19°C
The Natural History Museum of Lassithi, housed in the premises of the Vidiani Monastery, has been a branch of the Natural History Museum of Crete since 2000 and operates as an institution for the interpretation and promotion of the natural environment of the wider area of the Dikti mountain range. The museum’s exhibition focuses on the local flora and fauna, with emphasis on endemic and rare species, as well as paleontological findings that document the natural history of the region.
Among the most important exhibits are reproductions of the Cretan wildcat (Felis silvestris cretensis), underground insects of the Lassithi plateau, as well as models of fossilized species such as the Cretan dwarf hippopotamus. The museum’s approach combines scientific validity with educational aims, making the site accessible to both specialists and the general public.
The operation of the museum within the historic monastery adds to the cultural value of the visit, combining scientific knowledge with the spiritual and historical context of the region.
Exhibition
Science, Nature
Holy Monastery of Vidiani, Lasithi Plateau, Lasithi
+30 2844022421
All days: 08.00-15.00
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.
