The Meteora is a complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece, built on large sandstone rock pillars near the Pindus Mountains. Starting in the 11th century, hermit monks lived in the rocks, establishing the first monasteries by the 14th century to escape Turkish occupation. Today there are six surviving monasteries, only accessible via climbing nets or ladders, including the largest Great Meteoron monastery from the 14th century. The monasteries are considered one of Greece's most important religious sites and are a UNESCO World Heritage site.