Παγκόσμιο Γεωπάρκο UNESCO Ψηλορείτη

Welcome to the Top of Crete

The Psiloritis UNESCO Global Geopark is an outstanding geotourism destination that combines opportunities for both recreation and education. Here, visitors can enjoy outdoor sports, nature walks, the tastes and aromas of local cuisine, the discovery of history, and the experience of the real life of the Psiloritis people.

The Psiloritis Geopark was established in 2001 as an informal Nature Park by AKOMM – Psiloritis Development Agency, with the scientific support of the Natural History Museum of the University of Crete.

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Thanks to its remarkable geodiversity, stunning natural landscapes, and rich historical and cultural heritage, the Psiloritis Geopark was recognised from the very beginning as a site of international significance. Initially included in the European Geoparks Network, Δίκτυο των Παγκόσμιων Γεωπάρκωνit soon joined the Global Geoparks Network, which granted the region worldwide recognition.
Since its establishment, the Psiloritis Geopark, in collaboration with local municipalities and other stakeholders, has developed the necessary infrastructure to provide both visitors and residents with a high quality of life in an exemplary non-urban environment.

Today, the Psiloritis Geopark actively participates in global efforts to protect and highlight the environment, natural and cultural heritage, and promote sustainable local development through geotourism and other forms of alternative tourism.

On November 17, 2015, in Paris, the UNESCO General Conference unanimously approved the creation of the new “International Geosciences and Geoparks Program,” which officially established the designation ofUNESCO Global GeoparksSince then, the area has been recognised as the Psiloritis UNESCO Global Geopark.

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The People and the Culture of the Geopark

AKOMM – PSILORITIS DEVELOPMENT AGENCY S.A. OTA, in collaboration with the Psiloritis Municipal Network (Ideon Network), is continuing the initiative launched by AKOMM to promote and foster cooperation among all stakeholders in the Psiloritis Geopark area, which has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2015. This initiative concerns the Local Quality Label – Psiloritis Geopark Partner Label, which signifies the direct link and active collaboration between the Geopark and the various stakeholders of the local community.