As of Monday, April 27, the Nisyros Geopark, covering a total area of 481 square kilometers (185 square miles), has been officially inducted into the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.
The Nisyros Geopark encompasses the island of Nisyros itself, the islets of Pacheia, Pergousa, Strongyli, and Kandeleousa, as well as the surrounding submarine area, which is characterized by volcanic formations currently being studied by international scientific teams.
The official award ceremony for the “UNESCO Global Geopark” title took place at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, in the presence of Greece’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, George Koumoutsakos, and the Mayor of Nisyros, Christofis Koroneos, who formally accepted the certificate.
Nisyros becomes the tenth Geopark in Greece
“With the successful inclusion of Nisyros in this special UNESCO network, Greece today adds its tenth Geopark to this prestigious category, which highlights areas of exceptional natural beauty and unique geological features,” stated Ambassador Koumoutsakos.
Greece’s previously recognized UNESCO Global Geoparks include: Lesvos Island, Psiloritis, Vikos–Aoos National Park, Helmos–Vouraikos National Park, Sitia, Grevena–Kozani, Lavreotiki, Meteora–Pyli, and Kefalonia–Ithaca.
“Greece, the Dodecanese, and particularly Nisyros have every reason to feel pride and joy,” Koumoutsakos added. “At the same time, however, we must acknowledge the responsibility to protect and sustainably utilize this unique part of our homeland, now bearing the UNESCO seal.”
He further emphasized that with 10 recognized Geoparks, Greece ranks among the nations with the highest number of sites in the network, both in absolute terms and in proportion to its land area.
For his part, Mayor Christofis Koroneos stated, “Today is a historic milestone for Nisyros. Nisyros is no longer just a volcanic island in the Aegean; it is now a globally recognized UNESCO Global Geopark. This induction decisively strengthens the protection of our unique natural environment and opens new horizons for sustainable development and geotourism.”
Related: Greece’s Nisyros Island: A Moonscape Aegean Hideaway
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