EU Climate Pact walks in Crete continue today in the UNESCO Global Geopark of Sitia, Kato Zakros Gorge. Tomorrow, activities will continue with youth climate discussions in Heraklion, culminating in Chania on Monday, November 25. These initiatives, organized by the Region of Crete and INZEB, aim to educate local youth on climate change. INZEB serves as the Pact’s coordination body in Greece.
Educational Activities
Between November 21–25, students aged 12–16 participate in:
- Two climate-focused walking tours at UNESCO Geosites.
- Two youth climate discussions in Heraklion and Chania.
Ambassadors’ Role
Greek Climate Pact Ambassadors will guide the events. Their mission includes fostering climate awareness and inspiring action within communities by sharing expertise and collaborating with European partners.
Highlight: Kato Zakros EU Climate Walk
Today, a climate-themed walk takes place in Kato Zakros Gorge, a UNESCO Global Geopark site. Under expert guidance, students will:
- Explore the gorge’s ecosystem.
- Learn about the importance of freshwater resources.
- Observe how climate change affects water availability and biodiversity.
The tour will emphasize protecting mountain ecosystems and conserving water resources. Afterwards, students will participate in a discussion titled “How Can We Protect Water Resources and Biodiversity in Kato Zakros Against Climate Change?” Through observation and dialogue, participants will develop a deeper understanding of local ecosystems and the need for climate action.
Event Facilitators
- Alice Korovesi, INZEB CEO and Climate Pact Coordinator in Greece
- Georgia Mouriadou, Production & Management Engineer, Climate Pact Team
- Isidoros Kampolis, Climate Pact Ambassador
- Ourania Konstantis, PhD, Climate Pact Ambassador
- Vaggelis Perakis, Coordinator, Sitia Geopark
Key Takeaways
- Youth education about local ecosystems, environmental challenges, and community engagement is emphasized.
- Collaboration among experts, students, and ambassadors fosters environmental stewardship.
- Activities designed to highlight the impact of climate change and promote the protection of natural resources.
Kato Zakros, the Gorge of the Dead
Kato Zakros is a serene fishing village situated 107 kilometres east of Agios Nikolaos and 40 kilometres southeast of Sitia. Nestled in a fertile plain surrounded by ancient olive groves, the village lies at the endpoint of the famous Gorge of the Dead. It serves as the coastal hub for the nearby, picturesque Ano Zakros, which is notable for its water springs and charming alleyways. Despite its arid climate, the region’s abundance of water has supported habitation since antiquity. Numerous archaeological sites in the area, including the Minoan palace of Kato Zakros, illustrate its historical significance.
South of Ano Zakros lies the captivating Gorge of Kato Zakros, also called the Gorge of the Dead, approximately 100 kilometres southeast of Agios Nikolaos. This gorge, forming part of the European trail E4, ends in the village of Kato Zakros. The gorge attracts many visitors each year due to its striking scenery, historical relevance, and ease of access. With improved trails and clear signage, travel guides have now bypassed portions once labelled challenging for a smoother hike.
The gorge features steep walls with impressive caves where Minoan-era tombs and valuable archaeological relics were discovered. These tomb findings lend the gorge its name, “Gorge of the Dead,” the caves are similarly referred to as the “Caves of the Dead.” About halfway through the gorge, a trail ascends to the northern hill of Kastellas, where remnants of a Minoan fortress have been unearthed.
The trek takes around two hours and leads to Kato Zakros, where hikers can enjoy a swim in the summer or a meal by the stunning village beach. For those wanting a shorter trek, another entrance lies midway along the road connecting Ano Zakros and Kato Zakros.