KEFALONIA & ITHACA UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK

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What is a Geopark ?

A Geopark is an area with a special geological heritage of international importance and a sustainable territorial development strategy. It should have clearly defined boundaries and enough space to allow for real territorial economic development, mainly through tourism. The geological sites should be of international importance in terms of their scientific quality, rarity, aesthetics and educational value. All these sites must be related not only to geology, but also to archaeology, ecology, biodiversity, history and culture. Geoparks draw on this heritage to understand and address key issues facing society in the context of the dynamic planet we live on (a planet that is subject to change). Important places/sites within a Geopark must be protected, where appropriate, in accordance with local, regional or national legislation. Geoparks as a concept combine conservation with sustainable development and the involvement of local communities. As a result of these advantages, in recent years an increasing number of UNESCO Member States have moved to develop National and Global Geoparks.

Kefalonia & Ithaca UNESCO Global Geopark

Since its establishment in 2016, the Kefalonia - Ithaca Geopark, guided by the particularly important geodiversity and biodiversity of the two islands and their rich cultural heritage, has set itself the goal of joining the European Geoparks Network and the Global Geoparks Network. In fact, since November 17 in 2015, when the General Assembly of UNESCO in Paris unanimously accepted the creation of a new program, the "International Geosciences and Geoparks Program", the Geoparks belonging to the Global Geoparks Network can be nominated as "UNESCO Global Geoparks". Recently, the Geopark of Kefalonia – Ithaca was successfully recognized as a "UNESCO Global Geopark" and bear the UNESCO logo. With its inclusion in the geoparks’ networks, automatically the inclusion of the Geopark in the Hellenic Geoparks Forum was activated.

Kefalonia & Ithaca Geopark documentary with English subtitles.

Geology

250 million years ago, at the end of the Paleozoic era, the continental surface of the earth was a single supercontinent, Pangea, which was surrounded by the superocean system basins of Panthalassa. This was followed by the breakage of Pangea into tectonic plates that sometimes move away and sometimes collide in order to form the continents in their current form. From the initial breakage of the Pangea 200 million years ago, the ocean of Tethys was formed. Kefalonia and Ithaca Islands consist the westernmost part of External Hellenides (remnant of the Tethys Ocean). They are located very close to the Greek arc, which is the most tectonically active region in Europe. Due to their geotectonic position, the islands present rich geology and great seismic activity, on which we find an excellent depiction of the dynamics of terrestrial processes, through the numerous and wide variety of geological features. Two geotectonic zones (alpine formations) bordered by a major thrust, can be found. They are mainly represented by carbonates (limestones and marly limestones, dolomites) οf Jurassic to Miocene age and Triassic evaporates. Plioquaternary post alpine sediments can also be found lying uncomfortably on the alpine formations. Many of the formations are fossiliferous. Apparently, most of the geopark ‘s surface is covered by limestone. This fact in combination with the tectonic activity, the climatic conditions and the processes of erosion and deposition results in the appearance of numerous underground and surface karstic geomorphs such as caves, valleys, sinkholes, bays, forms of surface erosion etc. Therefore, such processes form a rich karstic system mainly in the area of Sami but also all over the carbonate rocks on both islands, but to a lesser extent. Of particular interest is the fact that part of the karstic network is located below sea level, causing global interest not only due to the rich speleothems such as stalactites and stalagmites, but also for its extent. This peculiarity is caused by submersion due to intense tectonism but also due to the sea level rise caused by the melting of the last glaciers resulting in the flooding of many of Kefalonia caves.

Geological map of Kefalonia and Ithaca Islands.

Physical environment

Kefalonia includes four main peninsulas (Paliki, Erisos, Livatho and Atro). The mean altitude of the islands is 358.5m. Approximately 37.5% is occupied by mountains, 42.5% is semi-mountainous area and 20% is the flat region. The main lowland areas are Livatho and Omaloi. The total coastline length of the island is 270.4 km and forms many gulfs and bays such as Mirtos, Argostoli and Sami. The terrain of Ithaca is mostly mountainous consisting of several small mountains such as Anogi (808 m), Niritos (806 m) and Merovigli (669 m). The total coastline length is 101 km and around the island several picturesque bays are formed. Moreover, numerous underground and surface karstic geomorphs such as caves and sinkholes form a rich karstic system mainly in the area of Sami. The climate of the geopark ‘s area is mild temperate (8.5-29.4 ̊C) with mean annual precipitation 820mm. The climatic conditions promote the occurrence of a rich natural environment which contains several species of plants and animals that together with the geological and cultural elements compose the spectacular character of the area.

