Sitia now has a unique opportunity to highlight its geological and biological rarity through the UNESCO Global Geopark, and at the same time to showcase its important history, centered on the Minoan Palace of Kato Zakros. To develop into a destination with identity and international value, with the “signature” of UNESCO.
This was the central message of the event that took place a few days ago in Chrysopigi, on the occasion of the completion of 10 years since the inclusion of the Municipality of Sitia in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.
The timing could not be more appropriate, as a few days ago the official announcement was made of the serial inscription of the six Minoan Palaces – Kato Zakros, Zominthos, Knossos, Mallia, Phaistos and Kydonia – on the UNESCO World Heritage List. A historic recognition for Crete, the result of a long-term and systematic effort by the archaeologists and scientists who prepared the nomination file.
This new distinction comes in addition to two other important UNESCO programs that have already been recognized in Crete: the two Global Geoparks (Sitia and Psiloritis) and the two Biosphere Reserve areas. Together, they reinforce the image of Crete as a region with a special value for its culture, nature and historical heritage.
