tourism, sports tourism, along with religious tourism, constitute the main source of income for the local community, which has abandoned all traditional economic activities and rely almost exclusively on tourism.
Wilderness and iconic features
The views of the huge rock pillars that resemble a stone forest are awe-inspiring and the impression on visitors is enhanced by the presence of the monasteries on their tops. This outstanding sacred landscape is considered unique in the world.
Sacred natural sites or landscapes
Intact through the centuries, Meteora Sacred Natural Site maintained its integrity because of its sacred nature and has been receiving immense numbers of pilgrims since the establishment of the monasteries. Hundreds of faithful seek their spiritual guidance on an everyday basis and the monks are kept busy in an attempt to comfort and support those in need.
History and tradition
The monasteries are unique specimens of religious architecture (Byzantine and Post-byzantine), hosting remarkable works of art (frescos, icons, manuscripts, vestments, silverware, etc.). The surviving monuments of Meteora represent an illustrative example of the Late Byzantine religious architecture and painting. The impressive monasteries were established in the 15th century and are characteristic examples of human determination. They constituted the field in which anonymous and famous architects, painters, craftsmen and labourers excelled.
Meteora World Heritage site has a lot to offer to both locals and visitors. The outstanding cultural and spiritual values, paired with its educational role and potential and the benefits provided by the environment have shaped a unique site, which must be safeguarded at all costs. A fine example of the interaction between nature and people, they provide the ideal setting for recreation, contemplation, environmental education and support of the local economy.
| № | Organization | Brief description of Active Projects | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BirdLife Bulgaria), the Hellenic Ornithological Society (BirdLife Greece), the World Wildlife Fund Greece -WWF Greece, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (BirdLife UK) (RSPB), Doğa Derneği (BirdLife Turkey), BirdLife Middle East, BirdLife Africa, A.P. Leventis Ornithological and Research Institute (APLORI), CMS Raptors MoU, Green Balkans | The aim of the project is to save the easternmost European Egyptian Vulture population by delivering urgent conservation measures to address major known threats at breeding grounds and also along the flyway. |
www.lifeneophron.eu
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| 2 | Rewilding Europe – Coordinating Beneficiary, TRIKALA DEVELOPMENT AGENCY – KENAKAP S.A.,Rewilding Apennines, Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise, Salviamo l’Orso, Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, Parco Regionale Sirente Velino, Monte Genzana Alto Gizio Natural Reserve, Pettorano sul Gizio, CALLISTO, ARCTUROS, University of Thessaly, Municipality of Amyntaio | LIFE Bear-Smart Corridors aims to boost populations of Europe’s iconic brown bear in Central Italy and Greece through the development of “coexistence corridors”. Here, local communities are learning to live peacefully alongside this majestic species. |
https://rewilding-apennines.com/life-bear-smart-corridors/
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References
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| 2 |
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Hellenic Ornithological Society (2013). Important bird areas of Greece: gr053 Antikhassia mountains and Meteora.
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