Georoutes

The islands of Kefalonia and Ithaca, apart from their rich archaeological and cultural history and biodiversity richness which led to the proclamation of mount Ainos as a National Park, are also important for geology, representing an active geological laboratory, which is located in the most active tectonic region of Europe. The geological formations, the large number of faults several of which are active, and consequently the great seismicity, caves and karst formations, Ainos and the remarkable marine environment create a geological "mosaic" pattern which renders the islands suitable with all the necessary specifications to become a Geopark, within which dozens of geosites and several geotrails could be defined. In this way a unique Geopark in the European Area will be created which will include an important marine area, with a defined marine geo-route to connect the two islands or more precisely connect the geosites and the geo-routes of the two islands. The aim of the marine georoute is to attract a high level of tourism using pleasure boats to reach coastal geosites from the sea.

Georoute Koutavos-Ag. Thomas-Arginia-Avithos-Poros-Skala (purple line) . The georoute starts from Geosite Koutavos Lagoon , an important wetland of the island, where the Information and Training Center of the Geopark is located. We can also visit a Mycenaean cemetery at the neighboring village Lakithra. At the Crossroad, immediately after the cemetery, by making a detour, we can either head SW to Geosite Ai Helis - a paleontological site rich in Pectinidae - or head east and visit the Byzantine Museum and Monastery of St. Andrew dated back to the 13th century, as well as the Castle of Agios Georgios and the church of Evaggelistria in the homonymous village (Kastro). Alternatively, we may continue following the georoute towards Geosite Klimatsias close to the village of Spartia, where we can observe coastal erosion geomorphs. The georoute continues to the east, passing through the gorge of Poros, Limenia ending to Skala settlement .

Georoute Ainos (light yellow line). The georoute starts from Geosite Koutavos Lagoon , which is an important wetland of the island and where the Information and Training Center of the Geopark is located. We head to the Castle of Agios Georgios and the church of Evaggelistria; here we can make a detour to visit the Byzantine Museum and the Holy Monastery of Agios Andreas. After that, we proceed towards the Geosite polje of Valsamata, located near the homonymus village, following the road towards the village of Troiannata. The Polje is also the location of the Holy Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, the patron Saint of Kefalonia, where his corpse and his hermitage can be visited. We continue the georoute heading towards Mount Ainos, after making a detour to Mount Roudi in order to visit Roudi Doline Geosite. On Mount Ainos, we have the opportunity to visit Geosite Rudists which is a paleontological site rich in fossils. A few meters further as we climb on the mountain, we find another Geosite with the karstic geomorphs of Ainos in limestone rocks which form the mountain itself. Lastly, we reach Geosite View position of Ainos, located just before the mountain top and from where we can observe the Plio - Quaternary formations which cover the southern part of the island.

Georoute Sami (red line). The Georoute in the area of Sami can be either an extension of Aenos Georoute or can stand by itself as a hiking route starting at the Watermills of Sami. This path starts just before the crossroad for the village of Chaliotata, where we take a turn towards Geosite Drogarati cave extremely rich in speleothems, which is perhaps the most important cave of the island. After that, we head to the village of Poulata where Geosite Aggalaki cave is located, an equally important and impressive cavern rich in stalactites and stalagmites. We continue our path with a visit to Geosite Agia Eleousa cave, a cavern which is also decorated with wonderful stalactites and stalagmites. At a distance of about 300m it is located Geosite Agioi Theodoroi cave, with a beautiful cavern and a blue-green lake. We continue our georoute by reaching the wider area of Poulata to visit two very interesting caves which communicate with each other through an underground siphon, the Geosite of Chiridoni - Sotiras caves. Then, we head to the area of Karavomilos, where we can initially visit Geosite Zervati Cave, a relatively small, but equally beautiful cave that contains two small lakes.

Georoute Koutavos-Davgata (orange line). The georoute starts from Geosite Koutavos Lagoo n, which is an important wetland of the island and where it is located the Information and Training Center of the Geopark. The route ends at settlement of Davgata .

Georoute Paliki Peninsula (blue line). The georoute of Paliki peninsula starts from the city of Lixouri , which is the second largest city of the island. There, we can visit Iakovateios Library which includes thousands of book titles dating from the early 16th century until today, as well as a collection of objects from that period. We can also visit Petritseios Library, Lixouri public library, with more than 1,400 volumes of old and rare books and a collection of old costumes. After that, we head south to Geosite Michalitsata, where from a a view point appear geomorphological formations characteristic of the whole area. We continue our georoute by making a detour to reach Geosite Xi, where it is located the homonymous beach that consists of crimson sand and unlimited raw gray clay that can be used for a natural spa. After this detour, we continue towards Geosite Kounopetra, a residual form of coastal erosion causing the constant movement of a boulder of the local coastal formation (sandstones). Then we head northwest to Chavriata and shortly after the village, we make a detour to visit Geosite Gerogompos with a picturesque lighthouse, which consists of coastal karstic geomorphs creating a unique landscape. We continue the Georoute heading towards the village of Kaminarata in order to visit Geosite Kipouria, where we can observe coastal erosion forms as well as a spectacular tectonic uplift and faults. We also have the opportunity to visit the Holy Monastery of Kipouria which is located at the same area.

