By Eriola Bocaj
The next time you decide to visit the Island of Lesvos take a longer trip of about an hour and a half from the port of Mytilini, and visit one of the most interesting and beautiful villages in the western part, Sigri. Even though it’s not considered to be typical city for mass tourism, you will be amazed by the rare landscape architecture and historical relicts that have succeeded to remain in time. The latest trend in Sigri as in the whole island is a shift from mass tourism to more environmentally friendly and sustainable forms of tourism. It is a great village to visit where you can easily adapt to different forms of sustainable tourism, such as cultural, conference, religious, maritime, gastronomic, and nature tourism. These forms of tourism together with the great Mediterranean hospitality of local people may be even more economically viable or environmentally friendly or both. Not only local communities but also tourists can benefit from tourism, both economically and culturally by establishing new links between people and nature. Taking into consideration the unique natural and cultural resources of the city, one can be amazed by the beautiful sandy beaches in a long semi sheltered cove, nice restaurants with delicious fresh traditional food and the rare historical delights of nature, the petrified forests. It is one of the most important villages of the island, that was able to remain untouched and still virgin from the mass investments, urbanization and destructions of the natural environment so that it could still preserve its historical values and importance.On the way to Sigri, through one of the most interesting and varied landscape you could still notice some fossils of petrified trunks, which gives it the unique values of a rare natural museum in the whole island. Located on a picturesque hill on top of the village the new Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest functions as a Protected Natural Monument used to study, research, promote, preserve and conserve the uniqueness of the Petrified Forest of Lesvos.Its development is one of the goals of the whole community in Sigri. Be sure not to lose the chance to taste the great restaurants along the beaches, the nightlife with live music and the perfect Mediterranean climate. Don’t wait. Try the real meaning of relaxing and cultural holidays.
Σάββατο 10 Ιανουαρίου 2009
The Sigri Heritage - Churches, Castle and Monasteries
By Musbau A. Bello
The promise of a small village is usually with little experiences that vanish in days. Sigri Island, a village of about 300 inhabitants, is a unique adventure with more memorable and lasting experience to offer than most big tourist cities in the world. Is that an exaggeration?
The road that leads to Sigri opens up to pristine and most beautiful part of Lesvos Island in Greece. The village is unique for its petrified forest that has already attracts a museum and park, exotic natural beaches, locally produced food, locally owned and run restaurants, sea foods; all with relatively western infrastructures that guarantee comfort for a sizable number of tourists. While looking for other features that could help to explain the evolution of this rare landscape, my special interest in rich cultural and historical legacies was arrested by the churches, monasteries and castle in this area. Of particular reference are the church of Agia Triada and the Sigri castle with their unique and gorgeous features. These are monuments of centuries old architecture and art that testify to the country’s rich religious heritage, doggedness of faith and tradition. Interestingly, the church of Agia Triada was originally a mosque built late in the Turkish period of 1870 and converted after the treaty of Lausanne in 1923. Evidently, there is an old hamman (Turkish bath), with water reservoir that fed it, which has remained unused since the Turks left the region. Out of my curiosity and admiration, I did ask one of the locals of the possibility of reopening this bath. He made it known to me that there are plans in place as interest from both within and outside the village particularly the tourist is growing every year. What a great icing on the cake that would be if plans are accomplished. There is no end to ingenuity in this village. This was again proved by the Sunday service in the church which was conducted in original traditional orthodox way. The congregation consists of both males and females but with distinct separation between the two.
The castle of Sigri on the other hand is a small stone castle, built sometimes in 1750’s and 1760’s in the ottoman style. The architecture is typical of Arabian with its alternating red and white stones originally used as fort by the Turks. What I found interesting in this castle is the well preserved remains of Turkish inscription and decorations. This I regard as a reflection of admiration of the past. Making it to the apex of the castle was garnished with promise of a wonderful view of the Aegean Sea, one that must not be missed by every intending tourist.
These are not all to be learnt from a visit to the most fascinating adventure in Greece, but a piece of the whole. The village represents an epitome of sustainable society. The fact that there is a tremendous potential for mass tourism left me with a question that remained unanswered until the end of my four days visit. Why is it difficult for mass tourism to consume Sigri as it had done to some touristic small towns or villages?
Sustainable tourism has promote/been promoted by successful preservation of the monuments and cultural heritage of this village. It plays an important role in making it a sustainable sector by: preserving the genuine history, making available for tourist diverse options and values for their money and time, and putting at its very core, the values of the Sigri people.
The promise of a small village is usually with little experiences that vanish in days. Sigri Island, a village of about 300 inhabitants, is a unique adventure with more memorable and lasting experience to offer than most big tourist cities in the world. Is that an exaggeration?
The road that leads to Sigri opens up to pristine and most beautiful part of Lesvos Island in Greece. The village is unique for its petrified forest that has already attracts a museum and park, exotic natural beaches, locally produced food, locally owned and run restaurants, sea foods; all with relatively western infrastructures that guarantee comfort for a sizable number of tourists. While looking for other features that could help to explain the evolution of this rare landscape, my special interest in rich cultural and historical legacies was arrested by the churches, monasteries and castle in this area. Of particular reference are the church of Agia Triada and the Sigri castle with their unique and gorgeous features. These are monuments of centuries old architecture and art that testify to the country’s rich religious heritage, doggedness of faith and tradition. Interestingly, the church of Agia Triada was originally a mosque built late in the Turkish period of 1870 and converted after the treaty of Lausanne in 1923. Evidently, there is an old hamman (Turkish bath), with water reservoir that fed it, which has remained unused since the Turks left the region. Out of my curiosity and admiration, I did ask one of the locals of the possibility of reopening this bath. He made it known to me that there are plans in place as interest from both within and outside the village particularly the tourist is growing every year. What a great icing on the cake that would be if plans are accomplished. There is no end to ingenuity in this village. This was again proved by the Sunday service in the church which was conducted in original traditional orthodox way. The congregation consists of both males and females but with distinct separation between the two.
The castle of Sigri on the other hand is a small stone castle, built sometimes in 1750’s and 1760’s in the ottoman style. The architecture is typical of Arabian with its alternating red and white stones originally used as fort by the Turks. What I found interesting in this castle is the well preserved remains of Turkish inscription and decorations. This I regard as a reflection of admiration of the past. Making it to the apex of the castle was garnished with promise of a wonderful view of the Aegean Sea, one that must not be missed by every intending tourist.
These are not all to be learnt from a visit to the most fascinating adventure in Greece, but a piece of the whole. The village represents an epitome of sustainable society. The fact that there is a tremendous potential for mass tourism left me with a question that remained unanswered until the end of my four days visit. Why is it difficult for mass tourism to consume Sigri as it had done to some touristic small towns or villages?
Sustainable tourism has promote/been promoted by successful preservation of the monuments and cultural heritage of this village. It plays an important role in making it a sustainable sector by: preserving the genuine history, making available for tourist diverse options and values for their money and time, and putting at its very core, the values of the Sigri people.
Fall in love with Sigri
By SHAN ZHOU
Published: July 15, 2008
BEIJING—People world wide usually come to Greece with a hope to experience romantic fairy-tales and amazing natural beauty. To many people, thousand years of history deposited on pillars in the Acropolis, sunset in Oia, and expensive meals on Santorini’s cliffs with a fantastic view of Aegean Sea are indispensable components in their journey. However, after one month’s travelling around Greece, I would say, those are not the true essence of travelling. Sigri, a small fishing village lying on the eastern part of Lesvos Island, has jumped into my heart becoming the first choice of getting the true experience of Greece.
Like the experience of falling love, I am attracted by Sigri’s true features the most. The sunset in the Sunset Restaurant in Sigri, with local residents drinking and talking in nearby bar, with dogs and cats running around, was a real sunset enchased in daily life. I enjoyed this silent scene much more than the crowded and commercial sunset in Oia, where the natural beauty has been utilized and transferred too much to cater for the needs of tourists. Sigri is a place where I would like to stop my pace and spend more time to experience a totally different lifestyle. It has rich sightseeing resources; however, its existence is not only for tourists.
Perhaps Sigri is not a good place for travel agents to earn money quickly, but it is an ideal choice for travelers who are searching for the serenity of mind. Here, you could see little trace left by visitors or even you could hardly distinguish visitors and residents. To some extent, Sigri tries to set forth the truth that everyone here is just passing travelers on the earth. Yes, you have to admit that we are all travelers.
Residents that I saw in Sigri usually give top priority to enjoying their life. A large number of them are previous visitors who fell in love with Sigri and then decided to stay here for a longer time. They know exactly the attractions of Sigri and try to preserve them and share with more visitors. Thus local environment, culture and life have been preserved very well under this ideology. Maybe “Sustainable tourism” is vague words to you, however, I am sure when you come here, you could definitely understand the words from Sigri: “love me little, love me long”.
Published: July 15, 2008
BEIJING—People world wide usually come to Greece with a hope to experience romantic fairy-tales and amazing natural beauty. To many people, thousand years of history deposited on pillars in the Acropolis, sunset in Oia, and expensive meals on Santorini’s cliffs with a fantastic view of Aegean Sea are indispensable components in their journey. However, after one month’s travelling around Greece, I would say, those are not the true essence of travelling. Sigri, a small fishing village lying on the eastern part of Lesvos Island, has jumped into my heart becoming the first choice of getting the true experience of Greece.
Like the experience of falling love, I am attracted by Sigri’s true features the most. The sunset in the Sunset Restaurant in Sigri, with local residents drinking and talking in nearby bar, with dogs and cats running around, was a real sunset enchased in daily life. I enjoyed this silent scene much more than the crowded and commercial sunset in Oia, where the natural beauty has been utilized and transferred too much to cater for the needs of tourists. Sigri is a place where I would like to stop my pace and spend more time to experience a totally different lifestyle. It has rich sightseeing resources; however, its existence is not only for tourists.
Perhaps Sigri is not a good place for travel agents to earn money quickly, but it is an ideal choice for travelers who are searching for the serenity of mind. Here, you could see little trace left by visitors or even you could hardly distinguish visitors and residents. To some extent, Sigri tries to set forth the truth that everyone here is just passing travelers on the earth. Yes, you have to admit that we are all travelers.
Residents that I saw in Sigri usually give top priority to enjoying their life. A large number of them are previous visitors who fell in love with Sigri and then decided to stay here for a longer time. They know exactly the attractions of Sigri and try to preserve them and share with more visitors. Thus local environment, culture and life have been preserved very well under this ideology. Maybe “Sustainable tourism” is vague words to you, however, I am sure when you come here, you could definitely understand the words from Sigri: “love me little, love me long”.
A simple way to contribute to sustainable tourism
Being a tourist carries a responsibility towards the community from social, economic and ecological perspectives. One major tourist attraction is the gastronomic specialties of the area visited. In this perspective, consuming local foods is a significant contribution to preserving the identity and boosting the economy of your tourist destination.
If your destination is Sigri, you are a lucky tourist! A small town in the North West of Lesvos Island in Aegean Greece directly gives you the feeling of being part of the small community of its three hundred inhabitants. Take a seat in a small restaurant by the sea shore, and while watching the fishing boats and feeling the breeze of the sea, you can indulge yourself in a rich meal of fresh foods and traditional recipes. Starting with the fresh “greek salad”, the famous “tzatziki” and other starters like “zucchini flowers”, “eggplant in tomato sauce”, you cannot miss the fresh sea foods including the “octopus”, “scampis” and different varieties of local fish, all served or cooked with the very fine olive oil of Lesvos the “Olive Island”. Is something missing on the menu? Of course, how can one forget the “Ouzo”! The meal wouldn’t be complete without the national drink produced from anis seeds planted in the island itself.
“Most of the restaurant ingredients are purchased locally, with very few coming from the neighboring island of Xios” confirmed Adonis, the owner of a local café in the center of Sigri. Adonis buys his vegetables from the local market as well as other available products such as the Ouzo and cheese. He is confident about the quality and taste of these products and is comfortable with their availability. Adonis serves the seasonal foods as “Ouzo tempters” which are generally snacks that accompany the drink. He also buys some of the fruit deserts from the women cooperatives of Lesvos Island, or of the neighboring island if not available in Lesvos. Adonis said that tourists usually ask for local dishes and like to try and explore traditional meals.
In the restaurant next door, the owner was proud to state that his mother is the cook of the restaurant, and that all meals are first prepared and tasted by their small family before being shared with the customers. He also confirmed that all available products on the island are given priority compared to the imported products which are most probably from other parts of Greece. You can feel the freshness and authenticity of what your taste buds will appreciate in Sigri! An English couple having breakfast in that restaurant stated that the freshness of the local food makes the difference in taste; while another tourist insisted on his desire to participate in the development of the area by making sure that the money he spends goes to the local people and not to foreign companies.
