- The Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency (OFYPEKA) approved a €10,000 grant to support the Speleological Club of Crete and the upcoming “STERNES 2026” international expedition.
- Mayor of Sfakia Ioannis Zervos personally intervened to secure funding and pledge direct municipal logistics for the two-week project running from August 29 to September 13.
- Over 40 international cave researchers from eight countries across Europe and the Americas are gathering in the White Mountains (Lefka Ori).
- Sfakia municipal crews will provide 4×4 transport runs, mountain supply lines, and provisions sourced directly from local merchants to sustain the high-altitude camp.
More than 40 cavers from eight countries will descend into the White Mountains of Crete this year as part of the international STERNES 2026 expedition, with the Municipality of Sfakia and the Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency (OFYPEKA) supporting the two-week exploration.
The expedition will take place from August 29 to September 13 in the Sternes area of the White Mountains, bringing together cavers from Europe and the Americas to continue research into one of Greece’s largest and deepest cave systems.
The cave extends for more than 10.5 kilometers and reaches a depth of 722 meters, making it the fourth-deepest and second-longest cave in Greece.
OFYPEKA’s board has approved a €10,000 grant to the Speleological Club of Crete and the STERNES 2026 expedition. The decision followed an intervention by Sfakia Mayor Ioannis Zervos, who has also pledged extensive logistical support from the municipality.
During the expedition, the Municipality of Sfakia will organize at least ten 4×4 transport operations to move people and equipment between Sfakia or Anopolis and the Sternes site.
The municipality will also help the expedition team obtain food and other essential supplies from local businesses.
Mayor Ioannis Zervos said the municipality would support the team throughout the expedition and described the initiative as an important opportunity for Sfakia to contribute to international scientific research.
He also highlighted the broader value of the exploration for the region, particularly research into underground water systems and the White Mountains ecosystem.