Georoute Sami-North Kefalonia (white line). The Sami - North Kefalonia georoute could also be an extension of Sami route with a starting point from the settlement of Karavomylo s or the settlement of Agia Ephimia, where we can visit the mosaic floor of a Roman villa. Then, we head to the village Makriotika, where we can visit the Olive Museum of Pylaros. In the exhibition area of the Olive Museum one can see millstones and other parts of the mechanism with which the oil was extracted and stored. In the neighboring village Potamianata we can visit the stone Windmill of Sokaris of the 19th century. We continue our route going either towards Assos or towards Myrtos beach to visit Geosite Myrtos, where we can admire the beach from above the hilltop as well as observe the damaged zone of the area of Charakas, which is connected with the main road by a bridge (after the earthquake of 2014). After this short stop, we continue towards Assos Geosite, which represents the unique outcrop of the Lower Cretaceous formation of the Pre-Apulian zone on the island of Kefalonia. In the settlement of Assos we can also visit the Fortress which is a typical example of fortification of the 16th -17th century. The route continues going to the northern part of the island; by making a detour we can visit Geosite Alaties which represents a typical coastal residual erosion geomorph in limestone rocks. Lastly, the georoute of Northern Kefalonia is completed with a visit to the settlement of Fiskardo, the most picturesque destination of the island, declared as a protected settlement after the earthquake of 1953. At Fiskardo, we can visit 3 Roman monuments: a Roman Cemetery, a Roman Mausoleum and a Roman bath. It is worth a visit also to the Maritime and Environmental Museum, where there is a complete record of the natural environment and the marine fauna of Kefalonia, archeological findings, and a collection of photos with the history of the area over the centuries. Finally, we should not miss the Venetian Fiskardo Lighthouse , built by the Venetian conquerors of the area in the 16th century as well as the Early Christian Basilica church of the 6th century AD.

Georoute of Ithaca (dark purple line). The georoute of Ithaca begins at the northern part of the island and specifically at Geosite Marmakas which consists of a beach and a wetland (the only one on the island), located close to the picturesque port of Frikes village. At this Geosite we observe the occurrence of three lithological sequences, i.e. three different formations of the Ionian zone: the "Pantocrator" limestones, Ammonitico Rosso and the limestones with cherts and marly shales with “Posidonia”.

Following the georoute and heading towards the south along the main road, we make a small detour to the west, towards Exogi village, to stop at Homer's School, an archaeological site with an ancient fortification tower of the Classical - Hellenistic period with signs of Mycenaean architecture. Then we continue to the village of Stavros where Stavros Archaeological Collection is found, which hosts finds from all the excavations conducted in northern Ithaca since the beginning of the 20th century. The objects exhibited date from the Early Greek to the Roman period. Most of them come from the excavations that took place at the Geosite of Loizos' Cave at Polis bay, that we can visit by making a detour. In this coastal cave remarkable finds dating from the Early Helladic to the Roman period have been discovered, among which a fragment with the inscription "WISH ODYCCEI". At Stavros village we can also visit the Tower of Tzanis, one of the few examples of houses built during the Venetian occupation with interesting architectural elements that has been declared a historical monument.

Sea Georoute Ithaca (Vathi-Sami, white line). The sea georoute of Ithaca starts from Vathi, the capital of the island, and proceeds towards Northeast to Geosite Sarakiniko passing in front of Dexa and Skinos bays, where we can admire their intense geomorphology due to eustatic movements of the sea during the last glacial periods. To reach Sarakiniko, we pass from Geosites Gidaki and Filiatro. By following this sea georoute we can see almost the whole lithological sequence of the Ionian zone that occurs on the island of Ithaca. Then we head towards Atokos island and sail around, in order to see the prominent relief, as well as the similarity of the lithological formations with those of Ithaca, the sequence of which appears reversed. Then we return to Ithaca and specifically to the northern part of the island where we first pass close to the second largest settlement of the island, the picturesque Kioni. We then head towards Geosite Marmakas, which is located outside the port of Frikes village. Except of the beach and the small coastal swamp, which is the only wetland on the island, in this Geosite we see the occurrence of three different rock formations of the Ionian zone: the limestones of "Pantocrator", the formation of Ammonitico Rosso and the limestones with cherts and clay shales. We proceed towards Geosite Afales where we have the opportunity to see the Paleocene-Eocene limestones as well as the flysch formation (alternations of sand and clay layers) of the Ionian zone. We continue the sea georoute heading towards Arkoudi islet, where at the major part occur the limestones of the "Pantocrator" and at the western part we can observe Triassic breccia. Finally, we head towards the island of Kefalonia and specifically to the port of Sami crossing the "Strait" of Ithaca along which we see at the same time the island of Ithaca and the northern part of the island of Kefalonia.