So if you go to Sigri, enjoy the delightful local meals while contributing to sustainable tourism!
If your destination is Sigri, you are a lucky tourist! A small town in the North West of Lesvos Island in Aegean Greece directly gives you the feeling of being part of the small community of its three hundred inhabitants. Take a seat in a small restaurant by the sea shore, and while watching the fishing boats and feeling the breeze of the sea, you can indulge yourself in a rich meal of fresh foods and traditional recipes. Starting with the fresh “greek salad”, the famous “tzatziki” and other starters like “zucchini flowers”, “eggplant in tomato sauce”, you cannot miss the fresh sea foods including the “octopus”, “scampis” and different varieties of local fish, all served or cooked with the very fine olive oil of Lesvos the “Olive Island”. Is something missing on the menu? Of course, how can one forget the “Ouzo”! The meal wouldn’t be complete without the national drink produced from anis seeds planted in the island itself.
“Most of the restaurant ingredients are purchased locally, with very few coming from the neighboring island of Xios” confirmed Adonis, the owner of a local café in the center of Sigri. Adonis buys his vegetables from the local market as well as other available products such as the Ouzo and cheese. He is confident about the quality and taste of these products and is comfortable with their availability. Adonis serves the seasonal foods as “Ouzo tempters” which are generally snacks that accompany the drink. He also buys some of the fruit deserts from the women cooperatives of Lesvos Island, or of the neighboring island if not available in Lesvos. Adonis said that tourists usually ask for local dishes and like to try and explore traditional meals.
In the restaurant next door, the owner was proud to state that his mother is the cook of the restaurant, and that all meals are first prepared and tasted by their small family before being shared with the customers. He also confirmed that all available products on the island are given priority compared to the imported products which are most probably from other parts of Greece. You can feel the freshness and authenticity of what your taste buds will appreciate in Sigri! An English couple having breakfast in that restaurant stated that the freshness of the local food makes the difference in taste; while another tourist insisted on his desire to participate in the development of the area by making sure that the money he spends goes to the local people and not to foreign companies.
So if you go to Sigri, enjoy the delightful local meals while contributing to sustainable tourism!
Water, the Road Starts
The road to ManaThe old supply system
By Huang He, Mespom 2007-2009
Everyone who goes to visit Sigri should have that excellent guide Sigri: Where the Road Ends. For me, the road of Sigri has never ended. After two weeks from Greece, I miss Sigri so much now and my lovely road of Sigri probably will never stop. But where did I start my road? Water, my story of Sigri starts from the water.
I was quite interested in the old water supply system of Sigri. As an isolated village, the water must be the linchpin of the village. Also as an environmental student, I also hope to know the water future of this cute village.
Hiking towards Mana
So with the map from the Roy Lawrance, my road of Sigri started from searching for the “Mana”. I am not sure if I found exactly the spring water that time, but I know I found something, and the way to search for it was full of interesting.
Finally I found something, not sure it is the old spring. Someone told me I should go deep into the hill. But I could not find the way. Anyway, the process is much more important than the results and I enjoy the hiking quite a lot.
Searching for old fountains
After the Mana, the next stop of my water searching is to find all the three fountains. I was informed that there are three old fountains remained from Turkey periods. So I decided to find them and take pictures of them. For me, it is a hobby like collect coins or stamps. Probably some locals still remember a fatty walked around the village asking for fountains, yes, that was me. And finally, I collected all the sexy pictures of those three fountains.
The old supply system
Thank you so much to the nice jeweler in the village who told me the story and the technology of the system. The old supply system is an excellent project. The water from the spring was pumped first to the top of the hill and then to the tank under the church and the harbor. Yes, right, pump to the top of the hill, without electricity but vacuum. At that time, it must be an talent work. And the work is organized by a great Greek leader.
With the permit of the president of the village and his secretary, I assumed she is the prime minister if the village, we got the change to have a look at the water tank under the church. Even though the tank has been converted to a small museum, we still can find many interesting things there.
I am also very curious of the water supply system now in Sigri. As I know, some water problems happened last year. And the sustainable water supply system is crucial for the future of the village. According to the president, three spring resources are used to supply water for Sigri. The first one is about 5 km away from Sigri with the supply of 180 tons per day. The water is pumped to the tank on the hill first and then runs to the village with gravity; this is the oldest one but with the highest quality. The second and the third one are developed in the last few decades, which can supply 400 tons per day and around 180 tons per day. The new pipe is being built these days to reduce the waste of water and make it more efficient. I should say, the president as well as the prime minister is really nice and smart.
Saving water
Last but not least, both I and Jana are very interested in the finance of the water system. Locals pay for the water twice a year (or once a year, not sure now) with a certain amount of money which is very low compared to other place in Greece. Since the water system is isolated from other parts of Lesvos, it sounds reasonable and is considered as welfare for the villagers. But it seems some methods of saving water should be organized in the village especially during the summer seasons.
Fastforwarding History
“A nation that forgets its past can function no better than an individual with amnesia”:-
David C. McCollough (American author b. 1933)
The history of a region is an integral part of the local as well as regional make up. It channels the behavioral patterns of the local people and forges traditions which then stand the test of time. Culture is the amalgamation of the several such historical influences on the minds and the behavior of the people.
Tourists all over the world visit places which have something special to offer. They value having a unique experience and treasure the memories. Right from the remotest places like the Angkor Vat in Cambodia to the most visited Buckingham Palace in England, people like to see, behold and experience the historical traditions. People like to imagine how things were at times gone by. They like to put themselves in the same situation and derive thrill, happiness, pleasure and a valuable experience from it.
Sigri, a small harbour on the western side of the island of Lesvos, Greece derives its name from the Greek word for security. It is a natural harbour which is safe because of the island of Nissiopi. This little village has many peculiar historical remains like the Turkish castle from the 18th century Ottoman rule. The lifestyle of the old times is an integral part of the culture.
Preservation of these historical remains and the lifestyle requires financial back up. Tourism could be the answer to this. It has the advantages of sustaining the traditional lives of the people, selling of a non-physical commodity (a service if you may) and providing livelihood for the locals. The services that can be sold can include giving the tourists a chance to experience the ways of living in the days gone by. This includes celebration of traditional festivals, fighting wars, earning livelihood and entertainment.
This kind of tourism is sustainable because it is something which can only be carried out by the locals as only they know what historically they have been doing. An example of how interesting such a venture can be for a tourist is evident in the photo where I (tourist) is trying out his hand at throwing spears in the traditional village castle of Holloko, in Hungary. Such an experience can leave an indelible mark on one’s mind.
The effect of such type of tourism on the tourist is that he would have seen more than he can remember and remember more than what he has seen. This should leave him wanting for more.
David C. McCollough (American author b. 1933)
The history of a region is an integral part of the local as well as regional make up. It channels the behavioral patterns of the local people and forges traditions which then stand the test of time. Culture is the amalgamation of the several such historical influences on the minds and the behavior of the people.
Tourists all over the world visit places which have something special to offer. They value having a unique experience and treasure the memories. Right from the remotest places like the Angkor Vat in Cambodia to the most visited Buckingham Palace in England, people like to see, behold and experience the historical traditions. People like to imagine how things were at times gone by. They like to put themselves in the same situation and derive thrill, happiness, pleasure and a valuable experience from it.
Sigri, a small harbour on the western side of the island of Lesvos, Greece derives its name from the Greek word for security. It is a natural harbour which is safe because of the island of Nissiopi. This little village has many peculiar historical remains like the Turkish castle from the 18th century Ottoman rule. The lifestyle of the old times is an integral part of the culture.
Preservation of these historical remains and the lifestyle requires financial back up. Tourism could be the answer to this. It has the advantages of sustaining the traditional lives of the people, selling of a non-physical commodity (a service if you may) and providing livelihood for the locals. The services that can be sold can include giving the tourists a chance to experience the ways of living in the days gone by. This includes celebration of traditional festivals, fighting wars, earning livelihood and entertainment.
This kind of tourism is sustainable because it is something which can only be carried out by the locals as only they know what historically they have been doing. An example of how interesting such a venture can be for a tourist is evident in the photo where I (tourist) is trying out his hand at throwing spears in the traditional village castle of Holloko, in Hungary. Such an experience can leave an indelible mark on one’s mind.
The effect of such type of tourism on the tourist is that he would have seen more than he can remember and remember more than what he has seen. This should leave him wanting for more.
Importance of local produce for the Sigri Tourism- If you are looking for a fresh seafood meal, come to Sigri
Ouzo and Mezedes in Sigri:one of the delicious local produce for attracting the touristSubmitted by Vijayakumar kuttappan
Sigri is a beautiful town with a nice beach which is perfectly suited to families with small children and some good restaurants with plenty of fresh fish, caught locally, and their specialty which is lobster. To make it even more special there is a big old Turkish castle that overlooks the whole village.But the most important unknown fact about Sigri is the wind which keeps this part of Lesvos cool when the rest of the island is hot What baffled me was "Why hadn't the wind-surfers discovered this place yet?" It's a typical town for mass tourism"but so far it has not grown in to tourist town there really are very few tourists in Sigri.
If the windsurfers ever discover Sigri you will see the town prosper. For now it is just a comfortable port town at the end of the road in northwest Lesvos.Most people come to Sigri by car, taxi or bus. It's about an hour and a half from the port of Mytilini, through some of the most interesting and varied landscapes on the island.The Turkish Castle is probably the towns most impressive man-made feature. Built in 1746 by the Sultan Mehmet, this fortress protected the harbor where the Turks kept their fleet.The church of Agia Triada was originally built as a mosque. But unlike other mosques which face Mecca, the men who constructed it somehow were able to face it east.There are Petrified Forest-It is a bunch of trees that are now rocks.The different types of trees petrify in different designs and colors.Petrified wood is not limited to the forest, but can be found all over the southwestern portion of the island. In Sigri you have a town that is everything a good tourist town should be. Good food, clean beaches, nice hotels, great family run restaurants with fresh fish, stuff to do and even a tourist shop or two, and yet it is not over-run with tourists. Sigri is certainly worth a visit for lunch and a swim.Anything we got that was fish was fresh and delicous. I took food in Some restaurant and they got grilled sardines, tyrokavteri (spicy cheese), mussels saganaki, clams, greens and gavros pastes (raw anchovies marinated in vinegar.The pikilea, the mezedes they served with ouzo which included, marinated octopus, sardeles pastes, red peppers stuffed with cheese, hot peppers, olives, tomatoes looked not only good but also tasty.If you are looking for a great seafood meal, with or without lobster, come to Remezzos in Sigri. It's right in town on the road that leads to the beach from the harbor.
If the windsurfers ever discover Sigri you will see the town prosper. For now it is just a comfortable port town at the end of the road in northwest Lesvos.Most people come to Sigri by car, taxi or bus. It's about an hour and a half from the port of Mytilini, through some of the most interesting and varied landscapes on the island.The Turkish Castle is probably the towns most impressive man-made feature. Built in 1746 by the Sultan Mehmet, this fortress protected the harbor where the Turks kept their fleet.The church of Agia Triada was originally built as a mosque. But unlike other mosques which face Mecca, the men who constructed it somehow were able to face it east.There are Petrified Forest-It is a bunch of trees that are now rocks.The different types of trees petrify in different designs and colors.Petrified wood is not limited to the forest, but can be found all over the southwestern portion of the island. In Sigri you have a town that is everything a good tourist town should be. Good food, clean beaches, nice hotels, great family run restaurants with fresh fish, stuff to do and even a tourist shop or two, and yet it is not over-run with tourists. Sigri is certainly worth a visit for lunch and a swim.Anything we got that was fish was fresh and delicous. I took food in Some restaurant and they got grilled sardines, tyrokavteri (spicy cheese), mussels saganaki, clams, greens and gavros pastes (raw anchovies marinated in vinegar.The pikilea, the mezedes they served with ouzo which included, marinated octopus, sardeles pastes, red peppers stuffed with cheese, hot peppers, olives, tomatoes looked not only good but also tasty.If you are looking for a great seafood meal, with or without lobster, come to Remezzos in Sigri. It's right in town on the road that leads to the beach from the harbor.
A protected piece of Greece at the end of the road…
Perhaps it’s the dilapidated windmill or the pungent aroma of oregano which gives Sigri a magical feel of an island town from another era. This untouched essence is hard to find anywhere but particularly in Greece whose popularity as a tourist destination has “ruined” the authenticity of most of the Greek islands. Sigri’s lack of popularity is by no means an indication of lack of tourist attractions but rather an indication of the hassle it takes to get there. The town and surrounding area boasts ruins of a Turkish castle, a hilltop monastery, one of the largest petrified forests in the world, a natural history museum, and deserted beaches. While these attractions make a nice laundry list of activities to keep you busy on your holiday, once you arrive in Sigri you’ll realize that one of the best parts of being there is simply enjoying the hospitality of its residents and the culinary delights.
