UNESCO Global Geoparks of Greece & Cyprus Convene in Psiloritis for a Three-Day Forum on Sustainability and Heritage

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From 11 to 13 June 2026, the 6th Conference of Geoparks of Greece & Cyprus was successfully held, with the Psiloritis UNESCO Global Geopark hosting this year’s edition and becoming a meeting point for representatives, partners and residents from across the 11 UNESCO Global Geoparks of Greece and Cyprus. With 120 registrations and more than 150 attendees at the opening ceremony, the conference confirmed both the dynamism of the network and the growing importance of Geoparks as drivers of sustainable regional development.

Over two intensive days, the conference showcased the scientific depth and diversity of the Geoparks community. A total of 61 short presentations were delivered across five thematic areas and seven sessions, complemented by five keynote lectures from distinguished experts. The program also included four awards presented by the Hellenic Geoparks Forum as part of the international competition marking the 20th anniversary of the Global Geoparks Network, as well as three honorary distinctions from the Psiloritis Geopark to individuals who have consistently supported its mission over the years.

The Municipality of Sitia was represented by the Deputy Mayor for the Geopark and Sports, Mr. Lymperiou. The Sitia UNESCO Global Geopark had a strong and active presence in all thematic sessions, contributing with presentations on the Local Quality Agreement and the role of the local community in sustainable development, the caves of the Sitia Geopark, geoheritage and education for sustainability through the Summer Schools, the development of a Geothics Awareness Scale applied to nine Greek UNESCO Global Geoparks, the management and promotion of paleontological resources, the impacts of climate change and mitigation initiatives in the primary sector through the Life AgrOassis program, the dynamics of geotourism and alternative activities, and the educational programs implemented within the Geopark. These contributions highlighted the multidimensional character of Sitia’s Geopark and its commitment to linking science, culture and local development.

The third day of the conference was dedicated to field excursions, offering participants two distinct thematic routes within the Psiloritis Geopark. The first focused on “Geodiversity and Sustainability on Mount Ida,” with visits to tectonic and geomorphological sites and areas illustrating the long-standing interaction between people, landscape and natural resources in the pastoral zones of Psiloritis. The second route, “The People of Psiloritis: Past and Present,” explored cultural landmarks, traditional craft workshops and sites that reflect the deep connection between history, landscape and contemporary creativity in the region.

The conference was co-organized by the Hellenic UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, the Municipality of Anogeia, AKOMM–Psiloritis Development Agency, the Natural History Museum of Crete and the UNESCO Chair of the University of the Aegean, with the support of the Youth and Lifelong Learning Foundation (INEDIVIM). It was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism and the National Commissions for UNESCO of Greece and Cyprus, underscoring its institutional significance and international recognition.

Through scientific presentations, discussions and the exchange of best practices, the conference highlighted the essential role of Geoparks in promoting sustainable development in rural and mountainous regions. Geoheritage, environmental education, collaboration with local communities and the promotion of cultural identity emerged as key pillars of a holistic approach that connects scientific knowledge with everyday life and development with respect for the landscape.

The 6th Conference of Geoparks of Greece & Cyprus was not simply an academic gathering. It was a clear demonstration that Geoparks function as living laboratories of knowledge, cooperation and innovation. And Psiloritis, with its geological richness, cultural depth and human presence, once again proved why it stands at the heart of this shared effort.