Kalambaka is a small town in the Thessaly region of Greece, best known as the starting point for visiting the famous Meteora monasteries. The city is located at the foot of the Meteora Rocks, which are among the most impressive natural beauties in Greece. The rocks are known for their unique monasteries built on their peaks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
History of the Meteora Monasteries
The history of the Meteora monasteries dates back to the 14th century, when monks began to live in the caves of the rocks. Over the years, more and more monasteries were built on the rocks, until eventually there were six main monasteries. The monasteries played an important role in the history of Greece and were threatened by various conquerors and wars over the centuries. Today, the monasteries are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.
Visit to the Meteora monasteries
Meteora Monasteries, Image: Zebra Studio / shutterstock
There are several ways to visit the Meteora monasteries. Most visitors choose a guided tour, which usually includes a visit to two to three monasteries. The tours can be booked in Kalambaka and are a great way to learn more about the history and importance of the monasteries. Alternatively, visitors can also get to the monasteries individually by car or on foot.
The monasteries are not open to everyone, and visitors must follow certain dress codes. Women must cover shoulders and knees, and men must wear long pants. The monasteries have different opening hours and entrance fees, and it is advisable to research in advance which monasteries you want to visit.
Kalambaka itself is also worth a visit. The town has a charming old town with traditional Greek houses and narrow streets. There are many restaurants and cafes serving traditional Greek cuisine, as well as shops selling local products.
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Kalambaka and the Meteora monasteries are a must-see for every visitor to Greece. The impressive rocks and monasteries offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. Visitors should plan enough time to visit the monasteries at their leisure and also to explore the city of Kalambaka.
Patras is a port city in the west of Greece and is the third largest city in the country. It is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Greek coastal landscapes and the culture and history of Greece. Patras is also known as the host of the annual Carnival festivities, which are considered the largest in Greece.
Sights in Patras
One of the city’s landmarks is the impressive Rio-Antirrio Bridge, one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world, which spans the Gulf of Patras and connects the islands of the Ionian Sea to the mainland. The view from the bridge to the sea and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking and should not be missed on any trip to Patras.
Another highlight of the city is the Archaeological Museum of Patras, which houses a collection of artifacts and excavations from the ancient city of Patras and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about the rich history of the region and admire the remains of temples, theaters, and other ancient buildings.
Carnival in Patras, Image: Aerial-motion / shutterstock
For nature lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside in Patras, including the beaches on the coast of the Gulf of Patras and the Panachaion mountain range, which rises to the west of the city. Hikers can hike here on well-marked trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
When it comes to nightlife, Patras has a lively bar and club scene that is concentrated in the area around the port. There is also a wide range of traditional taverns where you can enjoy the local cuisine and taste the wine from the region.
The Patras Carnival is another attraction that takes place every year in February and attracts visitors from all over the world. The festivities last for several weeks and include parades, music, dancing and fireworks. The highlight is the “Great Parade” on the last weekend of the carnival, where the streets are filled with people in colorful costumes and masks.
Patras is also an ideal base for exploring other parts of Greece. The city is a short drive from Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and is also a good starting point for trips to the islands of the Ionian Sea.
Olympia, one of the most important places in Greek history and home of the Olympic Games. Located in the west of the Peloponnese peninsula, the city is famous for its ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural significance.
Olympia, Image: Mark and Anna Photography / shutterstock
The Olympic Games were first held in Olympia in 776 BC and were held every four years. The place was a religious center, and the games were part of a celebration in honor of the god Zeus. Today, visitors can tour the ancient ruins and feel the spirit of the ancient games. The Temple of Zeus, the Altis area and the ancient stadium are some of the main attractions.
In addition to the ruins, Olympia also offers stunning scenery that is perfect for hiking and exploring. The green hills, covered by cypress and olive trees, provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking and biking.
Another highlight of Olympia is the Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, including statues and relics from the Olympic Games. The museum is a great addition to visiting the ancient ruins and gives visitors a deeper insight into the history of the Olympic Games.