Getting to Sigri is the most challenging part of the trip. After flying into Mytilline, the main city on Lesvos, driving to Sigri takes a minimum of two hours on winding roads through Lesvos’ mountains. If you plan on exploring the surrounding countryside or making a trip to the monastery consider renting a car as hitchhiking once you get to Sigri is virtually impossible due to a lack of any traffic. If your main goal is to relax in the town and nearby beaches taking a bus can allow you to avoid the treacherous roads.
Sigri’s remoteness is the very thing that has protected it from overdevelopment. Organized tours were run to Sigri during the late 1980s and throughout the 90s but the last tour company stopped running tours right after the turn of the century. While this can mean an unreliable flow of tourists for business owners in the town, it does mean that tourists who choose to come to Sigri are the kind of tourists who are looking for a genuine Greek experience rather than the curio shops and nightclubs which liter other Greek islands.
Indeed many of these tourists actually return to Sigri year after year. A former tour leader on the island indicated that during the 15 years of running tours in the town, over two-thirds of people return at least once. When asked why they return, tourists say they come back for the people and the authenticity of the town. One British couple that has been vacationing in the village for over twenty years articulated feeling like “part of the family” in Sigri. When asked what has changed over the years the couple has been vacationing in Sigri she said nothing other than people being born and dying. An American tourist visiting Greece for the first time said that even though normally she doesn’t go back to places she would be reluctant to go anywhere else in Greece for fear that it wouldn’t feel as special and authentic as Sigri feels.
Business owners also express affection for tourists who are interested in the town itself. The owner of the only jewelry shop in the town said that he welcomes tourists, even large groups especially when they’re interested in the history and culture of the town and when they come for more than just partying.
But one word of advice for your trip to Sigri: take enough cash to cover your stay there because Sigri is at the end of the road but beyond the end of the bank machine lines.
Getting to Sigri is the most challenging part of the trip. After flying into Mytilline, the main city on Lesvos, driving to Sigri takes a minimum of two hours on winding roads through Lesvos’ mountains. If you plan on exploring the surrounding countryside or making a trip to the monastery consider renting a car as hitchhiking once you get to Sigri is virtually impossible due to a lack of any traffic. If your main goal is to relax in the town and nearby beaches taking a bus can allow you to avoid the treacherous roads.
Sigri’s remoteness is the very thing that has protected it from overdevelopment. Organized tours were run to Sigri during the late 1980s and throughout the 90s but the last tour company stopped running tours right after the turn of the century. While this can mean an unreliable flow of tourists for business owners in the town, it does mean that tourists who choose to come to Sigri are the kind of tourists who are looking for a genuine Greek experience rather than the curio shops and nightclubs which liter other Greek islands.
Indeed many of these tourists actually return to Sigri year after year. A former tour leader on the island indicated that during the 15 years of running tours in the town, over two-thirds of people return at least once. When asked why they return, tourists say they come back for the people and the authenticity of the town. One British couple that has been vacationing in the village for over twenty years articulated feeling like “part of the family” in Sigri. When asked what has changed over the years the couple has been vacationing in Sigri she said nothing other than people being born and dying. An American tourist visiting Greece for the first time said that even though normally she doesn’t go back to places she would be reluctant to go anywhere else in Greece for fear that it wouldn’t feel as special and authentic as Sigri feels.
Business owners also express affection for tourists who are interested in the town itself. The owner of the only jewelry shop in the town said that he welcomes tourists, even large groups especially when they’re interested in the history and culture of the town and when they come for more than just partying.
But one word of advice for your trip to Sigri: take enough cash to cover your stay there because Sigri is at the end of the road but beyond the end of the bank machine lines.
Kalimera!
By Grace Viera /MESPOM 2009Greece is an amazing place to visit. Its natural resources, cultural sites, fabulous cuisine, and friendly people make traveling to Greece an unforgettable and unique experience. Greece is characterized for being one of the most touristic places in the world. People search for different things: fun, relax, peace, knowledge, all this things can be found in Greece.
Lesvos Island in particular is well known for bird watching and lesbian tourism. Nevertheless, this island has a lot more to offer than that. In Mitilini there is a beautiful port with lots of restaurants in which tourists can enjoy a backgammon game in a trendy cafe or have a walk to the old castle in the top of the city. It is also worthed to visit Molivos and its handicrafts shops or Sikamnias and its ships and church.
Another highlight point in a visit to Lesvos Island is Sigri. This is a perfect place to rediscover nature and why not to find yourself. Its peaceful streets, beautiful beaches, and friendly people can make this place a perfect place for vacations or why not to live in. Sigri offers its visitors the opportunity to see many attractions from a Petrified Forest to an ancient castle. Nevertheless, what is impressive about the place is that is so small, far, and pristine but at the same time has everything: excellent restaurants, internet, museums, beaches, and churches, anything you can ask for it is there. Sigri is like leaving surrounded by the quietness, peaceful and beautiful landscapes that are rear in this time but with all the technology and supplies that you need. From handicraft stores, through internet, hotels, bars or anything you can ask for.
The opportunity of opening the balcony window and watching the sea in the morning, eating in a restaurant in the shore of the sea, talking with locals despite the language barrier, watching a football game at night, walking in the sea sand, getting a dip into clean crystal water was unique. Watching a sunset or a sunrise, feeling the breeze, all of these things can make a vacation in Lesvos wonderful. Sigri in particular is a place to which you always want to go back. It is perfect to enjoy with family and friends or simply to escape from the rush of the city.
Let’s hope that relative pristine areas like this may be preserved, there is a need to protect this areas. The only way to keep enjoying these earth paradises is to protect them, respecting local traditions and do not disturbing locals lifestyle while supporting and consuming local products and helping to make tourism to this places sustainable.
Lesvos Island in particular is well known for bird watching and lesbian tourism. Nevertheless, this island has a lot more to offer than that. In Mitilini there is a beautiful port with lots of restaurants in which tourists can enjoy a backgammon game in a trendy cafe or have a walk to the old castle in the top of the city. It is also worthed to visit Molivos and its handicrafts shops or Sikamnias and its ships and church.
Another highlight point in a visit to Lesvos Island is Sigri. This is a perfect place to rediscover nature and why not to find yourself. Its peaceful streets, beautiful beaches, and friendly people can make this place a perfect place for vacations or why not to live in. Sigri offers its visitors the opportunity to see many attractions from a Petrified Forest to an ancient castle. Nevertheless, what is impressive about the place is that is so small, far, and pristine but at the same time has everything: excellent restaurants, internet, museums, beaches, and churches, anything you can ask for it is there. Sigri is like leaving surrounded by the quietness, peaceful and beautiful landscapes that are rear in this time but with all the technology and supplies that you need. From handicraft stores, through internet, hotels, bars or anything you can ask for.
The opportunity of opening the balcony window and watching the sea in the morning, eating in a restaurant in the shore of the sea, talking with locals despite the language barrier, watching a football game at night, walking in the sea sand, getting a dip into clean crystal water was unique. Watching a sunset or a sunrise, feeling the breeze, all of these things can make a vacation in Lesvos wonderful. Sigri in particular is a place to which you always want to go back. It is perfect to enjoy with family and friends or simply to escape from the rush of the city.
Let’s hope that relative pristine areas like this may be preserved, there is a need to protect this areas. The only way to keep enjoying these earth paradises is to protect them, respecting local traditions and do not disturbing locals lifestyle while supporting and consuming local products and helping to make tourism to this places sustainable.
Lesvos- an experience in true Greece
By Britta Swanson
A trip to Greece to many consists of good food, beaches, and relaxation. But where are all of these experiences to be found? Escape the press of crowds in Athens and overcrowded beaches and experience true Greece on the island of Lesvos. Lesvos has many offerings, from bustling Mytilini to traditional fishing villages such as Plomari to the petrified forest near the village of Sigri. There is plenty to see and plenty of room to escape on this wonderful island.
Mytilini, the island’s capital, is a great place to get a feel for a typical Greek city. There is a busy shopping district, lively nightlife along the waterfront, and some beautiful homes to see around the city. There are few tourists compared to many other tourist destinations in Greece, so there are ample opportunities to see what life is actually like in island Greece. Surrounding Mytilini, and all over Eastern Lesvos, are numerous olive farms which produce the olive fruit grown to make the distinctive olive oil from the island. The convenience of ferries to Chios and Athens at the city harbor offers options to continue ones’ trip.
Plomari, a quaint town on the south of Lesvos, is a fishing village where one can have tasty food and see some of traditional life, as well as visit one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. This isn’t a regular beach- rather than sand or rocks, it is actually covered in pebbles!
Finally, for the adventurous, the village of Sigri far on the Western coast of Lesvos is a beautiful and welcoming destination. Near Sigri is the Petrified forest, a unique geological phenomena where a volcanic eruption turned an ancient forest into mineralized fossils. Many of these are still partially standing and visible in the forest area, and there is a lovely museum that explains the mineralization process. The village of Sigri itself is a lovely place to stroll around and get lost on the winding streets, eat delicious traditional foods in the town square restaurants, hang out on one of the many quiet beaches around the village, or just relax and take it easy!
Whether you are looking for a scenic getaway, a Greek-city experience, or just good food and relaxing, Lesvos is an ideal place to experience what Greece is really like, and to have a wonderful time while at it!
A trip to Greece to many consists of good food, beaches, and relaxation. But where are all of these experiences to be found? Escape the press of crowds in Athens and overcrowded beaches and experience true Greece on the island of Lesvos. Lesvos has many offerings, from bustling Mytilini to traditional fishing villages such as Plomari to the petrified forest near the village of Sigri. There is plenty to see and plenty of room to escape on this wonderful island.
Mytilini, the island’s capital, is a great place to get a feel for a typical Greek city. There is a busy shopping district, lively nightlife along the waterfront, and some beautiful homes to see around the city. There are few tourists compared to many other tourist destinations in Greece, so there are ample opportunities to see what life is actually like in island Greece. Surrounding Mytilini, and all over Eastern Lesvos, are numerous olive farms which produce the olive fruit grown to make the distinctive olive oil from the island. The convenience of ferries to Chios and Athens at the city harbor offers options to continue ones’ trip.
Plomari, a quaint town on the south of Lesvos, is a fishing village where one can have tasty food and see some of traditional life, as well as visit one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. This isn’t a regular beach- rather than sand or rocks, it is actually covered in pebbles!
Finally, for the adventurous, the village of Sigri far on the Western coast of Lesvos is a beautiful and welcoming destination. Near Sigri is the Petrified forest, a unique geological phenomena where a volcanic eruption turned an ancient forest into mineralized fossils. Many of these are still partially standing and visible in the forest area, and there is a lovely museum that explains the mineralization process. The village of Sigri itself is a lovely place to stroll around and get lost on the winding streets, eat delicious traditional foods in the town square restaurants, hang out on one of the many quiet beaches around the village, or just relax and take it easy!
Whether you are looking for a scenic getaway, a Greek-city experience, or just good food and relaxing, Lesvos is an ideal place to experience what Greece is really like, and to have a wonderful time while at it!
Eating and Enjoying Local Food in Sigri
By Rachel Horwat
To many tourists, a major part of the voyage is eating – trying local produce, tasting different recipes, sipping local wines and beers and generally enjoying the tastier part of tourism.
Eating “local” while travelling can play a major role in supporting sustainable tourism. Eating local retains money in the local economy and can thus contribute to local development. Moreover, it often supports smaller-scale agriculture which is generally less harmful to the environment. Finally, gastronomic tourism can help to develop a destination’s touristic image based on its local food and culture.
Even in a tiny town like Sigri on the island of Lesvos, Greece there are many gastronomic treats to discover. One of the highlights is the local handicrafts and food products sold at the Natural History Museum of the Petrified Forest. Here, you can sample local honeys, olives and olive oils, sea salt, and desserts, as well as soaps and lotions, some of which are crafted by the women’s cooperative.
Another gastronomic experience unique to Sigri is hailing down the local “vegetable and fruit man” or the “fish man,” as they have been named. One cannot miss the loudspeaker announcing his arrival around the town when the day begins. Stop the truck and you can find enough fresh produce to cook up your own meal aided, perhaps, with some recipe tips from the locals.
No voyage would be complete without also eating out at at least one of the five restaurants in Sigri, many of which have fresh local fish dishes daily. Speaking with your waiter or waitress to ask what is available is even better than looking over the menu. Restaurants in Sigri generally cook what is available and can cater to your taste and preference.
A mistake that some tourists coming from Mytiline or other bigger towns might make (as did I) is to buy food before coming to Sigri in the fear that food would be more expensive and/or harder to find. Perhaps a strategy to avoid this would be to start an informative tourist campaign for the small towns on Lesvos that ensure tourists that food is available at competitive prices all over the island.
