Do you know what the Kefalonia - Ithaca Geopark is?

Perhaps some people are hearing the word geopark for the first time, or have heard it before without knowing exactly what it is. In any case, in this text, we present in detail what a geopark is and explain everything you need to know about the Kefalonia - Ithaca Geopark.

To begin with, we must emphasize that Kefalonia and Ithaca, two islands in a unique geographical zone, combine their rich geological and natural heritage with their cultural identity, offering an excellent environment for residents and visitors.

What is a geopark?

A Geopark is an area with a particular geological heritage of international significance and a strategy for sustainable territorial development. It should have clearly defined boundaries and sufficient space to allow for real territorial economic development, primarily through tourism. The geological sites should be of international importance in terms of their scientific quality, rarity, aesthetic appeal, and educational value. All these sites must be related not only to geology but also to archaeology, ecology, biodiversity, history, and culture.

Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark

Mr. Michalis Xanthakis, Deputy Head of the Management Unit of Protected Areas of Zakynthos and the Ionian Islands of OFYPEKA, speaking to kefalonianglobe.com, provides us with detailed information in the following text about the Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark. 

Geographical boundaries and characteristics

The Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark includes:

• The administrative boundaries of Kefalonia and Ithaca
• Atokos, Arkoudi, and the marine area around these islands, covering a total of 3,006 square kilometers.
• There are 40 geosites in Kefalonia and 10 in Ithaca, and 11 geo-routes have been designated, of which 2 are marine.

Popular Geosites

Among the most popular geosites are:

• Drogarati Cave and the Sami Speleological Park.
• The Katavothres of Argostoli.
• Lake Karavomylos in Sami.
• The Myrtos area.

Visitors are invited to explore these geosites and thus understand the geological history and natural phenomena that shaped the area. What we want to show in any case, as Mr. Xanthakis explains to us, is that we do not visit a geosite just to enjoy it, but to talk about geology and how this place was formed. For example, during a visit to Myrtos beach, beyond swimming in the sea, we have the opportunity to learn how Myrtos bay with its exceptional beauty was formed.

Exhibitions and visits

The geopark has two headquarters:

• In Argostoli, at the Koutavos Environmental Information Center
• In Ithaca, at the Anogi Cultural Center.

In these centers, there are fossil exhibits and digital screens with animations and documentaries that showcase topics from the geopark and geosites, and more broadly from the network of European and global geoparks. The exhibitions are open daily in Argostoli and in Ithaca by arrangement.

The fossil exhibits display findings from organisms that lived in earlier geological periods. These exhibitions offer a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the rich geological and natural history of the area.

Information activities and signs in Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark

For better visitor information regarding the Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark, approximately 40 information signs have been placed on both islands, which are located:

• At the entrances to the islands, immediately informing visitors that they are in an area protected by UNESCO.
• In major cities, such as Sami and Argostoli, providing information on the cultural and geological significance of the geopark.
• In most of the geosites designated in the two areas, aiming to highlight their unique geological heritage.

Thematic events and sustainable development

The geopark organizes many thematic events throughout the year, where we promote the importance of geosites and sustainable development to visitors and citizens with the aim of:

• Raising awareness among visitors and citizens about environmental issues.
• Promoting sustainable development in the local community through educational activities and public presentations.

International participation and collaboration

In parallel, the geopark is an active member of:

• The European Geopark Network.
• The Global Geopark Network.

Across Europe and globally, through these networks, the Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark participates in international conferences, exchanging knowledge and experiences with other protected areas worldwide. These activities enhance the visibility of the geopark and promote collaboration on a global scale.

In this way, the geopark not only protects the natural and geological heritage of Kefalonia and Ithaca but also showcases it as a model of sustainability and cultural value.

Every four years, the geopark is evaluated by UNESCO for its continued inclusion in the global geoparks network. The next evaluation will take place in 2025.

In Greece, six sites of outstanding beauty and geological variability have already joined the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network: Lesvos Geopark, Psiloritis Natural Park, Chelmos-Vouraikos Geopark, Vikos-Aoos Geopark, Grevena-Kozani "Tethys" and Sitia Natural Park. The Geopark should enable the local population to re-evaluate its heritage and encourage its active role in the economic regeneration of its area through certain actions that promote ecotourism, education, and other nature-friendly activities. Local communities in many parts of the world have realized that their geological, natural, and cultural heritage can provide a source of sustainable economic benefit for their region. Instead of exploiting this heritage in the non-renewable ways of the past, there is an opportunity to manage it in a way that preserves it for the future through the development of geotourism.

Visitor attitude

Visitors to the Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark express great enthusiasm for what they learn about the geological history of the area, as we know that geology shapes the landscape. Indeed, the case of Kefalonia is special, as due to its geological activity and frequent earthquakes, it is a real "seismological laboratory". Earthquakes have contributed significantly to the geomorphology of the island, and their study reveals unique information about the geological evolution of the area. It is worth mentioning that, as Mr. Xanthakis explains to us, visitors are particularly interested in and enjoy experiential activities.

Environmental education and collaboration with schools

Also, the geopark places particular emphasis on environmental education:

• School visits: Many schools visit the geosites.
• Activities outside the geopark: The geopark team visits schools and conducts both experiments and presentations on the island's geological history, enhancing students' knowledge of geology and the environment.

Collaboration through culture and art

The geopark has developed strong partnerships with many organizations, such as the Ionian Center for Arts and Culture, with whom it collaborates and has an excellent working relationship regarding the promotion of geosites through culture and art. Through cultural activities, the geopark manages to connect geology with creative expression, enhancing visitors' experience and the involvement of the local community.

Overall, the Kefalonia and Ithaca Geopark combines the protection of the natural environment with education, culture, and international cooperation. Through its actions, it offers unique experiences to visitors and contributes to the promotion of sustainable development, making the area a top destination of geological and cultural interest.

Conclusion

Kefalonia and Ithaca constitute a place where nature, culture, and tourism coexist harmoniously, creating a unique example of sustainable development. The protection and promotion of natural and cultural wealth, combined with international recognition by UNESCO, guarantee a better future for local communities, while inspiring visitors to return and share their experience. Guided by geology, history, and authentic hospitality, the region continues to evolve as a high-value destination, ensuring the prosperity of the local community and future generations.

*The photos used and some information are from the official website of the Geopark https://kefaloniageopark.gr/.