25°C
In Ano Zakros, near the natural springs of the village, the Museum of Water and Hydropower, a thematic museum dedicated to man’s timeless relationship with water, has been operating since 2007. It is housed in three restored water mills – the Brilacaina, Rhodonovaggelis and Xopapa mills – which have been transformed into spaces open to visitors with the aim of highlighting the use of water as a driving force.
The visitor is taken on a tour of a rare set of industrial facilities from the 19th and 20th centuries, such as the mill, the old mill (fabrica) and the mills themselves. Through authentic objects, documents and reconstructions, the operation of the water mills, their architecture and their role in the local economy are presented. The site highlights the water mill as a “factory” of the pre-industrial period.
The exhibition is accompanied by information material highlighting the importance of water mobility and the need for rational water management today. The museum is harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape of Zakros and offers a unique experience where the natural element and the technical tradition coexist, presenting the local history with scientific accuracy and respect for the heritage of the place.
Museum
Science, Historical, Popular Culture, Natural Environment
Zarkos Sitia, Lassithi
June – September
Tuesday – Sunday: 11:30-18:00
Monday: Closed
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.