Sea Georoute Kefalonia (light green line). The sea georoute of the island of Kefalonia starts from the port of Argostoli . We head north around the gulf of Argostoli, passing by the Geosite Sinkholes of Argostoli (one of the most important geological phenomena of the island, in which the karst system of the Sinkholes is connected underground with the brackish springs of Sami, at Karavomylos) and the Lighthouse of Agioi Theodoroi. The georoute ends at Assos .

Hiking Georoute Argostoli (red dashed line). The hiking route starts from Geosite Koutavos Lagoon, which is an important wetland of the island and where it is located the Information and Training Center of the Geopark. Walking around the lagoon we have the opportunity to admire De Bosset’ s Bridge, a large stone bridge built by the Swiss Charles-Philip De Bosset in 1813.

Hiking Georoute Koutavos-Cave Grouspa-Ag. Varvara-Argostoli (brown dashed line). From Koutavos lagoon, we can make a small detour and visit the Museum of Radio, Wireless and Telecommunication Equipment where we can see telephone devices and call centers of old times. We continue on the georoute to the city center in order to visit the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, where we can admire exhibits from the Paleolithic to the Late Roman Period coming from excavations that have been conducted all over the island of Kefalonia. The Korgialeneio Historical and Folklore Museum is located nearby, where we can find objects from the everyday life of the residents of Kefalonia, such as furniture, tools, appliances, works of art, etc. The ground floor of the museum also hosts Korgialeneios Library which currently includes over 62,000 book volumes, as well as the Local Historical Archive of Kefalonia. Heading to the main square of Argostoli we can take a walk in the garden of Napier. Then, we head towards the Geosite Sinkholes of Argostoli, before which we can make a short stop in between to visit Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. Geosite Sinkholes of Argostoli is one of the most important geological phenomena of the island, in which the karst system of the Sinkholes is connected underground with the brackish springs of Sami, at Karavomilos.

Geosites

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The is made of stone; it is ornamented with intensely carved decorations and is located in the village of Ag.Thekli at the Paliki peninsula. Next to the spring is the Christian icon of Cosmas of Aetolia, marking the passage of the monk, who is believed to have preached his teachings at that site. This part of Paliki, where the spring is situated, it is mainly covered by Neogene formations (clay sediments) that were deposited unconformably over Mesozoic limestones of the Pre-Αpoulian Zone. The Keria spring is a contact spring between Neogene and Eocene limestones, and which during the past was considered as a mineral spring.

is located on the Paliki peninsula close to Lixuri, in a place with spectacular view. The old village dates before the 14th century BC and the villagers are proud of their hospitality and traditional festivities. In this village and in the surrounding villages Pliocene sediments prevail, mainly blue clay sediments strongly eroded, with a characteristic appearance that differs from the rest of the island. The geomorphological formations recognized in the area are the small ravines, the erosional valleys and the small streams created by mechanical and chemical weathering.

Τhe cosmopolitan beach Xi is located in the southern part of the Paliki peninsula. Τhe rust red sand, surrounded by cliffs of blue clay. Due to the clay composition of these blue sediments and their content in specific clay minerals, which seem to have beneficial properties, this beach presents particular interest for "mud therapy". The sandy beach is the spawning of famous Caretta caretta (sea turtle). The colors of the sunset, transform the beach of Xi into an unearthly landscape.

Kounopetra (moving rock) site is located in Paliki peninsula, south of the village Michalitsata. "Kounopetra" is a geological paradox describing the nonstop movement of a large sandstone rock, placed on the rocky coast. This perpetual motion is triggered by waves and the clay composition of the rocks at the bottom of the sea and the base of the rock that make it unstable. Its constant movement decreased after the 1953 earthquake.

is located at Paliki peninsula, close to the Havriata village. Because of the geotectonic history and the lithology of the area where Eocene limestones prevail, along the coastal zone multiple fracture zones have formed karstic erosion morphology as well as small coastal caves. Furthermore, near Gerogompos cape a 14 meters tall lighthouse stands still since 1907. The historical lighthouse was built by the British and years later was destroyed by the German troops as they left the island. In 1947 it was rebuilt and today it belongs to the Greek Navy.

