The Fossil Forest

Volcanic activity, in the wider Aegean region, has given the beautiful site of Limnos a unique natural monument covering three areas, about 45 acres in total, on the island. The visit and search for the findings takes time and patience as they extend between Roussopoli, Romano, Varos, Moudros and the Kontias, Tsimandria and Portianou areas.

The findings so far indicate the existence of a subtropical forest of palm trees, pine trees and sequoias dating from about 25 to 20 million years ago, with the oldest finding dating from 34 to 30 million years ago. The research identified individual logs and parts, as well as leaves, roots, fruits and other specimens of subtropical plants, protected in the context of the designation of the area as "Nature Protected Monument" in 2013, with some of the impressive findings being hosted in the former Moudros Town Hall.

During the maintenance and demonstration work of the fossil forest of Limnos, which is being conducted by the "Museum of Natural History of Lesbos’ Fossil Forest" in collaboration with the "Limnos Municipality" and the "Lesbos Forest Directorate", an extremely striking fossil log of a conifer tree, more than 8 meters long, was revealed in the village of Varos. It has preserved its characteristics perfectly, reminding the precious value of the island's fossil forest.