Away from ancient history, Olympia also offers a variety of activities for visitors. The city has a number of restaurants where you can sample Greek cuisine, as well as bars and cafes where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere. The town is also an ideal base for trips to nearby beaches and other attractions in the region.
Epidaurus is an ancient city on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, known for its impressive theater and sacred sanctuaries. This place was once the center of the cult of the god of healing, Asclepius, and was a popular destination for pilgrims in search of healing and well-being. Today, Epidaurus is an important archaeological site that attracts visitors from all over the world.
One of the most recognizable features of Epidaurus is the theater, which dates back to the 4th century BC and is considered one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. The theatre is famous for its excellent acoustics and is often used for performances and concerts. An interesting fact about the acoustics of the theater is that even a whisper on stage can be clearly heard in the back seats.
In addition to the theatre, there is also the sanctuary of Asclepius, which served as a place of healing and regeneration. Here, pilgrims and patients in search of healing and relief from their suffering could find support. The sanctuary includes various temples, fountains, and baths, as well as a museum that explains the history and significance of the place in more detail.
Another attraction in Epidaurus is the Archaeological Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts from the region. Exhibits include sculptures, inscriptions, and relics from the sanctuary of Asclepius, as well as ancient weapons and everyday objects from the area.
Epidaurus is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Greece. The scenery is breathtaking, providing an impressive backdrop to the ancient ruins and sights. It is a place where one can experience the past and the present while discovering the beauty and mysticism of Greek culture.
Those planning a visit should take time to explore the surrounding area and visit the nearby towns and villages. One of the most popular options is Nafplio, a beautiful coastal town with a rich history and a wealth of cultural activities.
Mycenae, a city on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, is a place of great historical and archaeological importance. The city is known for its connection to ancient Greek mythology and its impressive ruins that attract visitors from all over the world.
Mycenae was founded in the 2nd millennium BC and developed into a thriving city during the 14th and 13th centuries BC. It was the center of the Mycenaean Empire, which was one of the most powerful forces in the Eastern Mediterranean at the time. The city also played an important role in Greek mythology and was the hometown of King Agamemnon, one of the main characters in Homer’s epic “The Iliad”.
Today, Mycenae is known for its archaeological remains, which are located on a hill near the modern city of Mycenae. The ruins include the remains of the city walls, the Tholos tombs and the famous Lion’s Gate. The Lion’s Gate is the symbol of the city and Mycenaean culture and depicts two lions standing upright and guarding the entrance to the city.
Acropolis of Mycenae
The Lion’s Gate, Image: Vineyard Perspective / shutterstock
One of the most impressive features of Mycenae is the Acropolis, which is located on the hill above the city. The Acropolis was the religious and political center of the city and contains remains of temples, palaces, and residential buildings. Visitors can explore the remains of the Palace of Agamemnon, which is said to have stood near the Lion’s Gate.
Another important attraction in Mycenae are the Tholos tombs, which originate from the 14th and 13th centuries BC. These tombs are impressive round buildings with a dome and were built for important personalities of the Mycenaean culture. The most famous of these tombs is the so-called Treasury of Atreus, which is considered one of the most impressive structures of Mycenaean architecture.
In addition to the archaeological remains, Mycenae also offers a picturesque setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The city is close to the coast and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beaches and crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The remains of the city and the mythological connections make Mycenae one of the most significant places in Greek history.
Bhubaneswar is the capital and also the largest city of the state of Odisha, which is located in eastern India. It is considered “the city of temples” because it has around 35 old and hundreds of new Hindu temples, most of which are dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The population is about 850,000 and consists of about 95% Hindus, 3% Muslims and the rest Christians, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs. As is generally the case in India , the male population is 10% more strongly represented here. The regional languages are Odia, English and Hindi.
Bhubaneswar is located on the west bank of the Mahanadi River, which meanders through eastern India over a length of almost 850 kilometers. With a size of 135 km², the city of temples measures less than a fifth of Berlin or half of Vienna. The climate of the city is, as usual for India, very warm. Even in the winter months from November to February, the maximum daily temperatures are around 30°C.