Kipouria is located in the westernmost point of the Paliki peninsula. Over the high cliffs of Western Kefalonia stands the Holy Monastery of Kipouria. Parts of the monastery had to be rebuilt due to the high seismic activity that takes place to this active geological part of the Greek arc. The Greek arc was formed due to the collision of the African tectonic plate with the Eurasian plate.

Platia Ammos is one of the most impressive beaches of Paliki peninsula, and Kefalonia as well. It is located at the westernmost point of the peninsula at the NW end of the Greek arc which was created due to the collision of the African plate with the Eurasian plate. The wild landscape as well as the awesome high cliffs of Platia Ammos compose beautiful sunsets which impress every visitor.

The beach of Agia Eleni is a beautiful, quiet beach located at the western part of Paliki peninsula close to the village Damoulianata. The place is well known for its crystal-clear waters. The combination of Eocene limestones and white pebbles give the characteristic beauty to this location. Along the coastal zone remarkable geomorphs of karstic erosion have been formed during the eons.

is located in the northern part of Paliki peninsula, where Miocene sediments and in the wider area Eocene and Upper Cretaceous limestones prevail. Due to the lithology and tectonic regime of the area an impressive "rocky garden" has been formed, which consists of scattered large boulders that compose an impressive stony landscape. A giant rock in the water and the white sand Vouti beach combine, a paradise scenery occurs.

is located at the northern part of Paliki peninsula. Access to the beach is on foot but with considerable difficulty, as the road stops almost two kilometers from the beach. Alternatively, the visitors can reach the beach by boat. The area is characterized by the impressive cliffs of Upper Cretaceous limestones as well as of erosional karstic geomorphs. On the beach the landmark was an impressive erosional rocky arch, which sadly was destroyed during the 2014 earthquake.

Livadi lagoon is the most important wetland on the island of Kefalonia. The plain of Livadi is a typical coastal swamp, which is sheltered in the protected environment of the Gulf of Argostoli, and consists a refuge for several rare birds such as the heron and the alcyone, not to mention many species of amphibians and fishes.

The gorge of Agia Varvara is a relatively small gorge, however it is very interesting from geological, aesthetic and religious point of view. Ιn the cave located at the bottom of the gorge the church of Agia Varvara was built when, according to tradition, the locals discovered the icon of the Saint in a karstic cavity. The church of Agia Varvara is framed by two stone arched bridges.

Koutavos lagoon is one of the two important wetlands of Kefalonia, which hosts many species of aquatic and migratory birds, as well as remarkable species of fish. Koutavos lagoon is delimited by the De Bosset Bridge with a length of 750m, connecting the city of Argostoli with the neighboring area of Drapanos. In recent years the area forms a beautiful place for evening walks along the lagoon. Furthermore, Koutavos lagoon is developed on post Alpine formations of Quaternary (2.58-0.00 My) age.

One of the most astonishing geological phenomena which is unique for the Island of Kefalonia, is the hydrological karstic system, which connects the sinkholes of Argostoli with the brackish springs of Sami-Karavomilos, with an inflow speed up to 3 m / sec. They constitute an underground karstic system of conduits and cavities, which develop in the limestones of mount Aenos.

Piniatoro is located in Lassi area, close to the Lighthouse (Fanari) of Saint Theodore. Due to the erosional processes on the Late Cretaceous limestones, karstic geomorphs such as grooves, small pits and sea arches are formed, creating a distinctive landscape. The area is a perfect place for diving and fishing due to the rocky coasts, as well as hiking on a beautifully wild terrain, among the trees and next to the sea.

Ai Helis beach is located near the village of Svoronata in Livathos. Pliocene sediments predominate in the area, mainly blue marls which contain a rich malaco-fauna. Ai Helis is a rich fossiliferous site where a taphocoenosis of marine bivalve molluscs (Pectinidae) can be found.

Agios Thomas beach presents a special geological, paleontological, aesthetic and mythological interest. The sedimentological and palaeontological characteristics of this beach indicate marine terraces. This sudden change in the sea level also creates fossilized horizons, rich in Pectinidae (scallops), Ostreidae (oysters) and Echinoids. The beach of Agios Thomas is also an excellent place to observe a deltaic system. The venetian castle of Agios Georgios and the Mycenean tombs in Mazarakata also worth a visit.

The polje of Valsamata is the largest karst valley on the Kefalonia Island. It is located North of Mt. Aenos and on the southern slopes of Mt. Roudi, near to the village Omalon. It has been formed in the strongly karstified Cretaceous limestones of the Pre-Apulian zone. The total area of the polje reaches about 6.4 km2. Furthermore, the cultivation of the local Robola vine takes place in the whole area of Omalon. The valley is also the place of the Monastery of Saint Gerasimos, the most important religious monument of Kefalonia, which was founded by the Saint himself in 1560 and, today, his body is kept in a silver shrine.

