Syros is renowned worldwide among geologists, mainly because its subduction / exhumation history is so well displayed. This realization has attracted countless Earth scientists to Syros since the 1960s, and people on the island have certainly noted these “odd tourists”, equipped with hammers and maps. But hardly any of the locals know what keeps attracting so many field geologists to their island. To this day, a general awareness of the outstanding significance of Syros – and the neighboring Cycladic islands – is lacking. Plenty of scientific research papers on Syros have appeared, but only scientists read these. Sadly, the plate tectonic spectacle evident in Syros remains obscure to most people! The Syros GeoPark Project aims to change this : The public shall get the opportunity to recognize some of the many geological features visible in Syros and find out how these formed. Interested visitors of the Syros GeoPark shall learn what dramatic history is hidden in the Cyclades. For Syros locals, becoming aware of how their island evolved is part of their cultural identification, their local root system and pride. As a result, ecological sensitivity will spread as well. Beyond such educational goals, the Syros GeoPark Project aims to form a basis for sustainable economic development by promoting geo-tourism. Opportunities for soft tourism shall be offered in a balanced program combining geological, archaeological, historical and ecological topics. Tourism groups are increasingly keen on discovery programs with an environmental and popular science touch, or on combining physical fitness with family fun. Most hikers prefer moderate weather conditions, they favour spring and fall months over the hot summer. Geo-tourism promises calmer, substantially extended seasons, beyond the brief tourist hype.
The Syros GeoPark Project
Mavrogonatos K
2025-01-01
Abstract
Syros is renowned worldwide among geologists, mainly because its subduction / exhumation history is so well displayed. This realization has attracted countless Earth scientists to Syros since the 1960s, and people on the island have certainly noted these “odd tourists”, equipped with hammers and maps. But hardly any of the locals know what keeps attracting so many field geologists to their island. To this day, a general awareness of the outstanding significance of Syros – and the neighboring Cycladic islands – is lacking. Plenty of scientific research papers on Syros have appeared, but only scientists read these. Sadly, the plate tectonic spectacle evident in Syros remains obscure to most people! The Syros GeoPark Project aims to change this : The public shall get the opportunity to recognize some of the many geological features visible in Syros and find out how these formed. Interested visitors of the Syros GeoPark shall learn what dramatic history is hidden in the Cyclades. For Syros locals, becoming aware of how their island evolved is part of their cultural identification, their local root system and pride. As a result, ecological sensitivity will spread as well. Beyond such educational goals, the Syros GeoPark Project aims to form a basis for sustainable economic development by promoting geo-tourism. Opportunities for soft tourism shall be offered in a balanced program combining geological, archaeological, historical and ecological topics. Tourism groups are increasingly keen on discovery programs with an environmental and popular science touch, or on combining physical fitness with family fun. Most hikers prefer moderate weather conditions, they favour spring and fall months over the hot summer. Geo-tourism promises calmer, substantially extended seasons, beyond the brief tourist hype.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