After 1990, a lot of time was invested in the modernization of the city and a large number of small and medium-sized companies have settled here. In 2014, the city was even ranked as the best business location in India. Bhubaneswar Airport is the only one in the region and was named the best airport of India in 2013. The main railway station is located on the important Haora and Kolkata to Chennai route and thus has connections to Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad. Bhubaneswar is also strong in the field of education and can boast three universities, including Utkal University. The latter was founded in 1943, making it the oldest university in Odisha.
A city full of sights
Bhubaneswar offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in culture, like hiking or just want to unwind! Cultural highlights include the Konark Sun Temple and the sandstone Rajarani Temple, built in the 12th century. Likewise, the Brahmeshwar Temple, the Mukteshwar Temple and the Lingaraj Temple, which is also known as the largest temple of Bhubaneswar, cannot be missed. All of them were 9. and Built in the 10th century, they are a precious treasure of Indian history, both architecturally and mythologically. Typical for most temples is the steeply rising tower structure and the division into a sanctum area with a cult image and a assembly hall in front of it.
In addition to numerous temples, the Odisha State Museum is also worth seeing. It is now one of the most important museums in all of India. Here you can see unique sculptures from all parts of the country, as well as tablets and coins, but also specimens of extinct and endangered animals and handicrafts such as musical instruments and textiles. Since 2018, there has also been the Odisha Crafts Museum, which, spread over eight rooms, is dedicated to different types of craftsmanship. The special thing here is that the buildings were built in the style of traditional huts. The walls are decorated with paintings and clay figures sit on the roofs.
Always up for a trip
Odissi dancer, Image: ShaikhMeraj / shutterstock
The Dhauli Giri Hills are particularly suitable for an excursion. They are known for a rock edict of Emperor Ashoka that is over 2000 years old, which is now protected with a building made largely of glass. Only a few meters above you will find a rocky dome from which the front part of an elephant has been carved out. It is believed that this sculpture is one of the oldest surviving sculptures in all of India. Another absolute highlight is the Shanti Stupa, which was built in 1972 and is lined with wide staircases and houses impressive statues.
Another attraction is certainly the Udayagiri and Chandagiri caves. They are among the oldest cave monasteries in India and are located in a rocky terrain just outside Bhubaneswar. However, they are very easy to reach by taxi. The entire complex comprises about 33 caves and, due to the naming of rulers in the form of inscriptions, can be traced back to the 2. and 3rd century BC.
With a short bus ride you can also reach the Chausath Yogini Temple. This testifies to a matriarchal cult of the gods and shows more or less well-preserved statues of 60 female deities.
The palate also needs a vacation once in a while
Not only the countless temples, but also the unique dishes make the holiday in Bhubaneswar unforgettable. Let’s start the palate journey with Dalma, a simple but very tasty lentil dish. It continues with Chungdi-Malai, so that even non-vegetarians get their money’s worth. The shrimp curry impresses with a successful mixture of curry, coconut milk, ginger, cinnamon and red chili powder. In addition to tasty curries, numerous desserts are also a speciality around Bhubaneswar. Chhena poda is similar to a cheesecake and consists of semolina, raisins, sugar, crumbled paneer, almonds and cashew nuts. Rasabli is also a must-try. The small donut-shaped tikkis, made with cottage cheese, flour, semolina and sugar, and then fried until golden brown and marinated in thickened milk. A real treat for the palate!
The Brahmaputra, in German “son of Brahma”, is one of the largest rivers in the world. It rises in the Himalayas in Tibet and flows through China, India and Bangladesh. On the way, it is fed by numerous bodies of water and changes its name several times. From the roof of the world at an altitude of 5200 meters, the river makes its way to the Bay of Bengal to flow into the Indian Ocean in the world’s largest coastal delta. On the long journey from its source to its mouth, the Brahmaputra covers a distance of 3100 kilometers through multifaceted landscapes and cultures. Among other things, it crosses the Assam Valley in India.
The magic and multifaceted nature of India is revealed on a cruise along the banks of the Brahmaputra. While passengers immerse themselves in an exciting and exotic world and discover its beauties, they enjoy the advantages and luxury of a comfortable cruise ship as well as a pleasant atmosphere and reliable accommodation. On the journey to new destinations and impressions, the hotel always travels with you. The Brahmaputra adventure can be experienced in a relaxed way on a river cruise.