The pre- Apoulian zone prevails on Kefalonia Island. During the Pliocene, the rock formations of the Ionian zone were thrusted over the pre-Apoulian zone. This event is the most important tectonic event of Kefalonia responsible for the formation of the current geomorphology of the island. The Ionian thrust can be observed alongside the road network from Sami to Poros, where “Pantokrator” limestones (Ionian zone) are thrusted over the Miocene marls of the pre-Apoulian zone.

The gorge of Poros is one of the most beautiful geomorphological phenomena of Kefalonia. It is a large gorge very close to the port of Poros with geological, biological and archaeological interest. In the area of the gorge several endemic plants are found. Moreover, the gorge is closely connected with local myths, whereas inside the gorge is a cave which had been in use from the Neolithic to the Historical times.

Going on foot in the area of Eleios-Pronnon, the visitor will find the impressive "waterfalls" of Gradou hidden in a beautiful environment. That place is a gorge that has been formed in Miocene limestones of the pre-Apoulian zone with several small waterfalls forming small lakes between Skala and Poros. The largest waterfall is about 18 m high.

Residual forms of erosion are located along the road network from Skala to Poros in the area of Eliou-Pronnon. These forms are remnant erosional geomorphs of Oligocene-Miocene brecciated limestones of the Pre-Apulian zone characterized as marine notches. These sea notches were formed due to sea level change, being indicators of this change, either due to eustatism or due to the tectonic uplift that followed their formation.

The beach of “Klimatsia” is located at the southern part of Kefalonia near the village of Spartia in the area of Livathos, which is believed to have taken its name from the loud noise made by the waves as they crash on its impressive rock formations. The beach is dominated by Pliocene sediments such as sandy limestones, which are rich in fossil Echinoids and Pectinidae (bivalves), as well as thick blue clay sediments. These blue sediments are characterized by intense erosion forms which are created due to the mechanical and chemical processes of water.

South of Razata village, just before the Cyclops Walls, we find the Grouspa cave. It is a relatively small but rich in speleothems cave which is inhabited by a population of bats. The dimension of the steep entrance of Grouspa cave is about 10x10 m and forms an almost circular opening. The cave consists of two chambers that communicate with each other through a small opening. The first chamber consists a doline. In the second inner chamber, rich and very beautiful speleothems can be observed consisting of stalactites, stalagmites, gours and curtains with a variety of colors.

The cenote of Melissani is one of the most important caves in Greece as it presents special geological, biological, archaeological, aesthetic and mythological interest. It constitutes part of the wider karstic network of Sami area. It is a submerged doline with a lake 20 m below the ground surface, with dimensions 60x40 m and depth ranging from 10 to 35m. The lake continues for 240 m more as a submerged siphon.

Karavomilos spring constitutes a submarine brackish karstic spring of great water supply, located 80 m from the coast and isolated with a wall from the sea, forming an artificial lake. It presents great geological and biological interest and it constitutes one of the most important springs of the wider karstic network of the area of Sami which is connected through an underground karstic system with the sinkholes of Argostoli.

Zervati cave, is a doline which constitutes part of the wider karstic network of the Sami area and in addition to its geological value, the cave presents particular ecological interest. The ceiling and the walls of the cave are characterized by the presence of many stalactites. Due to the collapse of the roof a debris dome has been created and which is located in the center of the open part of the doline. On either side of the debris dome there are two lakes of brackish water.

The doline of Aggalaki is surrounded by a low stone wall with a railing. It starts as a pothole with a large opening and a diameter of about 20 m. The opening of the doline comes from the collapse of the roof creating a cone of scree. From the one side we find a large chamber with speleothems where in its lower part ends up in a lake of about 5 m wide. The cave has a second elongated chamber with rich speleothems, mainly stalactites and stalagmites, while at the end of the cave a second small lake is found. A large colony of bats populates this cave.

The doline is located in an area where several other caves are found. Once a single cavern existed, which over the centuries and due to geological changes, that have taken place in the area (earthquakes, rockfalls), resulted in its current form. After a 20 m pothole and the scree area, from the collapse of the ceiling which are partly covered with small trees, the visitor reaches the final lake which can also be seen from above. The lush vegetation, gives the impression of a tropical rainforest. The total length of the doline is 125 m.

Chiridoni cave can be reached from the road or by following the path that leads to Agia Eleousa doline. It is a vast collapsed doline in the southern part of which a siphon over 500 m long begins. It actually consists of two large chambers, more than 20 m long and it is fairly rich in speleothems. At the end of the second chamber, after a narrow passage through large collapsed blocks, the siphon comes across the scree cone of the cave of Sotira, with which it is connected.

