A Mystical City Up In The Air

by Nilay Cevher (Turkey)

I didn't expect to find Greece

Greece is commonly known as a country for beautiful beaches, tavernas with ouzo, seafood and friendly people, which is definitely true. But Greece is more than that... Meteora, a city with ancient monasteries built on hills was such a surprise to me. I was lucky that the rainy and dark weather added the city's already existing mystic aura. You are both amazed by the greatness of the constructions and they make you feel like you are not on Earth. I am sure some places made you feel this way. It also happened to me in Cappadocia. As a non-believer, I had to pray all the time I spent among those Orthodox monasteries which are still active and open to visitors. It makes me very emotional, my prayers came true... That city has a strong, magical power over you and it makes you lighter. It was a silent, self-discovery visit for me. Actually, funny that I went to Greece with a bus-load of dancers to enjoy every cliche bit of Greece. I did not expect that trip to turn into a mystical, spiritual journey. I touched every wall, hugged each tree and talked to them. Getting wet but the rain in June did not even bother me. I would find the rain in June in another place very irritating. Come on... Who wouldn't? I believe some places on Earth call you, attract you without your awareness. You are just attracted to a place and have to go there, see and experience it. You never know what it was all about until you make it. Then you know.. It was about you, about reaching your inner peace. Kalambaka is the town around which the monasteries are located. One is surprised how come such a touristic town with nice bars and tavernas with a lot of tourists keep its mysticism. You should find the answer yourself. Some places aid passengers of the road of mindfulness and self-awareness like Meteora...