Zagori, Greece

EcoMuseum Zagori was founded in 2014 as a social cooperative enterprise to manage the protection and valorisation of the natural and cultural heritage of the area to the benefit of local sustainable development. Its central principle is that an area’s monuments should remain in situ as a living testament to a specific era. Here visitors learn about various aspects of social life, production processes and the socio-economic and natural history of the region. At the same time, they are given the opportunity to interpret the spiritual, social and economic evolution of the local population which is directly connected to the natural environment and its effect on the definition of its identity. EcoMuseum Zagori has the role of an educational and local development hub, serving as a reference point between visitors, the local community and local governance actors. We offer soundwalks in nature, guided tours at transhumance routes, tours at the stone bridges and villages of the area, trail trekking and educational programs for schools. Our activities are designed to give full experience of the place and to transmit its unique power and knowledge.

The main pilars of the Ecomuseum’s focus is the sustainability and the participatory biodiversity conservation of the protected areas and the equal accessibility to cultural and natural heritage. EcoMuseum Zagori has implemented the EU funded participatory biodiversity conservation project EchoLoci, for the preservation and valorization of pastoral routes. We raise awareness on the importance of accessibility in natural sites, through our project Listen-Touch-Feelm an educational solution designed for visually impaired people, that promotes an inclusive landscape approach by applying innovative tools, towards an inclusive interpretation of the natural and cultural heritage of Vikos-Aoos Georpark.

This makes us unique
The Zagori region, nestled in the Pindus Mountain range, is a border mountainous territory in Northwestern Greece. It has an area of approximately 1,000 sqkm and contains 46 villages known as Zagori villages. In terms of natural heritage, Zagori hosts two National Parks, the river Aoos and the Vikos - Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark around the Vikos Gorge that contribute to the region's ecological diversity, providing a sanctuary for a myriad of flora and fauna. The unique and authentic area is characterised by traditional stone architecture, slate-roofed houses and cobbled streets. The numerous 18th-century stone bridges further accentuate the region's commitment to preserving its cultural and architectural legacy.

The diverse natural environment of Zagori is exemplified by lush landscapes and dense forests, with numerous outdoor opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, rafting.

Complementing its natural endowments, Zagori boasts a cultural heritage of immense depth, reflecting historical significance and the traditions of its inhabitants. Its rich cultural heritage contributes to the region's distinct identity and includes traditional music, gastronomic landscape, hospitality of people, folklore celebrations and artifacts.

In essence, Zagori's natural and cultural heritage converge to create a unique destination where the preservation of the environment harmonises with a profound respect for historical and cultural continuity. This synthesis contributes to the region's allure, offering visitors a multifaceted experience that celebrates both the pristine beauty of nature and the rich tapestry of human history and tradition.