Avithos Lake is one of the two natural lakes of Kefalonia which is located in the southeastern part of the island, near the village of Agios Nikolaos in the province of Poros. The name Avithos (greek word which means without a bottom) derives from the perception that this lake is so deep that no one could find its bottom. Lake Avithos is a karstic lake found in Upper Cretaceous limestones of the Pre-Apulian zone which has a depth of only 11m and which is connected underground with the wider karstic network of the area.

Myrtos bay is the most famous beach of Kefalonia and one of its main attractions. Apart from its special beauty, this region presents also special geological interest due to its particular geomorphological features and its intense active tectonism. The construction of a bridge built on the active fault zone of Charakas constitutes an achievement of engineering as it is constructed in such a way that it will be absolutely safe during an earthquake.

Assos is one of the most popular sites of Kefalonia and is located in the northern part of the island. Apart from its special beauty due to its picturesque scenery of the bay, it is the only area where a significant outcrop of the lithological formations of the Lower Cretaceous pre-Apulian zone occurs. Moreover, in Assos peninsula among the trees, stands a Venetian fortress (castle).

Alaties belongs to the area of Erisos and is located just before the cosmopolitan Fiskardo. Alaties as well as the whole area of northern Kefalonia consists of Upper Cretaceous limestones of the pre-Apulian zone. These lithological formations are characterized by intense forms of karstification (erosive forms) due to the wind and wave action and the intense tectonism that characterizes the whole area of northern Kefalonia.

Roudi is an extension of the mountain range of Ainos to the NW, and comprise the north part of the National Park of Ainos with a height of 1,125 m (peak Jupari). In this area, Upper Cretaceous limestones of the pre-Apulian zone prevail. On the eastern edge of Mount Roudi is a large doline at the bottom of which the cave of Agios Nikolaos of Grouspa is found. The forest of Roudi consists of Kefalonian fir and other evergreen trees.

Ainos Mountain consists predominantly of limestone of the Upper Cretaceous predominate and in the lower parts of its SW slopes, dolomites of the Lower Cretaceous are encountered. These limestones were deposited at the bottom of the ocean of Tethys and contain many and various fossils of marine organisms such as Foraminifera, and Gastropods. The most characteristic fossils of Ainos are the Rudists (bivalves) which are found in abundance in the Geosite of Rudists.

The mountain range of Ainos is located at the SE part of Kefalonia near Argostoli and Sami, and constitutes the main mountain of the island as well as the highest mountain of the Ionian Islands. Due to the lithological composition and the intense tectonism, various and caves (Nifi Cave and Petasi Cave) create an impressive rocky scenery.

The Ainos mountain range is the main mountain range of the island and the highest mountain of the Ionian Islands. Its highest peak is (1627 m, red triangle) which has a ridge length of 11 km. It is the result of a series of successive tectonic deformation episodes, mainly of compressive nature. From the view point of the mountain the intense geomorphology as well as a scenic view towards the southern part of Kefalonia can be observed.

The impressive “menirs” or monoliths of Anogi, constitute impressive isolated boulders of Upper Cretaceous (100.5-66.0My) limestones of the Ionian zone. These monoliths are one of the most important attractions of the island. They have been incorrectly considered as prehistoric megalithic monuments; however, their origin is purely geological and not anthropogenic (from rock or stone carving). Their striking shape formed by karstic erosion, however, attracted the interest of the locals who have given names to the boulders based on their shape. Thus, the largest and most impressive boulder has been named "Araklis" after the mythical hero (Hercules).

Along the Gulf of Molos in Ithaca (bays of Dexa, Skinos and Vathi) almost the entire series of the lithological sequence of the Ionian zone is developed. The intense geomorphology of the is mainly due to the eustatic movements that took place during the last 2.5 My, when successive alternations of glacial and interglacial periods appear. The result of these eustatic movements is the formation of the characteristic coastal landscape of Vathi, consisting of "fjord" type valleys.

The geosite is located west of the capital of Ithaca, Vathi, at an altitude of 190 m above the bay of Dexa. The Cave of the Nymphs is developed in white fine-grained U. Jurassic - L. Cretaceous limestones (163.5-100.5 My). The excavations at the Nymphs’ cave revealed archaeological findings dating from Hellenistic and Roman times.

Nymphs Cave The beach of Marmakas, located north of the port of Frikes village in Ithaca Island. This area is characterized as geosite because of the presence of three lithological sequences, three different formations of the Ionian zone. More specifically, the limestones of the U. Triassic (230-201 My) – M. Lias (190-183 My) "Pantocrator" formation, the U. Lias (182.7-174.1 My) Ammonitico Rosso formation and finally the Dogger (174.1-163.5My) limestones with cherts and shales are observed. Also, behind the beach there is a small coastal swamp which is the only wetland on the island.

