The museum was founded by Vasileios Kotsiomitis, a local enthusiast with a passion for the natural sciences. His aim was to create a space that would educate visitors about the natural history of the region, with a focus on its unique geological formations, fossils, and biodiversity. Over the years, the museum has grown into one of the most important natural history institutions in the Peloponnese, attracting visitors from all over Greece and beyond. The museum is located near the famous archaeological site of Epidavros, and many visitors combine a trip to the ancient theater with a stop at the museum, providing a well-rounded experience and blending history and nature in one!
The museum’s collections are divided into sections, each dedicated to a different category of findings. The paleontology section features a remarkable collection of fossils, many of which were discovered in the Ligourio area. The region is rich in fossils from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, when it was covered by a shallow sea. Visitors can see fossils of ammonites, corals, and other marine creatures, as well as some land animals. The geology section showcases the diverse mineral formations found in the Argolida region. Samples of marble, quartz, limestone, and other minerals are on display, along with explanations of the geological processes that shaped them.
The museum also highlights the rich biodiversity of the Peloponnese. Exhibits on local plants, insects, birds, and mammals provide a comprehensive overview of the region’s ecosystems. The flora and fauna section emphasizes the importance of conservation and the need to protect the area’s unique natural heritage.
The museum is located around 23 kilometers from Stork Apartments in Vivari, a drive of around 25 minutes. The route to the museum passes through the countryside offering views of nature and making the journey enjoyable!
Fun Facts About The Natural History Museum
The museum is dedicated to educating the public and especially young visitors offering guided tours, interactive exhibits as well as a hands-on workshop that teaches children about the natural world in a fun and engaging way.
The Ligourio area was once part of a shallow sea during the Jurassic period, around 150 million years ago. Fossils of marine creatures from this era, such as ammonites and sea urchins, are some of the museum’s most popular exhibits.
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