Another challenge for restaurant owners and businesses is to ensure that local foods are available. After a long day in the sun, I went to a restaurant hoping to sip on a local beer and all that was available was a Heineken (which made me wish I was in Amsterdam!). In other small towns that also face challenges of consistency in delivery and transportation, town-wide supply-chain management can help to ensure availability of local products based on supply and demand.
Eating “local” while travelling can play a major role in supporting sustainable tourism. Eating local retains money in the local economy and can thus contribute to local development. Moreover, it often supports smaller-scale agriculture which is generally less harmful to the environment. Finally, gastronomic tourism can help to develop a destination’s touristic image based on its local food and culture.
Even in a tiny town like Sigri on the island of Lesvos, Greece there are many gastronomic treats to discover. One of the highlights is the local handicrafts and food products sold at the Natural History Museum of the Petrified Forest. Here, you can sample local honeys, olives and olive oils, sea salt, and desserts, as well as soaps and lotions, some of which are crafted by the women’s cooperative.
Another gastronomic experience unique to Sigri is hailing down the local “vegetable and fruit man” or the “fish man,” as they have been named. One cannot miss the loudspeaker announcing his arrival around the town when the day begins. Stop the truck and you can find enough fresh produce to cook up your own meal aided, perhaps, with some recipe tips from the locals.
No voyage would be complete without also eating out at at least one of the five restaurants in Sigri, many of which have fresh local fish dishes daily. Speaking with your waiter or waitress to ask what is available is even better than looking over the menu. Restaurants in Sigri generally cook what is available and can cater to your taste and preference.
A mistake that some tourists coming from Mytiline or other bigger towns might make (as did I) is to buy food before coming to Sigri in the fear that food would be more expensive and/or harder to find. Perhaps a strategy to avoid this would be to start an informative tourist campaign for the small towns on Lesvos that ensure tourists that food is available at competitive prices all over the island.
Another challenge for restaurant owners and businesses is to ensure that local foods are available. After a long day in the sun, I went to a restaurant hoping to sip on a local beer and all that was available was a Heineken (which made me wish I was in Amsterdam!). In other small towns that also face challenges of consistency in delivery and transportation, town-wide supply-chain management can help to ensure availability of local products based on supply and demand.
Sigri: A place for perfect holidays
By Richa Singh
With the changing time and busy schedules, what more one can ask for other than an ideal place to spend their vacations? Away from the vehicles running all day long on the road and workplaces where you are fixed in front of your machines, lies a village, Sigri, which offers you the comfort one longs for.
A small fishing village, hiding away from all the noises of the city, so clean and pure, Sigri, is a worthwhile place to take a break. It is a natural beauty, has great restaurants, friendly people and ample accommodations which make it a dream destination for travelers who want to experience the Greek islands without all the bells and whistles of mass tourism. I spent four most relaxing days of my life being there. It is not very a tourist destination and this is what keeps is distinct. Living in a place like Sigri could be quite challenging for a city person. The lifestyle, habits and attitude towards the life was so easy going and way different. The people are so calm and welcoming to your questions and queries. But the question is that will this increasing tourism will let the village live sustainably or once it exceeds its carrying capacity how would the villagers react to this.
It is a very general fact that tourism helps as a major factor when it comes to economical and regional growth of a region. And this holds true in this case as well.
There are so many reasons lying in this small place that unknowingly attracts you to visit it.” You scratch the surface and find the wealth of offerings from this small village.” The unexploited shallow beaches are just so perfect to lie down with your friends and family and enjoy the time of your lifetime. There is a tavern on the beachside who serves you with the fresh sea food (fish, lobsters and octopus). You find two or three tourist shops which sell the village made goods. Even these shops are not fully loaded and over crowded with the tourist. The prices are genuine and encourage the tourist to buy. One of the major attractions of the village is the Petrified Forest and the museum. This museum gives you a wealth of information and some spectacular examples of petrified wood.
“Sustainable tourism is about refocusing and re-adapting. A balance must be found between limits and usage so that tourism can be managed. Economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainable development must include the interests of all stakeholders including local people and communities, visitors, industry and government.” And I found Sigri to be a perfectly balanced with all interests.
With the changing time and busy schedules, what more one can ask for other than an ideal place to spend their vacations? Away from the vehicles running all day long on the road and workplaces where you are fixed in front of your machines, lies a village, Sigri, which offers you the comfort one longs for.
A small fishing village, hiding away from all the noises of the city, so clean and pure, Sigri, is a worthwhile place to take a break. It is a natural beauty, has great restaurants, friendly people and ample accommodations which make it a dream destination for travelers who want to experience the Greek islands without all the bells and whistles of mass tourism. I spent four most relaxing days of my life being there. It is not very a tourist destination and this is what keeps is distinct. Living in a place like Sigri could be quite challenging for a city person. The lifestyle, habits and attitude towards the life was so easy going and way different. The people are so calm and welcoming to your questions and queries. But the question is that will this increasing tourism will let the village live sustainably or once it exceeds its carrying capacity how would the villagers react to this.
It is a very general fact that tourism helps as a major factor when it comes to economical and regional growth of a region. And this holds true in this case as well.
There are so many reasons lying in this small place that unknowingly attracts you to visit it.” You scratch the surface and find the wealth of offerings from this small village.” The unexploited shallow beaches are just so perfect to lie down with your friends and family and enjoy the time of your lifetime. There is a tavern on the beachside who serves you with the fresh sea food (fish, lobsters and octopus). You find two or three tourist shops which sell the village made goods. Even these shops are not fully loaded and over crowded with the tourist. The prices are genuine and encourage the tourist to buy. One of the major attractions of the village is the Petrified Forest and the museum. This museum gives you a wealth of information and some spectacular examples of petrified wood.
“Sustainable tourism is about refocusing and re-adapting. A balance must be found between limits and usage so that tourism can be managed. Economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainable development must include the interests of all stakeholders including local people and communities, visitors, industry and government.” And I found Sigri to be a perfectly balanced with all interests.
The Great Escape…
By Olena Kiva, MESPOM 2007-2009
After long and winding road you finally get to this small and cosy place… several-storey white-and-blue houses, curly paths leading towards the beach, friendly local people – these are probably the first things you notice about Sigri. But don’t think that it is all that this awesome place may offer you.
Sigri being itself a fishing village has long history as western sea port of the Lesvos island with castle built in 1757. Advantageous geographical position is caused by the small island of Nisiopi that protects Sigri from the sea winds and creates fascinating view as well as better swimming conditions on the village’s beach.
Local architectural attractions combine Turkish and Greek masterpieces as the whole island of Lesvos was for long time under the Turkish occupation. In the center of Sigri one may find mosque converted to an orthodox church and ruins of the Turkish bathes, as well as a church in the typical Byzantine style. Going further one discovers several restaurants and cafes with hospitable staff and menus full with Greek specialities (e.g., musaka, fried octopuses and squids) and locally produced spirits (wine, ouzo etc.).
Among the main attractions of the village is the fact that there are no huge all-inclusive hotels in Sigri. So everybody coming here is fully exposed to the local lifestyle and in the same way can contribute to the development of local community (e.g., by buying souvenirs and food products produced by women’s cooperatives).
Getting used to Sigri and its dwellers as well as having relaxing action may cause a feeling of monotony. But here the journey only starts as you will discover nearby beaches (e.g., Faneromeni beach) and the Museum of Petrified Forest, which main exposition is located in the village itself, but includes protected areas all around Sigri. Travelling further you may go to visit Eressos and Antissa, which are also among of the most picturesque and historically important places of the island.
Therefore Sigri is perfect option for family vacation as well as for intimate and romantic honeymoon. Visiting Sigri promises not only sunny and “salty” vacation, but also a lot of genuine impressions of Greek cultural, natural, and historical heritage. So whenever you feel like escaping from grey and monotonous big-city dweller’s lifestyle and like learning something new from the place you are going to visit, you should just take a plane and find yourself in the fairytale that has a simple name – Sigri.
After long and winding road you finally get to this small and cosy place… several-storey white-and-blue houses, curly paths leading towards the beach, friendly local people – these are probably the first things you notice about Sigri. But don’t think that it is all that this awesome place may offer you.
Sigri being itself a fishing village has long history as western sea port of the Lesvos island with castle built in 1757. Advantageous geographical position is caused by the small island of Nisiopi that protects Sigri from the sea winds and creates fascinating view as well as better swimming conditions on the village’s beach.
Local architectural attractions combine Turkish and Greek masterpieces as the whole island of Lesvos was for long time under the Turkish occupation. In the center of Sigri one may find mosque converted to an orthodox church and ruins of the Turkish bathes, as well as a church in the typical Byzantine style. Going further one discovers several restaurants and cafes with hospitable staff and menus full with Greek specialities (e.g., musaka, fried octopuses and squids) and locally produced spirits (wine, ouzo etc.).
Among the main attractions of the village is the fact that there are no huge all-inclusive hotels in Sigri. So everybody coming here is fully exposed to the local lifestyle and in the same way can contribute to the development of local community (e.g., by buying souvenirs and food products produced by women’s cooperatives).
Getting used to Sigri and its dwellers as well as having relaxing action may cause a feeling of monotony. But here the journey only starts as you will discover nearby beaches (e.g., Faneromeni beach) and the Museum of Petrified Forest, which main exposition is located in the village itself, but includes protected areas all around Sigri. Travelling further you may go to visit Eressos and Antissa, which are also among of the most picturesque and historically important places of the island.
Therefore Sigri is perfect option for family vacation as well as for intimate and romantic honeymoon. Visiting Sigri promises not only sunny and “salty” vacation, but also a lot of genuine impressions of Greek cultural, natural, and historical heritage. So whenever you feel like escaping from grey and monotonous big-city dweller’s lifestyle and like learning something new from the place you are going to visit, you should just take a plane and find yourself in the fairytale that has a simple name – Sigri.
Tourism development potential in Sigri
Prepared by Chkanikova Olga
After spending the whole month at Lesvos the only last destination to visit was Sigri. Have heard about this tiny fishery village in the western coast-line of the island well-known for its picturesque sceneries I cannot even expect that after 3 hours way from Mytilini to Sigri I will get in the Fairyland of wonderfully colorful sunsets, crystal-clear water, beautiful views of the natural harbor where the village located, ancient buildings keeping in their memories thrilling historical events associated with this place and unique natural monument of the petrified forest preserving the remnants of the previous epoch dating back to 20 million years ago. Such unique combination of many interesting features in one place makes Sigri the attractive destination for great variety of tourists either searching for the place with conciliative atmosphere to relax from the noisy every day routine of big cities or those who are fond of exploring new places with interesting history and monuments to learn about.
The natural beauty of this place is magnificent. The hilly terrain with small pretty white houses with red roofs gradually descends to the sky-blue sea. The indented shoreline increases the aesthetical value of the marine scenery. Here, standing under the rays of caressing sun, feeling the soft wafts of fresh salty wind and hearing the rhythmical lapping of the waves someone start to feel oneself free from everyday worries, full of positive emotions and energy, and so close to nature. The sunset is another thing to mention. Starting with rich colors of yellow and orange it is replaced with soft tints of rose and purple when the sun has already disappeared from the scene. The view is really charming. No wonder this place is worth visiting to enjoy nature and obtain peace of mind.
The place is also interesting from the historical perspective. The earlier settlements appeared here dated back to the first millennium AD but were demolished by Saracens and later Turks invasions. The recent history of the village started in the middle of the 18th century with establishment of the present castle by Turks who had considered the natural harbor of the village the best strategic place for the fortress location. The remnants of the castle as well as the church of Agia Triada which was built in the period of Turkish occupation in 1870 and originally was the mosque are located in the center of the village and constitute the archeological, cultural and architectural heritage of the that times. Moreover, located in the surroundings Ypsilou and Perivoli Monastries (14km far) as well as Zoodochos Pigi church in the rocks at Faneromeni beach (3km far) are also very attractive sights for tourist visits (Lawrance 2001).
The petrified forest is another unique place in the surroundings of Sigri. It covers an area of 150,000 acres (Lawrance 2001) with the similar specimens of petrified trunks existing only in Arizona and Utah. Due to intensive volcanic eruptions in the region around 20 million years ago the pyroclastic materials covered existed vegetation and protected it from the external conditions while the presence of the silica rich fluids favored the process of petrification and led to the replacement of organic material into inorganic. Due to soil erosion in the recent times the hidden trees with root systems, branches, leaves and fruits appeared to be on the surface presenting the perfectly conserved data about flora and climate in the Aegean region 20 million years ago. The most impressive fact that increases the scientific value of the forest is that an entire ecosystem has been remained intact in their natural location. The biggest tree trunks rich up to 20 meters in height and about 3 meters in diameter. (Zouros et al. 2000) The paleontological, geological and environmental uniqueness of the forest makes it an attractive destination for tourists.
