Petrified Forest of Lesvos: A Window to the Miocene Epoch

Explore a fossilized forest ecosystem on Lesvos Island, where volcanic activity created a 20-million-year-old natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Petrified Forest of Lesvos

The Petrified Forest of Lesvos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique geological park showcasing fossilized trees from a subtropical forest that thrived approximately 20 million years ago. Volcanic activity preserved this ancient ecosystem, offering visitors a glimpse into the Miocene epoch.

A brief summary to Petrified Forest of Lesvos

Απολιθωμένο Δάσος Λέσβου, Sigri, 811 05, GR
+302251047033
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Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the parks involves walking on uneven terrain.
Visit during the spring or autumn for milder weather conditions.
Carry water and wear a hat, especially during the summer months.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the forest's history and geology.
Check the opening hours of the Natural History Museum and the parks before your visit.

Getting There

Bus

From Mytilene, the capital of Lesvos, a KTEL bus departs once daily to Sigri. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and costs between €8 and €12. From the Sigri bus stop, the Petrified Forest is a short walk away.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Mytilene to Sigri, with an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost ranges from €70 to €90. Taxis can also be booked from Sigri.
Car

Driving from Mytilene to Sigri takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the provincial road Mytilene-Kalloni and then the road Kalloni-Sigri. Parking is available at the Petrified Forest Park. Car rentals are available at Mytilene Airport.

Discover more about Petrified Forest of Lesvos

The Petrified Forest of Lesvos, located on the western part of the island near Sigri, is a remarkable natural monument, one of the largest petrified forests in the world. This unique geological site features fossilized remains of a subtropical forest that flourished during the Miocene Epoch, approximately 18.5 to 20 million years ago. The forest's creation is attributed to intense volcanic activity, where eruptions covered the area in ash and lava, leading to the petrification of the trees. Covering a vast area of 15,000 hectares, the Petrified Forest contains an impressive collection of fossilized trees, with some trunks reaching up to 20 meters in length and 3 meters in diameter. The petrification process occurred molecule by molecule, preserving not only the trunks but also the roots, fruits, leaves, and seeds of these ancient trees. The forest is home to more than 46 different species of fossilized plants, offering valuable insights into the region's ancient flora. Visitors can explore several parks within the Petrified Forest, including Sigri Park and Plaka Park. Plaka Park features the largest petrified tree trunk, with a circumference of 13.7 meters. The Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest in Sigri serves as a center for research, conservation, and public education about the forest. The museum exhibits a diverse collection of fossils and provides information about the geological history of the area.

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