The Petrified Forest of Lesvos, located near the coastal village of Sigri about 90 kilometers west of Mytilene, stands as one of the most extraordinary natural landmarks in Greece. Approximately 18.5 million years ago, intense volcanic eruptions covered the area with lava and ash. As a result, a dense subtropical forest of giant trees became fossilized in its natural setting, preserved through a rare geological process. Today, this ancient wonder belongs to the Global UNESCO Geoparks Network and is a key feature of the Natura 2000 network.

To better understand the forest’s origins, visitors can start their journey at the Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest in Sigri. Here, they will find detailed exhibitions, interactive displays, and even an earthquake simulator. 

Moreover, the Petrified Forest includes several open-air parks, each offering a unique perspective. In the Sigri Park, guests can view large upright fossilized trees still rooted in their original soil. Some trunks stretch up to 7 meters high and nearly 3 meters in diameter. Meanwhile, in Plaka Park, the largest known standing fossil trunk reaches a circumference of 13.7 meters. 

In addition to land-based parks, Lesvos is home to the first marine fossil park in Greece. The Nissiopi Marine Park lies just offshore and can be reached by a short boat ride. Thanks to glass-bottom boats, visitors can observe fossilized trees submerged beneath the Aegean Sea. 

Furthermore, smaller parks like Bali Alonia, the first area made accessible to the public, and the recent finds at Skamioudi continue to expand the forest’s boundaries. Also, new discoveries in these zones continually add scientific value and visitor interest.

In conclusion, the Petrified Forest of Lesvos offers a fascinating blend of history, science, and nature. Through museums, land and sea tours, and ongoing discoveries, visitors gain insight into a prehistoric world.