Thus, according to the peculiar combinations of before mentioned natural and historical characteristics Sigri has a good potential for the development of tourism. However taking into account the small scale and therefore limiting carrying capacity of the village and the fragility of the petrified forest area and present ecosystems the tourist activities should be developed in the sustainable way to protect, preserve and promote this unique place of our planet.
The priority for development in the region should be given for creation of protected area of petrified forest designated for sustainable tourism. Bringing financial support to the locals it will at the same time contribute to the further scientific investigations, support environmental education and enhance general image of the village. The first steps has been already done with granting the area with the status of Protected Natural Monument, establishment of the 286 hectares of Geopark for tourist visits and foundation of Natural History Museum in 1994 where the most significant findings are exhibited (Zouros et al. 2000). Still, further development of sustainable strategies and promotion of the place is required to rouse the interest of potential clients to this place. The principal key recommendation for realization of such plans is the adoption of “European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas” (ECSTPA).
The process of Charter certification is the strong management tool for implementation of sustainable tourism practices in protected areas. It becomes possible through the requirements to attain the goals of 5 year sustainable development strategy and fulfillment of corresponding action plan as well as stakeholder forum with participation of gateway communities. The involvement of locals is the crucial point which allows to keep people informed and involved in the project with respect to different cultural aspects. Awarding Geopark with the Charter Certificate will bring worldwide recognition, financial support through EU funding, help to gain new experience through exchanging the information with EUROPARK federation (Bahrami et al. 2008). All of these will allow to achieve the compromise between economic growth in the area and environmental protection.
References
Zouros, N., Kontis, V., Seraidis, P. and Kralis, F. 2000. Guide to the Lesvos Petrified Forest Park. Lesvos: Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest.
Lawrance, R. 2001. Where the roads ends. England: Pinpoint Graphics.
Bahrami, S., Hennig, C., Colon, L. and Kohler A. 2008. European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas. The road map towards certification for the Petrified Forest of Lesvos. Assignment for the course SED, IIIEE Lund, Lund University, Sweden.
After spending the whole month at Lesvos the only last destination to visit was Sigri. Have heard about this tiny fishery village in the western coast-line of the island well-known for its picturesque sceneries I cannot even expect that after 3 hours way from Mytilini to Sigri I will get in the Fairyland of wonderfully colorful sunsets, crystal-clear water, beautiful views of the natural harbor where the village located, ancient buildings keeping in their memories thrilling historical events associated with this place and unique natural monument of the petrified forest preserving the remnants of the previous epoch dating back to 20 million years ago. Such unique combination of many interesting features in one place makes Sigri the attractive destination for great variety of tourists either searching for the place with conciliative atmosphere to relax from the noisy every day routine of big cities or those who are fond of exploring new places with interesting history and monuments to learn about.
The natural beauty of this place is magnificent. The hilly terrain with small pretty white houses with red roofs gradually descends to the sky-blue sea. The indented shoreline increases the aesthetical value of the marine scenery. Here, standing under the rays of caressing sun, feeling the soft wafts of fresh salty wind and hearing the rhythmical lapping of the waves someone start to feel oneself free from everyday worries, full of positive emotions and energy, and so close to nature. The sunset is another thing to mention. Starting with rich colors of yellow and orange it is replaced with soft tints of rose and purple when the sun has already disappeared from the scene. The view is really charming. No wonder this place is worth visiting to enjoy nature and obtain peace of mind.
The place is also interesting from the historical perspective. The earlier settlements appeared here dated back to the first millennium AD but were demolished by Saracens and later Turks invasions. The recent history of the village started in the middle of the 18th century with establishment of the present castle by Turks who had considered the natural harbor of the village the best strategic place for the fortress location. The remnants of the castle as well as the church of Agia Triada which was built in the period of Turkish occupation in 1870 and originally was the mosque are located in the center of the village and constitute the archeological, cultural and architectural heritage of the that times. Moreover, located in the surroundings Ypsilou and Perivoli Monastries (14km far) as well as Zoodochos Pigi church in the rocks at Faneromeni beach (3km far) are also very attractive sights for tourist visits (Lawrance 2001).
The petrified forest is another unique place in the surroundings of Sigri. It covers an area of 150,000 acres (Lawrance 2001) with the similar specimens of petrified trunks existing only in Arizona and Utah. Due to intensive volcanic eruptions in the region around 20 million years ago the pyroclastic materials covered existed vegetation and protected it from the external conditions while the presence of the silica rich fluids favored the process of petrification and led to the replacement of organic material into inorganic. Due to soil erosion in the recent times the hidden trees with root systems, branches, leaves and fruits appeared to be on the surface presenting the perfectly conserved data about flora and climate in the Aegean region 20 million years ago. The most impressive fact that increases the scientific value of the forest is that an entire ecosystem has been remained intact in their natural location. The biggest tree trunks rich up to 20 meters in height and about 3 meters in diameter. (Zouros et al. 2000) The paleontological, geological and environmental uniqueness of the forest makes it an attractive destination for tourists.
Thus, according to the peculiar combinations of before mentioned natural and historical characteristics Sigri has a good potential for the development of tourism. However taking into account the small scale and therefore limiting carrying capacity of the village and the fragility of the petrified forest area and present ecosystems the tourist activities should be developed in the sustainable way to protect, preserve and promote this unique place of our planet.
The priority for development in the region should be given for creation of protected area of petrified forest designated for sustainable tourism. Bringing financial support to the locals it will at the same time contribute to the further scientific investigations, support environmental education and enhance general image of the village. The first steps has been already done with granting the area with the status of Protected Natural Monument, establishment of the 286 hectares of Geopark for tourist visits and foundation of Natural History Museum in 1994 where the most significant findings are exhibited (Zouros et al. 2000). Still, further development of sustainable strategies and promotion of the place is required to rouse the interest of potential clients to this place. The principal key recommendation for realization of such plans is the adoption of “European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas” (ECSTPA).
The process of Charter certification is the strong management tool for implementation of sustainable tourism practices in protected areas. It becomes possible through the requirements to attain the goals of 5 year sustainable development strategy and fulfillment of corresponding action plan as well as stakeholder forum with participation of gateway communities. The involvement of locals is the crucial point which allows to keep people informed and involved in the project with respect to different cultural aspects. Awarding Geopark with the Charter Certificate will bring worldwide recognition, financial support through EU funding, help to gain new experience through exchanging the information with EUROPARK federation (Bahrami et al. 2008). All of these will allow to achieve the compromise between economic growth in the area and environmental protection.
References
Zouros, N., Kontis, V., Seraidis, P. and Kralis, F. 2000. Guide to the Lesvos Petrified Forest Park. Lesvos: Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest.
Lawrance, R. 2001. Where the roads ends. England: Pinpoint Graphics.
Bahrami, S., Hennig, C., Colon, L. and Kohler A. 2008. European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas. The road map towards certification for the Petrified Forest of Lesvos. Assignment for the course SED, IIIEE Lund, Lund University, Sweden.
SIGRI: five reasons why it was an unforgettable experience
Sigri can simply be described as captivating for a number of reasons. First, It has an interesting history that can be traced to the Ottoman occupation of the town. Second, Sigri boasts of a unique natural feature that is, the Petrified Forest, one of the very few in the world. Third, the beaches are marvelous. Fourth, the food in Sigri is delicious. Fifth but not least the people of Sigri are warm and friendly. These are just but five of the reasons why Sigri is worth a visit.
During our visit to Sigri, one of the first stops was to view the Turkish castle built by Sultan Mehmet during Ottoman occupation of the village. From the site of the castle visitors get a good view of the village and the surrounding sea. Another Historical building is the Church of Agia Triada, which was once a mosque but is now a Greek orthodox church. It was an uplifting experience to attend one of the church services to witnessing a typical greek orthodox service
The Petrified Forest in Sigri is a protected natural monument. The forest came to be after a volcanic eruption million of years ago, which buried trees thereby petrifying them into stone. Any one interested in visiting the forest should first visit the Museum of natural history.
A visit to the museum will enable visitors understand better the history of the petrified forest.
The beaches are particularly inviting, notable is the Faneromeni beach, which is not only beautiful, but also remote. Faneromeni offers the beach lovers the privacy to enjoy their sunbathing. Although the beach is a bit far from village, one will not be disappointed; it was definitely worth the one hour or so walk we took to get there.
From the restaurants in the town, visitors get the chance to sample and enjoy the delicious Greek food. We enjoyed and indulged in the fresh sea food.
Above all, our stay in Sigri was great because of the friendliness of the Sigri residents. They welcomed forty foreign students who invaded their town for four days and we all felt at home there.
During our visit to Sigri, one of the first stops was to view the Turkish castle built by Sultan Mehmet during Ottoman occupation of the village. From the site of the castle visitors get a good view of the village and the surrounding sea. Another Historical building is the Church of Agia Triada, which was once a mosque but is now a Greek orthodox church. It was an uplifting experience to attend one of the church services to witnessing a typical greek orthodox service
The Petrified Forest in Sigri is a protected natural monument. The forest came to be after a volcanic eruption million of years ago, which buried trees thereby petrifying them into stone. Any one interested in visiting the forest should first visit the Museum of natural history.
A visit to the museum will enable visitors understand better the history of the petrified forest.
The beaches are particularly inviting, notable is the Faneromeni beach, which is not only beautiful, but also remote. Faneromeni offers the beach lovers the privacy to enjoy their sunbathing. Although the beach is a bit far from village, one will not be disappointed; it was definitely worth the one hour or so walk we took to get there.
From the restaurants in the town, visitors get the chance to sample and enjoy the delicious Greek food. We enjoyed and indulged in the fresh sea food.
Above all, our stay in Sigri was great because of the friendliness of the Sigri residents. They welcomed forty foreign students who invaded their town for four days and we all felt at home there.
Παρασκευή 9 Ιανουαρίου 2009
Sea, sweat and sun: walking the Western Lesvos trails
By Anne-Claire Loftus
July 2008
Western Lesvos’ volcanic landscape provides ideal walking territory: it is sparsely populated, for those seeking solitude, rocky and hilly, for those seeking challenges, and contains cultural, historical and natural areas of interest, for those seeking a complete holiday experience. Because of Lesvos Island’s small scale, it is hiking at a manageable scale, allowing walkers to end tiring days by sampling local food and hospitality in small idyllic villages.
The development and promotion of Lesvos as a prime walking destination would have many advantages for the island’s economy, as it would encourage the kind of tourism which benefits locals and the environment the most. Indeed, walkers would not come as part of package holidays, which see most of the revenue accruing to foreign tour companies, but instead make their own travel and accommodation arrangements. Also, walkers would contribute to the local economy by providing funds for the maintenance of museums, monasteries or national parks.
While western Lesvos is presently patronized by a small number of walkers, efforts should be made to improve the region’s hiking potential, if it is to become a more widely-known hiking destination.
At Mytilini Airport’s departure lounge, two very different types of British tourists can be spotted. The first group is generally of a deep pink colour, often dressed in white in order to highlight their “tan” when they return to rain-sodden England, and has spent a packaged week in one of Lesvos’ tourist resorts. The second group is perhaps less conspicuous, but can be identified by their outdoor clothing and equipment, from brands such as Lowe Alpine or The North Face. This particular kind of British tourist measures holiday enjoyment in kilometres walked, not in cocktails guzzled or skin tone increments. However, the British walker is not necessarily an ascetic, ending a day’s hike with a meal of crackers and tea, and camping out underneath the stars. Instead, they are usually middle-aged, and accustomed to a certain level of comfort; for them, the day’s exertion is likely to be ended by a nice dinner and a comfortable night’s sleep in local accommodation.
This second group should be the target demographic for western Lesvos tourism, not only because they generate the most money for the local economy, but also because their presence could be encouraged as part of a wider sustainable tourism initiative for the island. For example, walkers are more likely to come to Lesvos in mid-season, not only because they wish to avoid the summer tourists, but also because the weather is more conducive to hiking, and as this when Lesvos’ migrating birds can be observed. Mid-season tourism is precisely the kind of tourism Lesvos should encourage, as it spreads the burden placed on the island’s resources (chief among these being water) throughout the year.
Work is needed to increase the attractiveness of Lesvos’ walking trails. For starters, Lesvos should develop a clearly signposted island-wide network of trails. Also, western Lesvos in particular should take advantage of the rich cultural and natural history of the area, by creating more themed trails such as the ‘Lava trail’ illustrated below; trails could for example link the region’s monasteries and churches, or its natural attractions such as beaches and petrified forest. Finally, Lesvos could also increase the appeal of activities complementary to hiking, by for example restoring and promoting the island’s many natural hot springs, where walkers could relax after a hard day’s walk. This information could be detailed in a walking book, of the type which is very popular with British walkers: these books, such as Lonely Planet’s ‘Walking in’ series, give information not only about trails (directions, distances etc…) but also about food and accommodation; this would appeal to the less adventurous tourist, who likes to plan things out before a trip.
