Monasteries built atop natural rock pillars

The monastic complex of Meteora in central Greece consists of Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched on sheer sandstone pillars, some rising over 400 meters above the surrounding plain. Monks began building on the rock formations in the 14th century, originally reaching them only by removable ladders and hauled baskets. Six of the original monasteries remain active, and the site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.