The fascinating journey leads through the country’s incomparable nature with imposing landscapes, dense jungle and green forests. In the Assam Valley there are ten national parks and wildlife sanctuaries such as the well-known Kaziranga National Park. In addition, you will get to know the rich culture of India while visiting cities steeped in history.
On safari in Kaziranga National Park
Elephants in Kaziranga National Park, Image: Aditya Singh / shutterstock
In the districts of Golaghat and Nagoan in the northern Indian state of Assam lies the Kaziranga National Park, one of the most beautiful places in India. It was founded in 1904 and 68 years later it was declared a national park. Since 1985, the park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has an area of more than 900 square kilometers and consists of tall grasslands, tropical forests and swamps as well as extensive elephant grasslands. In the north and east, the protected area is bordered by the Brahmaputra. It is the habitat for numerous rare animal species, including wild water buffalo, river dolphins, Asian elephants, Bengal tigers and Barasing deer. In addition, the park is one of the last protected areas of the Indian rhinoceros and is home to over 70% of the world’s total population. A safari in a jeep or on the back of an elephant allows visitors to get up close and personal with wild animals such as monkeys and tigers. It is also worth visiting the tea gardens and the villages of the rural tribes of the Karbi and the Mising on Majuli, the largest river island in the world.
Temples, palaces and historical sites line the path of river cruisers in India
Silghat, the town on the southern bank of the Brahmaputras, is the gateway to Kaziranga National Park and the Butterfly Forest. Last but not least, the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape makes the place an attraction for numerous tourists. Guwahati is the capital of the northeastern state of Assam. The metropolis between the picturesque hills of the Himalayan mountains is known as the gateway to northeastern India. Located on Nilachal Hill, Kamakhya Devi Temple is one of the most interesting sights.
It was built in the 10th century by King Naranarayan. Above Kamakhya is the smaller temple Bhubaneshwari, which offers a spectacular view of the city. On Mount Bhasmacala, on an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra, stands the Umananda Temple, built by King Gadadhar Singha. The State Museum, the Anthropological Museum, the Forest Museum and the Museum of Home Industry are treasure troves of Assam’s rich cultural past.
On the north bank of the mighty Brahmaputra River lies the beautiful city of Tezpur, the cultural center of Assam with a rich history. Worth seeing include the Da-Parbatia, one of the oldest and most beautiful collections of sculptural art in Assam, and the ruins of the Bamuni hill from the 9. and 10th century. The area is also famous for its tea plantations and hilly tea gardens.
One of India’s holiest pilgrimage centers is the Shiva Dol Temple from the Ahom Dynasty in Sibsagar. Its seven-foot-high dome, called Kolosi, is made of pure gold. Walls and columns inside the temple are decorated with figures and images of Hindu gods and goddesses.
Tea and silk on the banks of the river
Assam is known not least for the cultivation of tea. Especially in the valley of the Brahmaputra there are numerous tea plantations that produce the famous Assam tea. On a tour you will learn interesting details about tea production.
Sualkuchi, a tranquil village on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River, is the centre of textile production in Assam. For this reason, the silk weaving village is also known as the Manchester of India. The fine Assam silk is not produced anywhere else in the world. The place worth seeing with the rustic charm and its bamboo houses has become a popular tourist destination.
Esna, a city in the Luxor region of Egypt, is a beautiful and historically significant city that is worth visiting. This city is famous for its temple dedicated to the god Khnum and is often referred to as the gateway to Upper Egypt.
Knuhum Temple in Esna
View of the ceiling of the Esna Temple showing the Lotus Pillars, Image: harleyfp / shutterstock
The Khnum Temple in Esna is one of the best-preserved temples of ancient Egypt. It was built between the Built in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, it is an impressive example of the architecture and art of the Ptolemaic period. The temple is also known for its remarkable astronomical relief depictions on the walls, which represent the twelve hours of the night and refer to the movements of the stars. A visit to the Khnum Temple in Esna is therefore an absolute must.