Ultimately, one could envisage a sustainable future for Lesvos, in which tourists could play a role, coming to enjoy the scenery as well as the local culture, cooperative agricultural units, local produce and handicraft. The people of Lesvos and the island as a whole would benefit from this move away from packaged tours, which leave little behind other than empty sunscreen bottles.
Sustainable Sigri - Is ‘Small is Beautiful’ an answer?
By Faikham Harnnarong
Sitting on top of the Turkish castle ruin above Sigri, absorbed by the bright silver moon shining over the midst of the Mediterranean, that night, I wonder how long has this been going on. That people have fled here, settled here, in this dry yet fertile land. And how long will it continue to be, this peaceful place where people come to seek refuge. Sigri is a small fisher man village at the furthest west of Lesvos Island. I arrived in late June, wanting to find out what kind of ‘sustainable place’ Sigri wants to and can be. In search for the answer, I met two artists who decided to settle, more or less, here and agreed that it is a perfect place to live in combination of peace and work. Of course I have not found the exact answer, since development direction depends on the decisions of the people of Sigri themselves. I have looked from the eyes of an outsider, and these two artists as well are not locals - but the locals should also hear what other people think about them and their place. This is what I try to reflect in this article.
After some 20 years in Bangkok, almost a year in Budapest, and a month in Mytilene, my impression of Sigri is, of course, that it is very small, but a perfect place to escape from the bustling city life. As many people say, it has a lot to offer - beautiful nature within reach, peaceful beaches with bright blue-green Mediterranean, fresh food, unique stories (histories) to stir my fascination. The most impressive thing, local people are so friendly, perhaps characteristic of people in small villages anywhere, and make me feel comfortable enough to start learning them, their cultures. What more will you ask from a restful holiday? And so this phrase came up in my mind ‘small is beautiful’.
Michalis, the silversmith, has settled here for more than 15 years. Induced into ancient copper works at his teenage by a monk in Mytilene, he continued learning jewelry making, started working with silver, in Athens, then Amsterdam for some years - full of life. At the end of his 30s, he decided to come back to his origin, Lesvos, and Sigri is where he has chosen. Attracted, like me, by the arid yet very strong landscape, his works reflect the simple but powerful nature of the surroundings. He thinks Sigri has passed its tourism golden age, when busses of tourists flooded the village even during the week. These days, it attracts those who look for quiet life, Greeks or foreigners alike. Many of them come back years after years, some decided to settle here, in this family-feeling community. He is one of them. Entering his small shop in the village, not all tourists go for his unique works; many go for quick-cheap things, mass productions he curates from Athens. But once they notice pieces of his precious hand-mades, getting to know the motivation behind and the story of how they are made, like me, people are tempted, and of course willing to pay more. This is perhaps another general characteristic of human - the search for uniqueness and identity.
Joanna, a Polish origin artist/curator, with her Swedish husband who is a professor and consultant on environmental management and sustainable tourism, decided that Sigri is their ‘end of the road’ when they will retire. After traveling through the world, writing several successful guidebooks on France, Germany, and Denmark - variety of beauties in different seasons here attracts her. ‘Summer is burning dry, but the light and the air give very strong atmosphere. Then spring comes, green leaves and colourful flowers blooming, it is such a beautiful picture.’ She now manages her own gallery in Sweden but still paints sometimes and continues writing different things. Sitting relaxed in her Greek house she said Sigri is a perfect place to combine pleasure and work - it can attract a lot of artists. She dreams of creating an artist community here.
So, what kind of ‘sustainable’ place it wants to be? Ones need to answer what they have and want to maintain. What are unique in their place - be it the charming fisherman way of life, beautiful beaches and nature, archeological sites, or the Petrified Forest. If Sigri has decided that tourism will be its main source of income, it has to determine what type of people it wants to attract, and what are these people looking for when they come. I have given examples of what I, Michalis, and Joanna look at Sigri - something along the line of ‘small is beautiful and peaceful’. What is clear to me - those who come here do not look for much of the ‘entertainment’ night life as they can find that in Mytilene, Eressos, Petra, to name a few in the island. For sustainable way of development, it also has to answer what and how the community can really benefit in the long term - as the village has already experienced rise and fall of tourisms for the past few decades. Perhaps, the most important ingredient of success is mutual understanding and consensus from the whole community. Of course, the answers lie with the people of Sigri.
Sitting on top of the Turkish castle ruin above Sigri, absorbed by the bright silver moon shining over the midst of the Mediterranean, that night, I wonder how long has this been going on. That people have fled here, settled here, in this dry yet fertile land. And how long will it continue to be, this peaceful place where people come to seek refuge. Sigri is a small fisher man village at the furthest west of Lesvos Island. I arrived in late June, wanting to find out what kind of ‘sustainable place’ Sigri wants to and can be. In search for the answer, I met two artists who decided to settle, more or less, here and agreed that it is a perfect place to live in combination of peace and work. Of course I have not found the exact answer, since development direction depends on the decisions of the people of Sigri themselves. I have looked from the eyes of an outsider, and these two artists as well are not locals - but the locals should also hear what other people think about them and their place. This is what I try to reflect in this article.
After some 20 years in Bangkok, almost a year in Budapest, and a month in Mytilene, my impression of Sigri is, of course, that it is very small, but a perfect place to escape from the bustling city life. As many people say, it has a lot to offer - beautiful nature within reach, peaceful beaches with bright blue-green Mediterranean, fresh food, unique stories (histories) to stir my fascination. The most impressive thing, local people are so friendly, perhaps characteristic of people in small villages anywhere, and make me feel comfortable enough to start learning them, their cultures. What more will you ask from a restful holiday? And so this phrase came up in my mind ‘small is beautiful’.
Michalis, the silversmith, has settled here for more than 15 years. Induced into ancient copper works at his teenage by a monk in Mytilene, he continued learning jewelry making, started working with silver, in Athens, then Amsterdam for some years - full of life. At the end of his 30s, he decided to come back to his origin, Lesvos, and Sigri is where he has chosen. Attracted, like me, by the arid yet very strong landscape, his works reflect the simple but powerful nature of the surroundings. He thinks Sigri has passed its tourism golden age, when busses of tourists flooded the village even during the week. These days, it attracts those who look for quiet life, Greeks or foreigners alike. Many of them come back years after years, some decided to settle here, in this family-feeling community. He is one of them. Entering his small shop in the village, not all tourists go for his unique works; many go for quick-cheap things, mass productions he curates from Athens. But once they notice pieces of his precious hand-mades, getting to know the motivation behind and the story of how they are made, like me, people are tempted, and of course willing to pay more. This is perhaps another general characteristic of human - the search for uniqueness and identity.
Joanna, a Polish origin artist/curator, with her Swedish husband who is a professor and consultant on environmental management and sustainable tourism, decided that Sigri is their ‘end of the road’ when they will retire. After traveling through the world, writing several successful guidebooks on France, Germany, and Denmark - variety of beauties in different seasons here attracts her. ‘Summer is burning dry, but the light and the air give very strong atmosphere. Then spring comes, green leaves and colourful flowers blooming, it is such a beautiful picture.’ She now manages her own gallery in Sweden but still paints sometimes and continues writing different things. Sitting relaxed in her Greek house she said Sigri is a perfect place to combine pleasure and work - it can attract a lot of artists. She dreams of creating an artist community here.
So, what kind of ‘sustainable’ place it wants to be? Ones need to answer what they have and want to maintain. What are unique in their place - be it the charming fisherman way of life, beautiful beaches and nature, archeological sites, or the Petrified Forest. If Sigri has decided that tourism will be its main source of income, it has to determine what type of people it wants to attract, and what are these people looking for when they come. I have given examples of what I, Michalis, and Joanna look at Sigri - something along the line of ‘small is beautiful and peaceful’. What is clear to me - those who come here do not look for much of the ‘entertainment’ night life as they can find that in Mytilene, Eressos, Petra, to name a few in the island. For sustainable way of development, it also has to answer what and how the community can really benefit in the long term - as the village has already experienced rise and fall of tourisms for the past few decades. Perhaps, the most important ingredient of success is mutual understanding and consensus from the whole community. Of course, the answers lie with the people of Sigri.
Sigri: Heaven for the Sanctified.
By Elena Kholodova
If someone would like to make a top-list of tourist resorts that are the most popular in Russia, a number of quite recognizable names would be mentioned. Antalia, Hurgada, Marbella, Dubrovnik, Goa – these are the places that have been chosen by my nationals because of prices, location, exotics and availability, and which are still attractive for the most of wishful office workers who are looking forward to a long-awaited holiday. As hypnotized zombie owners of big and small fortune, oligarchs and house-keepers keep on following the habitual procedure which is invariably leading to the well-known journey. By escaping the life full of every day happenings, jitters and rush people want to have great confidence in their spare time: known hotel, expected service, predictable climate. Just half a year ago I was in the list of these individuals. Before June 2008, before I have got to know Sigri… Those who are fed up with routine and traditional holidays full of Russian native speakers, sticking behavior of service stuff towards Russian girls accompanied with abusive “Natasha”, who are looking for silence, calm and tasty colorful tourist life, those are strongly recommended to visit Sigri.
Please, do not understand me wrong and do not enroll me in a necrophil or a suicide club, but Sigri is actually a place to die. I mean, this is the place where everyone can “rest in peace”. Because, without any philosophical insinuation, only birth and death are the states in which you can feel absolutely free of your past and future. So, let me introduce you Sigri, the place where you have a happy chance to be reborn. What makes Sigri so unique? What makes it worth visiting and coming back or maybe staying for a longer time? Once I asked Kostas, the owner of one of the coastal restaurants “What is Sigri?”. The answer was unexpected: “Sigri is me”. And he was right as nobody else!
Sigri as a chameleon takes on the only colors and emotions that you need and just you can understand. Sigri is open for your wishes and it is waiting for the moment to satisfy your needs. You want three “S” of good holiday, the sun, sand and the sea, and you will find them in Sigri. Are you adherent of a peaceful and organized rest with chaise lounge and cocktail? You are very welcome to a public beach. Are you dreaming about wild and pristine environment? The savage beaches, like Faneromeni, covered with volcanic sand and calling you with turquoise sea are waiting for you. Do you want to stay in silence and sense the harmony? The varied landscape offers you plenty of places where you can easily run into nature. And this is about everything. The fancies of ancient history looking for archeological and architectural sites can satisfy their curiosity visiting the neighboring monastery and the Turkish Castle that has been protecting the harbor since 1746. Gluttons and tourists with sweet tooth will be beloved guests in one of the small restaurants around Sigri offering well-known lobsters, fresh fish and sea-food, as well as traditional Greek dishes. An interesting thing is that if the food that you are dying for is not in the menu today, the owner will be happy to cook it another day. Such personal orders are not the lot of elite but the luxury available for anyone. More of that, the Museum of Natural History opened on the top of hill hosts a part of petrified forest where you can see the natural works of art that are at the same time the bearers of information about the Earth’s history and evolution. In addition to the mentioned above Sigri is absolutely safe. There are not so many resorts around the Europe where you can feel so secure. Due to not numerous population of the village everybody knows each other. Doors can be left opened, children do not have to be strongly cared, belongings can be unattended.
Sigri is a piece of heaven designed for connoisseurs, not for mass consumption. Indeed, promotion of the uniqueness and support of the habitual life-style are the keys and pledge for saving the features of this place. When you visit this place, let it pass through you. And couple of weeks later coming back to your city answering the question of your friends “What is Sigri?” you will say “Sigri is me!”
If someone would like to make a top-list of tourist resorts that are the most popular in Russia, a number of quite recognizable names would be mentioned. Antalia, Hurgada, Marbella, Dubrovnik, Goa – these are the places that have been chosen by my nationals because of prices, location, exotics and availability, and which are still attractive for the most of wishful office workers who are looking forward to a long-awaited holiday. As hypnotized zombie owners of big and small fortune, oligarchs and house-keepers keep on following the habitual procedure which is invariably leading to the well-known journey. By escaping the life full of every day happenings, jitters and rush people want to have great confidence in their spare time: known hotel, expected service, predictable climate. Just half a year ago I was in the list of these individuals. Before June 2008, before I have got to know Sigri… Those who are fed up with routine and traditional holidays full of Russian native speakers, sticking behavior of service stuff towards Russian girls accompanied with abusive “Natasha”, who are looking for silence, calm and tasty colorful tourist life, those are strongly recommended to visit Sigri.
