24°C
CRETAquarium – Thalassocosmos, in Heraklion, Crete, is one of the most modern aquariums in Europe and a unique center for marine experience and education. Visitors are guided through 61 aquariums with a total capacity of 1,800,000 liters, housing more than 2,000 marine species from 200 Mediterranean species, in staged seascapes that accurately represent the ecosystems of the Cretan and Mediterranean seabed.
The tour of the aquarium is thematically organized into sections based on ecosystems: from the dark and deep caves with snappers and corals, to the open sea with sharks and pelagic fish, to the coastal zones with scorpion fish and anemones, to the tropical species and the “lechepsian migrants” from the Red Sea. In special shallow tanks, visitors can observe marine species up close and understand the construction techniques of the aquariums.
CRETAquarium’s museological approach is based on scientific validity, modern presentation and educational experience. It is supported by the Hellenic Center for Marine Research and combines information, entertainment and reflection on the marine environment. Educational programs, care of injured animals, awareness raising activities and continuous enrichment of the collection complete the aquarium’s activities.
CRETAquarium offers the visitor the opportunity not only to “see” the sea, but also to feel it, to learn about it and to respect it, an alternative destination that combines knowledge and entertainment in a totally experiential way.
*The photos are sourced from the official website of the museum.
Aquarium
Science, Historical
Former American Base of Gournes, Heraklion
+30 2810337788
1 November – 31 March
All days: 09.30-16:00
1 April – 31 October
All days: 09.30-19:00
The Rural Greece is an online portal that connects travellers with unique destinations and local businesses in the countryside, offering authentic experiences through activities that highlight nature, traditions and culture.
For the Rural Greece accessibility is fundamental to enhancing an inclusive tourism experience. Following the principles of inclusion and equality, the epaithros Rural Tourism Network and its member businesses are constantly working to enhance the tourism services provided, ensuring that all visitors have the opportunity to experience the authentic beauty of the Greek countryside.
Sustainability in tourism refers to a way of developing tourism that respects and protects the environment while strengthening the local economy and preserving cultural traditions. The aim of sustainable tourism is to provide unique and authentic experiences for visitors without harming the natural and social environment, while ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism activity.
This type of tourism is based on three pillars:
With sustainable tourism, visitors can have authentic experiences, knowing that the impact of tourism on the region is positive and lasting for future generations.
For Rural Greece, localism is one of the most important factors for the development of sustainable tourism, as it promotes a strong link between the tourism product and the local society, economy and culture. Through localism, visitors get the opportunity to explore authentic elements of the destination, such as local products, traditions and culture. This not only boosts the local economy, but also helps to sustain and strengthen local businesses, creating new jobs and supporting the development of local communities.
Furthermore, localism contributes to the sustainability of the tourism sector, as it reduces the use of resources from other regions and encourages the use of local goods and services, reducing the ecological footprint of tourism activities. Thus, integrating localism into tourism practices enhances sustainability awareness, both among visitors and local businesses, creating a more responsible and sustainable tourism destination.