Afales is the large gulf located in the northwestern part of Ithaca. At Afales beach lay a sequence of formations of geological interest. A large outcrop of the Paleocene - Eocene (66.0-33.9 My) limestones is in contact with the thick U. Cretaceous (100.5-66.0 My) limestones, as well as with the Oligocene - M. Miocene (33.9-11.63 My) flysch formation (alternation of sands and clay layers) of the Ionian zone.

The is located close to Perachori village, in the southeastern part of Ithaca and near to Anemodouri, where a path begins which leads to the cave. It is a relatively small but impressive doline with karstification forms developed in white thin-bedded U. Jurassic - L. Cretaceous (163.5-100.5 My) limestones. On the side of the ceiling there is a large opening from which bright light enters heavenly.

Across the beaches Gidaki, Filiatro and Sarakiniko, almost the entire sequences of the lithological formations of the Ionian zone that occur on the island of Ithaca are developed. Specifically, at Gidaki beach a very good exposure of U. Jurassic - L. Cretaceous (163.5-100.5 My) limestones is emerged from the sea likewise, the large and impressive anticline (fold).

Across the beaches Gidaki, Filiatro and Sarakiniko, almost the entire sequences of the lithological formations of the Ionian zone that occur on the island of Ithaca are represented. At the exposed sequence consists of U. Jurassic - L. Cretaceous (163.5-100.5 My) limestones, and also of the younger Senonian (U.Cretaceous (100.5-66 My) limestones.

Across the beaches Gidaki, Filiatro and Sarakiniko, almost the entire sequences of the lithological formations of the Ionian zone that occur on the island of Ithaca are represented. At the sequence of rocks, beginning from the oldest one, the U. Triassic (230-201 My) – M. Lias (190-183 My) "Pantocrator Limestone", is followed by the U. Lias (182.7-174.1 My) Ammonitico Rosso formation. Subsequently, limestones of Dogger age (174.1-163.5 My) are found. The sequence ends with the appearance of U. Jurassic - L. Cretaceous (163.5-100.5 My) limestones of the Vigla formation followed by brecciated limestones of L. Cretaceous age (100.5-66 My).

The coastal cave of Loizos is located on the Island of Ithaca and specifically in the bay of Polis near Stavros. The ceiling of the cave collapsed due to an earthquake in antiquity. The excavations by the British School of Archaeology at Athens in the 1930s have uncovered findings dating from the Bronze Age to Roman times. Those findings are fragments of bronze geometric tripods-cauldrons of the geometric period (9th-8th century BC) as well as a fragment of a terracotta mask of the 2nd century BC with an inscription mentioning the name of Odysseus.

3D Scene of Kefalonia-Ithaca Geopark

A web scene is symbolized geospatial content that allows you to visualize and analyze geographic information in an intuitive and interactive 3D environment. The following 3D scene is representing the surround environment of Kefalonia-Ithaca islands consists of Digital Elevation model, contours, location of dark sky park, schematic settlements boundaries, contours, view and recreation areas of Ainos Mt. The visualized layers can be turned on and off. In the following 3D interactive map you can see the geosites and georoutes of Kefalonia-Ithaka Geopark interacting with the different elements in 3D surroundings. Because scenes are such great visualization tools, you can easily explore the scene turning existing layers on and off. You can also navigate in 3D by clicking the mouse button while dragging the scene in the direction you want to move it. Also Zoom in or Zoom out, Pan, initial view and Geolocation application are available.

3D Scene of Kefalonia-Ithaca Geopark

Contributors

Pavlos Krassakis , PhD (c) Geologist - GIS specialist

Michalis Xanthakis, Deputy Head at Management Unit of National Parks of Zakynthos, Ainos and Protected areas of Ionian islands

Georgios Drakatos, President of Advisory Board of Kefalonia-Ithaca UNESCO Global Geopark

Elena Zoumpouli, Geologist PhD of Kefalonia-Ithaca UNESCO Global Geopark

Panagiotis Minetos, Forest Manager of Management Unit of National Parks of Zakynthos, Ainos and Protected areas of Ionian islands

Pavlos Marinos Delladetsimas, Professor at Harokopio University of Athens

Issaak Parcharidis, Professor at Harokopio University of Athens

Contact

Koutavos Environmetal Center, P.O. 222, P.C. 28100, Argostoli, Cephalonia island, Tel. : +30 2671029258 Fax : +30 2671029258 Email: kefaloniageopark@aenosnationalpark.com

Anogi Cultural Centre P.C. 283 00, Anogi, Ithaca island, Email: kefaloniageopark@aenosnationalpark.com