A dramatic mountain rescue operation took place near the Greek city of Volos, where a 41-year-old monk was pulled to safety after spending 72 hours trapped in a remote ravine following a fall in rugged terrain.
The man was discovered alive on Friday evening after four hikers heard his cries for help while passing through the area. They immediately contacted emergency services via Greece’s 112 hotline, triggering a large-scale rescue operation.
Fall in remote and inaccessible terrain
According to reports, the monk had been walking in the forested area of Vathirema, between the settlements of Klimata Fytokou and Makrinitsa, when he lost his footing and fell into a steep gorge.
He suffered a serious leg injury and was unable to move, while dense vegetation, rocky cliffs and the absence of marked trails left him completely stranded.
The ravine is known for being extremely difficult to access, even for experienced hikers, making the search and rescue operation particularly challenging.
Survival in extreme conditions
Despite his injuries, the monk managed to survive for three days in isolation. According to information cited by local sources, he dragged himself into a small cave to protect himself from the cold and possible wildlife.
He also had access to a natural water source, which helped him stay hydrated and avoid further deterioration. Authorities said his familiarity with the area played a crucial role in his survival, as he remained calm and conscious of the risks of unnecessary movement.
Coordinated rescue operation
The Volos Fire Service launched an immediate response once the alarm was raised. Nine firefighters and a rescue specialist from the emergency medical service participated in the operation, navigating steep slopes and limited visibility to reach the stranded man.
Around 9:40 p.m., rescuers successfully located and reached him inside the ravine. He was carefully placed on a stretcher and carried through difficult terrain to an accessible point where an ambulance was waiting.
The monk was then transported to hospital in Volos. He was exhausted, dehydrated and seriously injured, but medical staff confirmed that he was not in immediate danger of losing his life.