Please, do not understand me wrong and do not enroll me in a necrophil or a suicide club, but Sigri is actually a place to die. I mean, this is the place where everyone can “rest in peace”. Because, without any philosophical insinuation, only birth and death are the states in which you can feel absolutely free of your past and future. So, let me introduce you Sigri, the place where you have a happy chance to be reborn. What makes Sigri so unique? What makes it worth visiting and coming back or maybe staying for a longer time? Once I asked Kostas, the owner of one of the coastal restaurants “What is Sigri?”. The answer was unexpected: “Sigri is me”. And he was right as nobody else!
Sigri as a chameleon takes on the only colors and emotions that you need and just you can understand. Sigri is open for your wishes and it is waiting for the moment to satisfy your needs. You want three “S” of good holiday, the sun, sand and the sea, and you will find them in Sigri. Are you adherent of a peaceful and organized rest with chaise lounge and cocktail? You are very welcome to a public beach. Are you dreaming about wild and pristine environment? The savage beaches, like Faneromeni, covered with volcanic sand and calling you with turquoise sea are waiting for you. Do you want to stay in silence and sense the harmony? The varied landscape offers you plenty of places where you can easily run into nature. And this is about everything. The fancies of ancient history looking for archeological and architectural sites can satisfy their curiosity visiting the neighboring monastery and the Turkish Castle that has been protecting the harbor since 1746. Gluttons and tourists with sweet tooth will be beloved guests in one of the small restaurants around Sigri offering well-known lobsters, fresh fish and sea-food, as well as traditional Greek dishes. An interesting thing is that if the food that you are dying for is not in the menu today, the owner will be happy to cook it another day. Such personal orders are not the lot of elite but the luxury available for anyone. More of that, the Museum of Natural History opened on the top of hill hosts a part of petrified forest where you can see the natural works of art that are at the same time the bearers of information about the Earth’s history and evolution. In addition to the mentioned above Sigri is absolutely safe. There are not so many resorts around the Europe where you can feel so secure. Due to not numerous population of the village everybody knows each other. Doors can be left opened, children do not have to be strongly cared, belongings can be unattended.
Sigri is a piece of heaven designed for connoisseurs, not for mass consumption. Indeed, promotion of the uniqueness and support of the habitual life-style are the keys and pledge for saving the features of this place. When you visit this place, let it pass through you. And couple of weeks later coming back to your city answering the question of your friends “What is Sigri?” you will say “Sigri is me!”
Lonely Queen of the Coast
Mediterranean Monk Seal on the coast of SigriBy Dalia Bastytė
A female seal living in the cave of Nissiopi does not experience a lot of love from local fishermen. Currently their attitude towards the seal could be called only tolerance. Only Michalis, a silversmith of Sigri, feels that the seal is like a queen of the coast. However, Mediterranean Monk Seals deserve a lot of sympathies around the world. Being one of the most endangered mammals of the world it attracts a lot of attention too.
Once upon a time Mediterranean Monk Seals were abundant in the Mediterranean, Marmora and Black seas. The species also frequented the Atlantic coast of Africa. The seals were swimming in these unpolluted and by ship traffic undisturbed seas, catching fish and cephalopods which were not over fished by humans and breeding on the sandy beaches which were not overcrowded yet. The seals were protected by Poseidon and Apollo because of their great love for sea and sun, sailors and fishermen were considering the seals as a good omen, moreover, the head of the seal was engraved on one of the first ever coins (around 500 BC).
It was some time ago. Already during Roman era monk seals were either dramatically reduced or extirpated by intensive exploitation. Furthermore, from the sandy beaches which these social animals had inhabited they were maid to hide in the inaccessible caves. The population was fragmented. Their habitats were deteriorated and food resources were caught by humans. The species was described as „rare“ by science in 1779, however, the seals were still collected for zoos and museums until early 20th century when wide range extinctions became apparent.
Now there are less than 500 animals of this species in the world left. They are highly protected by international organisations. They also are protected by the legislation of the countries they inhabit. A lot of efforts, mainly by international organisations, are put to increase the number of these beautiful animals and to revive the species. As the ecologists of Zakynthos say “The seals have a prestigious history but let's hope that soon the species is not history too.”[1]
One of these interesting, however, very rare and sensitive animals lives on the coast of Sigri. This seal hides in a cave of a small and remote island of Nissiopi which is right in front of the Sigri harbour. As Aristotle described there used to be a lot of seals in Lesbos. Now there are just few. Most probably a lot of them were sun basking on the beaches around Sigri in the times of Aristotle. However, now the female seal is alone. And she does not come on the beach anymore.
Nevertheless the need to hide from people and disrupted social structure of its herd, the seal lives its life. It distinguishes the local ships and appears in the sight of people when it wants. As Michalis, a silversmith of Sigri, noticed: the seal emerges by his boat when he is alone. Michalis is sure, that the seal recognises him. The freedom of the seal gives the impression that she is like the queen of the sea.
[1] http://www.e-zakynthos.com/ecology/zante.zakynthos.monachus.monachus.seal.php
Money tours with tourists?
One morning I was calculating my spending in Sigri with breakfast beside me. I was trying to analyze tourist expenditure and its linkage with local economy in the touristic destination like Sigri. Suddenly my eyes stuck on the food items on breakfast table: bread, butter, jam, yoghurt, omelet and fruit juice, I noticed many of those products were not from Sigri but imported from other places. I then told myself, “wait a minute! may be the money that tourist expends does not necessarily retain in the place of destination, and there could be leakages.”
Retaining the money in the place of destination requires careful attention and planning from the local government and local service providers. For example, two-third of the food items in the breakfast table was imported despite they could have been produced in Sigri. Supporting my idea Professor Mikael Backman informs there are nearly thirteen women cooperatives already producing such local produces. He further adds there are initiatives to promote these cooperatives, for instance, catering services for any conferences at the local Petrified Forest Museum are contracted to these local women’s cooperative. Similarly, local produces such as jewelry, olive oils, olive soaps etc are displayed in the museum shops. However, there is a need to extend and strengthen such local entrepreneurial chains with the local restaurant/hotel owners. Sigri is losing certain chunk of its tourism income as “import leakage” especially for importing food. However, there are no leakages of money by external tour operators, as there are no external tour operators in existence. A local restaurant owner has different take in this issue. He feels the closure of two tour operators has negatively affected the number of tourist arrival in Sigri. “If there are no tourists, there will be no money at all; forget about its retention or leakage.” He stares at the street and says, “ its empty compared to two years ago there would be so many tourists here on the street.” The local silver shop owner shares the similar feeling, “no tourist means no business, I have been exporting my jewelry to Athens, tourism hardly benefits my business.” Anthony Michael, a regular visitor from Mytilini feels that tourism has been benefiting local economy in Sigri, and a regular inflow of tourist will certainly provide economic benefits to the local and overall local development. He doesn’t feel that there has been significant economic leakage rather sees positive multiplier effect. “Every year I see new restaurants, hotels, shops; an improvement in local development and economy.”
Sure the more number of tourists definitely means more expenditure in the place of destination; nevertheless it is equally important to hold the money by supporting and strengthening local entrepreneurship.
Retaining the money in the place of destination requires careful attention and planning from the local government and local service providers. For example, two-third of the food items in the breakfast table was imported despite they could have been produced in Sigri. Supporting my idea Professor Mikael Backman informs there are nearly thirteen women cooperatives already producing such local produces. He further adds there are initiatives to promote these cooperatives, for instance, catering services for any conferences at the local Petrified Forest Museum are contracted to these local women’s cooperative. Similarly, local produces such as jewelry, olive oils, olive soaps etc are displayed in the museum shops. However, there is a need to extend and strengthen such local entrepreneurial chains with the local restaurant/hotel owners. Sigri is losing certain chunk of its tourism income as “import leakage” especially for importing food. However, there are no leakages of money by external tour operators, as there are no external tour operators in existence. A local restaurant owner has different take in this issue. He feels the closure of two tour operators has negatively affected the number of tourist arrival in Sigri. “If there are no tourists, there will be no money at all; forget about its retention or leakage.” He stares at the street and says, “ its empty compared to two years ago there would be so many tourists here on the street.” The local silver shop owner shares the similar feeling, “no tourist means no business, I have been exporting my jewelry to Athens, tourism hardly benefits my business.” Anthony Michael, a regular visitor from Mytilini feels that tourism has been benefiting local economy in Sigri, and a regular inflow of tourist will certainly provide economic benefits to the local and overall local development. He doesn’t feel that there has been significant economic leakage rather sees positive multiplier effect. “Every year I see new restaurants, hotels, shops; an improvement in local development and economy.”
Sure the more number of tourists definitely means more expenditure in the place of destination; nevertheless it is equally important to hold the money by supporting and strengthening local entrepreneurship.
Locals social behavior : Matter left untouched
By Neha Mittal
As far as I have learnt about sustainable tourism it means tourism development giving due respect to environment, cultural resources and the host community but in my opinion the social behavior and responsibilities of local people also plays an important role in driving tourists and making tourism a sustainable industry for that particular place. Locals can make a place worth traveling, exploring and memorable forever.
“Sigri” in one such place which at first site touched my heart. Initial days of exploring this village added pages to my memory book as well. The small village with simple yet refreshing and impressive artistic architecture, pebbly streets and special food made me to categorize it as one of the best places I would love to visit again in my life. But one incident bashed this thought and my opinion forever. Now I don’t want to visit this beautiful small “Sigri” again in my life though I had time of life with my best friends there.
Incident took place one evening while some of us were having dinner and enjoying soccer match at “Australian Bar” at village square, the one and the only bar with internet connection in that little village. I was there as well. Suddenly a man in his early 50’s having dinner at the same restaurant with his friends called me, as a matter of respect and with warm feeling for the locals I went to his table and greeted him. He asked me to bring my chair as well and I did that. Just after few seconds he said that “he likes girls with dark hair and dark eyes and that’s what he liked in me as well and he is having big villa in this village”. He than asked me “if I can spend one night with him”. That was not only unbelievable but ridiculous and unacceptable for me. I got bit angry and I told him that “this not my culture” but giving no value to my words he asked me “if I am virgin or not”. Something that reverberates till now. I felt numb, as I never expected anyone to utter such words.
Since that incident happened I wanted to leave that place as soon as possible. Thus it is not only that tourist owes some responsibility towards the tourist destination and its local community. They do so as well in terms of preserving cultural heritage, following their religious ethics while staying among them, can contribute to the economy by buying local products but the locals social behavior do play a significant role in promoting sustainable tourism. All we remember after visiting new tourist destination is hospitality, cultural values and nature surrounding that place, locals contribute to them significantly. They add to the wide range of experiences one usually have at new place. They are the one who gives you direct impression of the place and tourists come across them almost every time.
Local people should realize that sincere and pleasant hospitality is all they can offer to coming tourists to make their visit memorable forever.
As far as I have learnt about sustainable tourism it means tourism development giving due respect to environment, cultural resources and the host community but in my opinion the social behavior and responsibilities of local people also plays an important role in driving tourists and making tourism a sustainable industry for that particular place. Locals can make a place worth traveling, exploring and memorable forever.
“Sigri” in one such place which at first site touched my heart. Initial days of exploring this village added pages to my memory book as well. The small village with simple yet refreshing and impressive artistic architecture, pebbly streets and special food made me to categorize it as one of the best places I would love to visit again in my life. But one incident bashed this thought and my opinion forever. Now I don’t want to visit this beautiful small “Sigri” again in my life though I had time of life with my best friends there.
Incident took place one evening while some of us were having dinner and enjoying soccer match at “Australian Bar” at village square, the one and the only bar with internet connection in that little village. I was there as well. Suddenly a man in his early 50’s having dinner at the same restaurant with his friends called me, as a matter of respect and with warm feeling for the locals I went to his table and greeted him. He asked me to bring my chair as well and I did that. Just after few seconds he said that “he likes girls with dark hair and dark eyes and that’s what he liked in me as well and he is having big villa in this village”. He than asked me “if I can spend one night with him”. That was not only unbelievable but ridiculous and unacceptable for me. I got bit angry and I told him that “this not my culture” but giving no value to my words he asked me “if I am virgin or not”. Something that reverberates till now. I felt numb, as I never expected anyone to utter such words.
Since that incident happened I wanted to leave that place as soon as possible. Thus it is not only that tourist owes some responsibility towards the tourist destination and its local community. They do so as well in terms of preserving cultural heritage, following their religious ethics while staying among them, can contribute to the economy by buying local products but the locals social behavior do play a significant role in promoting sustainable tourism. All we remember after visiting new tourist destination is hospitality, cultural values and nature surrounding that place, locals contribute to them significantly. They add to the wide range of experiences one usually have at new place. They are the one who gives you direct impression of the place and tourists come across them almost every time.