The city also has a traditional bazaar district where visitors can buy exotic spices, jewelry, handicrafts, and carpets. The bazaar is a lively place that showcases the cultural and artisanal diversity of Egypt. Here you can haggle with the friendly merchants and take a piece of Egyptian culture home with you.
Another highlight in Esna is a boat trip on the Nile. Many tourists choose to ride a boat along the river to enjoy the beauty of the banks of the Nile while admiring the ancient temples that can be seen along the shore. Such a boat trip can also be an excellent starting point for a visit to the nearby temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, which are also impressive examples of ancient Egyptian architecture.
The city of Esna also offers many opportunities for recreational activities. For example, there are some golf courses in the area that can be used by tourists to spend their day. Some hotels also offer wellness and relaxation facilities such as spas and massage parlors where guests can relax and be pampered.
Esna is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a unique experience. Whether you’re visiting the ancient temples, strolling through the bazaars, or taking a boat ride on the Nile, Esna is a place where you won’t get bored. It is a perfect destination for travelers who want to discover Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.
The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most impressive structures of the ancient world and a must-see for any visitor to the Eternal City. Built between 70 and 80 AD, this monumental amphitheater was a place where gladiator fights, animal fights, and other public events took place.
The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most recognizable landmarks and an impressive example of Roman architecture and engineering. It is a masterpiece of engineering, built of sandstone and brick and could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators. It was the largest amphitheater of antiquity and is now the symbol of the eternal city.
The Colosseum was the place where some of the most famous events in ancient Rome took place. Here, gladiators fought in fierce battles for their lives and to entertain the audience. Animal fights, such as lions against humans, were also very popular and attracted the masses. But theatre performances and other public events were also held here.
Despite its importance as a symbol of Roman power and culture, the Colosseum has suffered many changes and damage over the centuries. It was used as a fortress, quarry, and even as a Christian shrine. In the Middle Ages, parts of the building were dismantled to make new buildings. Nevertheless, the Colosseum remains one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the world and an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
The Colosseum is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome. It is a place where you can experience the history of the city and the Roman Empire up close. Visitors can walk through the interior of the building and imagine what it must have been like when the amphitheater was still in operation. From the upper tiers you have a breathtaking view of the surrounding grounds and the city of Rome.
If you want to visit the Colosseum, you should get up early to avoid long queues. A guided tour is recommended to understand the full extent of the history and architecture of the Colosseum. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow enough time to explore the different areas of the building.
The Colosseum is a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of Roman history. A visit to Rome is incomplete without a trip to the Colosseum. The impressive building is a marvel of engineering and a must-see for anyone interested in the ancient world and the history of Rome.
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the world and a symbol of the beauty and splendor of the Indian subcontinent. Built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the mausoleum is a perfect example of the splendor and richness of Mughal art and one of India’s most visited tourist attractions.
The Taj Mahal is located in the city of Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh and was built between 1632 and 1653. It was built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during the birth of her 14th child. The structure was built by thousands of workers and craftsmen recruited from different parts of India and even from the Middle East, Persia and Central Asia.
The Taj Mahal is made of white marble and is a perfect example of Mughal architecture. It is surrounded by a spacious garden crossed by symmetrical water channels. The main building is a perfect example of the art of incrustation, where precious and semi-precious stones were carved into the marble to create intricate geometric patterns and floral ornaments.
The mausoleum consists of a central dome and four minarets that sit on a square platform. Inside are the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, which are surrounded by numerous ornate marble works and relief representations. The dome is decorated with gilded frescoes and inscriptions from Koranic verses, which impress the visitor with their beauty and magnificence.
The Taj Mahal is an impressive structure at any time of the day, but it’s especially worth visiting at sunrise or sunset, when the colors of the marble appear different depending on the sunlight. However, it can get very hot and crowded during the hot summer months, so it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Overall, the Taj Mahal is a landmark of India and a must-see for every visitor to the country. It is a perfect example of the beauty and splendor of Mughal art and a place that enchants visitors with its beauty and history. A visit to the Taj Mahal is an unforgettable experience that excites and inspires any traveler.
