Kefalonia-Ithaca Geopark on Greek islands joins UNESCO World Geoparks Network

The National Parks Management Unit of Zakynthos, Ainos & Protected Areas of the Ionian Islands is pleased to announce that the Kefalonia-Ithaca Geopark has been an official member of the UNESCO World Geoparks Network since 13 April 2022.

Already 177 Geoparks from 46 countries have joined the UNESCO World Network, while the Kefalonia-Ithaca Geopark is the 7th from Greece, as they have been preceded by those of Lesvos in the North Aegean, Psiloritis, and Sitia in Crete, Helmos in the North. Peloponnese, Vikos-Aoos in Epirus and Grevena-Kozani in Macedonia.

The Geopark of Kefalonia-Ithaca is located in the Ionian Islands and includes the islands of Kefalonia, Ithaca, Atokos, and Arkoudi. Its geographical boundaries coincide with the boundaries of the Regional Units of Kefalonia and Ithaca, including the land and important sea part of the two islands, occupying a total area of ​​approximately 3,006 sq. km. 

Kefalonia and Ithaca are the westernmost part of the Greek Women Abroad. They are located at the end of the Greek arc, which is the most tectonically active region in Europe. Due to their geotectonic position, they are islands with rich geology and great seismic activity in which we find an excellent depiction of the dynamics of terrestrial processes, through the numerous and wide variety of geological occurrences.

The concept of Geopark refers to a geographical unit with clearly defined geographical boundaries, with particular geological, morphological, and environmental characteristics of global scientific and geo-touristic interest.

It aims to utilize the natural and cultural heritage as a tool for environmental education and sustainable local development. The inclusion in the Global Network of Geoparks of UNESCO is the highest opportunity for global promotion and exploitation of the region with respect to the geological history and the protection and promotion of biodiversity and geodiversity.

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Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: Mouagip