As Close to Heaven as it Gets

If you’ve ever felt like the modern world is just a bit too loud, these ancient sanctuaries offer the perfect escape into tranquility and architectural wonder. Monasteries aren't just for monks; they’re incredible time capsules that showcase how humans have sought peace and beauty in some of the most remote corners of the planet. With that in mind, here is a look at 20 breathtaking examples of human ingenuity.

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1. Meteora, Greece

Atop towering pillars of sandstone that stretch toward the heavens, visitors can wander between these architectural masterpieces in the central Greek region of Meteora. It’s difficult to fathom how workers once delivered supplies up those rocks to construct these structures, let alone imagine living there. Now, you can visit these “columns of heaven” for a truly one-of-a-kind view.

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2. Mont-Saint-Michel, France

Appearing as it does straight out of a fairy tale, visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel are rewarded with unmatched views when the tide rolls in around the ancient fortified walls. Perched atop the tidal island is the Benedictine abbey, crowning the stone streets that spiral you higher into this island in Normandy. Don’t miss exploring the abbey’s Gothic cloisters with only the sound of the Atlantic waves reaching you.

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3. Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan

Popularly known as Paro Taktsang, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perched atop a mountainside overlooking the Paro Valley in Bhutan. Though the hike up is no small feat, your efforts are rewarded with one of the most photographed views in the Himalayas. Set against a backdrop of green-hazed mountains, this Buddhist monastery looks like something out of a fairy tale.

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4. Rila Monastery, Bulgaria

Imagine explorers discovering this breathtaking monastery high in the Balkan Mountains. The black-and-white-striped architecture and vivid paintings adorn this massive complex, which has been the epicenter of Bulgarian culture for centuries. This monastery is certainly something out of a fairy tale.

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5. Santa Catalina, Peru

Nicknamed the “city within a city,” this fascinating complex sits in Arequipa and boasts walls painted the brightest blue and volcanic red that shine under the Peruvian sun. Santa Catalina was home to hundreds of nuns who lived a secluded life here for centuries. Admire the beautifully colored buildings as you explore Santa Catalina’s streets and plazas full of flowers.

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6. Sumela Monastery, Turkey

Built into the cliffside of the Altindere Valley is a Greek Orthodox monastery that seems to hover over its surroundings. Step inside to find caves adorned with intricate biblical depictions that have been around since the fourth century. Take a trip into the Turkish countryside and hike to this hidden mystery tucked away in the mountains.

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7. Skellig Michael, Ireland

Perched high upon a rocky island in the Atlantic Ocean, Skellig Michael gives you the feeling that you’ve reached the end of the world. This series of beehive-shaped stone huts was home to monks who lived in solitude, away from civilization. Protected from intruders by steep staircases and cliffs, take a trip to this remote island to see where monks once called home.

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8. Monastery of the Temptation, Palestine

Facing down toward the city of Jericho is a series of chapels carved into the mountainside overlooking the Jordan Valley. Take a cable car up the mountain to reach the Church of the Temptation’s entrance. Marvel at how these ancient peoples used the land to create inspiring structures.

Dmitrij Rodionov, DR on Wikimedia

9. Khor Virap, Armenia

At the foothills of Mount Ararat is a beautiful monastery with views that are sure to take your breath away. It’s a place of great national pride since it’s where the country’s patron saint was held captive before Armenia became a Christian nation. Climb to the top of Khor Virap to enjoy the amazing view of Armenia’s most recognizable mountain.

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10. Saint Catherine’s, Egypt

Perched on the foothills of Mount Sinai is Saint Catherine’s Monastery, widely considered to be one of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries in the world. Take in the stars on a clear night and realize just how ancient and untouched this place feels. Inside, you can find a treasure trove of rare manuscripts and icons.

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11. Gelati Monastery, Georgia

The walls of this medieval beauty are lined with gold-ground mosaics and murals that highlight the artistic pinnacle of the Georgian Golden Age. Once home to one of the country’s most esteemed academies, many of history’s great scientists and philosophers studied within its vast halls of knowledge. Try to find each historical figure depicted throughout the intricate paintings of the main cathedral.

Ihor Burliai on Wikimedia

12. Ostrog Monastery, Montenegro

Built entirely into the vertical face of a cliff, the white walls appear as if the monastery itself is rising from inside the mountain. Today, it’s one of the most common pilgrimage sites for visitors of all faiths who wish to see the relics of Saint Basil and enjoy some quiet meditation. The hike up the switchback roads is treacherous, but you’ll forget all about it when you’re embraced by the spiritual energy at the summit.

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13. Alcobaça Monastery, Portugal

This colossal monastery complex was built in the early Gothic style and leaves visitors in awe of its high ceilings and simple, clean lines. You’ll be impressed by the sheer size of the kitchen, which features an incredibly large chimney. The tombs of King Pedro and Inês de Castro add a touch of tragic romance to the historical narrative of the halls.

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14. Ki Monastery, India

Balancing delicately on a mountainside in the Spiti Valley, this Tibetan Buddhist monastery is perched more than thirteen thousand feet above sea level. The juxtaposition of white buildings resembling enormous blocks of cheese stacked against a desert mountain makes for an otherworldly experience. The hike is well worth it.

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15. Melk Abbey, Austria

Offering stunning views over the Danube River, Melk Abbey is a picturesque yellow structure complete with the gold interiors you can only dream of. The library is filled with thousands of leather-bound books. It’s also famous for its frescoed ceilings.

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16. Montserrat, Spain

Found just a little outside of Barcelona, this monastery sits on top of unusual, rounded rock formations. Be sure to check out its famed Black Madonna statue and visit the monastery’s boys’ choir, one of Europe’s oldest. Hop on a funicular that takes you even higher to enjoy hiking trails.

Gyrofrog on Wikimedia

17. Tatev Monastery, Armenia

To reach this ninth-century fortress, you’ll likely take the "Wings of Tatev," which is one of the longest reversible cable cars in the world. The complex sits on a large basalt plateau on the edge of a deep gorge. Its intricate stone carvings and hidden underground passages make it a fascinating place to explore.

Diego Delso on Wikimedia

18. Certosa di San Giacomo, Italy

Take refuge at this tranquil monastery off the beaten path on the island of Capri. Tucked away from the tourist crowds lingering by the boat docks in the center of town, Certosa di San Giacomo is your best bet for some quiet time. It’s also nestled among white columns with lush gardens.

Norberto Chavez-Tapia on Wikimedia

19. Hozoviotissa Monastery, Greece

Perched high on the cliffs of Amorgos, this small monastery appears to sit above the clouds with its pure white exterior shining against the Aegean Sea. Measuring in at only five meters wide, visitors will marvel at the size of the building. Hike up the steep stairs to the entrance for some incredible panoramic views of the island.

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20. Phugtal Monastery, India

This is perhaps one of the most isolated monasteries on earth since it’s built around a natural cave and can only be reached on foot. The structure resembles a giant honeycomb clinging to the side of a canyon. It’s a place where time seems to have stopped.

Timothy A. Gonsalves on Wikimedia