Local people should realize that sincere and pleasant hospitality is all they can offer to coming tourists to make their visit memorable forever.
Sigri – small fisherman village far from mass tourism
By Keiji Uehara
Sigri is a tiny fisherman village which has only 300 habitats, which is almost same number as people who are sitting in the library where I am now, but there are many attractive factors as tourist place; blue, clean, and transparent sea, sandy beach, petrified forests, white houses with red roofs which are the perfect contrast with the blue sky and sea, historical Turkish castle, fresh seafood, and so on. The climate is also nice; the weather is mostly fine and the temperature is hot in the summer but it is also windy enough to surf and not to need the air conditioner in the buildings. It is also very quiet and you sometimes can only hear the sound of wave. I visited there in June, so it might not be the peak of tourist season, but not that many tourists were there and it attracted me more. When I went to one of the sandy beaches, which was located just next to the center, only local people were swimming there. Maybe in July and in August, this small fisherman village would be full of tourists, but I did not see too many tourist accommodations there. What I want to say is that Sigri is far from mass tourism, which is usually unsustainable and distracts local community and environment. That does not mean that Sigri is not enough attractive to bring tourists but not many people know about this place. Although Lesvos is the third largest island in Greece, it is not that famous as touristy place. I am from Japan and hundreds of information about Greece is available both on the internet on books, but not about Lesvos. Only “Lonely Planet” and some other English guidebooks have its information but not in detail and very little about Sigri. It might not be special place for tourists who are looking for the gorgeous beach resort or very special buildings and landscape like Molivos, but it is not a problem because the most attractive things in Sigri are serene hush with beautiful sandy beaches and local seafood and internationally unique petrified forests, and the number limitation of visitors is essential to sustain them. For that, it should not increase the number of accommodation facilities but improve the service quality for limited tourists and locals and maintain the natural environment.
Sigri is a tiny fisherman village which has only 300 habitats, which is almost same number as people who are sitting in the library where I am now, but there are many attractive factors as tourist place; blue, clean, and transparent sea, sandy beach, petrified forests, white houses with red roofs which are the perfect contrast with the blue sky and sea, historical Turkish castle, fresh seafood, and so on. The climate is also nice; the weather is mostly fine and the temperature is hot in the summer but it is also windy enough to surf and not to need the air conditioner in the buildings. It is also very quiet and you sometimes can only hear the sound of wave. I visited there in June, so it might not be the peak of tourist season, but not that many tourists were there and it attracted me more. When I went to one of the sandy beaches, which was located just next to the center, only local people were swimming there. Maybe in July and in August, this small fisherman village would be full of tourists, but I did not see too many tourist accommodations there. What I want to say is that Sigri is far from mass tourism, which is usually unsustainable and distracts local community and environment. That does not mean that Sigri is not enough attractive to bring tourists but not many people know about this place. Although Lesvos is the third largest island in Greece, it is not that famous as touristy place. I am from Japan and hundreds of information about Greece is available both on the internet on books, but not about Lesvos. Only “Lonely Planet” and some other English guidebooks have its information but not in detail and very little about Sigri. It might not be special place for tourists who are looking for the gorgeous beach resort or very special buildings and landscape like Molivos, but it is not a problem because the most attractive things in Sigri are serene hush with beautiful sandy beaches and local seafood and internationally unique petrified forests, and the number limitation of visitors is essential to sustain them. For that, it should not increase the number of accommodation facilities but improve the service quality for limited tourists and locals and maintain the natural environment.
Hidden workers of Sigri, Lesvos, Greece
By Marsha Mason
When I took my first breath outside of the hive I was mesmerized. With its vast number of hills and valleys the flowering scrubs (plant) along the way unfold a beauty that cannot be compared or captured by paint or photograph. The flowing plants can give its praise to its hidden workers. As Paul the Apostle wrote in I Corinthians 3 versus 6 (KJV) I planted Apollos watered but God gave the increase; this is also applicable to the flowing beauty of Sigri. The insects pollinate the plants and churn the soil, the wind scatter the seeds and the increase and beauty comes from God. Not many know about the intricate work performed by us the insect population. However, it is the citizens of Sigri who for years have been accustomed to seeing the insects, even being bitten or enduring other experiences of having the number of insects that are drawn to the mere beauty of the plants and have been drafted to work in the fields. The citizens of Sigri are the ones who best enjoy the beauty of the plants every year as the sparse Mediterranean hills and valleys of the Petrified Forest come alive. It is the citizens who also have the power to ensure that this all but important community/populace is protected to bring the beauty and joy to the hills and valleys of Sigri and themselves.
The day I took my first flight I saw fellow insects hard at work. Some busy pruning plants (like caterpillars, ants and grasshoppers); some helping in the reproduction by taking nectar and pollen from one plant to the other (like bees and butterflies); some feeding on remain of animals and plants (cricket and worms) and some controlling the population of other insects (like dragonflies wasps and spiders). I was excited to know that I am a part of a team that will ensure that the balance remains in nature and the beauty that make human happy will continue. I say some insects frolicking, singing love songs to mates to ensure that we have a population who will continue the work. I must say citizens of Sigri do things of benefit to nature and us like the solar power on every house and the houses built to utilise sun and wind. Then I saw something that made me afraid terrified and sad. The field were littered with garbage, the waterway black from sewerage and other pollution some homes had poised set for unsuspecting fellow insects and some swat at us. I thought, don’t they know these will harm us and they will not have the lovely plants they have grown accustom to if we are no longer around.
My older brother flew up to me and said don’t be sad. Humans don’t really know much about the insects of Sigri. Some don’t know that we play an important role as pollinators of the many wild flowers of the area. We also borrow the soil allowing vital air and moisture to seep to nourish the plants and also act in the breaking down of the dead leaves and plants. Then he said we need to let the citizens know that they can do much to make our land safe. They can dispose of their garbage in proper bins for the landfill, don’t use poison to kill us but work with us in a friendly way not doing things that cause one insect population to out grow those that control them and ensure that sewage and other waste are treated properly before going into the waterways.
When I took my first breath outside of the hive I was mesmerized. With its vast number of hills and valleys the flowering scrubs (plant) along the way unfold a beauty that cannot be compared or captured by paint or photograph. The flowing plants can give its praise to its hidden workers. As Paul the Apostle wrote in I Corinthians 3 versus 6 (KJV) I planted Apollos watered but God gave the increase; this is also applicable to the flowing beauty of Sigri. The insects pollinate the plants and churn the soil, the wind scatter the seeds and the increase and beauty comes from God. Not many know about the intricate work performed by us the insect population. However, it is the citizens of Sigri who for years have been accustomed to seeing the insects, even being bitten or enduring other experiences of having the number of insects that are drawn to the mere beauty of the plants and have been drafted to work in the fields. The citizens of Sigri are the ones who best enjoy the beauty of the plants every year as the sparse Mediterranean hills and valleys of the Petrified Forest come alive. It is the citizens who also have the power to ensure that this all but important community/populace is protected to bring the beauty and joy to the hills and valleys of Sigri and themselves.
The day I took my first flight I saw fellow insects hard at work. Some busy pruning plants (like caterpillars, ants and grasshoppers); some helping in the reproduction by taking nectar and pollen from one plant to the other (like bees and butterflies); some feeding on remain of animals and plants (cricket and worms) and some controlling the population of other insects (like dragonflies wasps and spiders). I was excited to know that I am a part of a team that will ensure that the balance remains in nature and the beauty that make human happy will continue. I say some insects frolicking, singing love songs to mates to ensure that we have a population who will continue the work. I must say citizens of Sigri do things of benefit to nature and us like the solar power on every house and the houses built to utilise sun and wind. Then I saw something that made me afraid terrified and sad. The field were littered with garbage, the waterway black from sewerage and other pollution some homes had poised set for unsuspecting fellow insects and some swat at us. I thought, don’t they know these will harm us and they will not have the lovely plants they have grown accustom to if we are no longer around.
My older brother flew up to me and said don’t be sad. Humans don’t really know much about the insects of Sigri. Some don’t know that we play an important role as pollinators of the many wild flowers of the area. We also borrow the soil allowing vital air and moisture to seep to nourish the plants and also act in the breaking down of the dead leaves and plants. Then he said we need to let the citizens know that they can do much to make our land safe. They can dispose of their garbage in proper bins for the landfill, don’t use poison to kill us but work with us in a friendly way not doing things that cause one insect population to out grow those that control them and ensure that sewage and other waste are treated properly before going into the waterways.
Sigri - a time capsule
By Silvia CeausuThe Greek island of Lesvos is situated in the northeastern part of the Aegean Sea, off the coast of Anatolia. It was inhabited since the ancient times and has its own place in the Greek early history and literature, being mentioned even in the Homeric epics. The history of the island is a series of conquests, defeats, layers of colonization, migrations and influences that shaped the way of life and culture of the islanders. What is the most important is that this way of life resisted to numerous and long occupations, from that of the Romans to that of the Ottomans.
In the western part of Lesvos lays the small settlement of Sigri which encompasses in its small territory all the symbols of the troubled history of the island. The petrified forest found here and formed due to a volcanic eruption reminds of the geological history of the island. Defining of the past of the people here both as conquerors and conquered is the bay protected by the island of Nissiopi which makes it a perfect harbor and a valuable place for any country with maritime ambitions. Overlooking the village, you can see the old castle which was build by the Turks to protect this harbor and the Ottoman fleet that was kept here. At the north of the village, at the end of the Faneromeni beach there is the small church of Zoedochos built in a cave, in a way the antithesis of the big old Turkish castle. Hidden and peaceful, the church was probably helping people to keep alive their faith, their culture and their hope during the harsh times of occupation. And probably it did a good job as it is proven by the bigger Agia Triada church from the center of the village which was first built as a mosque and then transformed in an orthodox church after Lesvos joined the Greek state. Agia Triada church is a symbol of revival but a revival that was made possible by small acts of resistance like the small Zoedochos cave church.
But the inhabitants themselves are the most interesting part of the Sigri village. They and their lives are also reminding of a lot of things that are lost for many of us: the strong connections they have with their neighbors, with their family from which they most probably inherited their way of making a living. They still eat mostly local food caught by local fishermen or produced by local gardeners, they don’t drive cars everyday because everything in the village is in a walking range. They are still having that traditional lifestyle that is considered by many benign for nature and in harmony with it. This is what makes places like this so fascinating and what attracts here those enjoying a different kind tourism, a more sustainable one. But what would happen if, as we would wish, more and more people would start enjoying this kind of tourism and places like Sigri? If there will be more and more people coming to see such places how will this change them? Would people like those from Sigri have to find new “small churches” to protect their uniqueness in the face of these new modern “conquerors”? I am thinking that those who decided to live here and continue this lifestyle are not that easy to change though.
Adonis, a local bar owner and the editor of the village newsletter, told us how he was amazed by the fact that an important part of the day, we, the master students of an environmental program, staying in Sigri for a week, were sitting in front of our laptops instead of enjoying the rarity and beauty of such a place. Of course, we were all far away from home, wanting to keep the connection with the world beyond Sigri and we are also part of a generation for which internet is, let’s just say, important. But we have to admit that we just have a different kind of life then that of the people from Sigri. Our life could be considered closer to what we would call unsustainable then to that of the people from this Greek village. But it just might be that Sigri is for us the “small church” in which we preserve this benign lifestyle from which we furthered away and we might have to come back to it someday.
In the western part of Lesvos lays the small settlement of Sigri which encompasses in its small territory all the symbols of the troubled history of the island. The petrified forest found here and formed due to a volcanic eruption reminds of the geological history of the island. Defining of the past of the people here both as conquerors and conquered is the bay protected by the island of Nissiopi which makes it a perfect harbor and a valuable place for any country with maritime ambitions. Overlooking the village, you can see the old castle which was build by the Turks to protect this harbor and the Ottoman fleet that was kept here. At the north of the village, at the end of the Faneromeni beach there is the small church of Zoedochos built in a cave, in a way the antithesis of the big old Turkish castle. Hidden and peaceful, the church was probably helping people to keep alive their faith, their culture and their hope during the harsh times of occupation. And probably it did a good job as it is proven by the bigger Agia Triada church from the center of the village which was first built as a mosque and then transformed in an orthodox church after Lesvos joined the Greek state. Agia Triada church is a symbol of revival but a revival that was made possible by small acts of resistance like the small Zoedochos cave church.
But the inhabitants themselves are the most interesting part of the Sigri village. They and their lives are also reminding of a lot of things that are lost for many of us: the strong connections they have with their neighbors, with their family from which they most probably inherited their way of making a living. They still eat mostly local food caught by local fishermen or produced by local gardeners, they don’t drive cars everyday because everything in the village is in a walking range. They are still having that traditional lifestyle that is considered by many benign for nature and in harmony with it. This is what makes places like this so fascinating and what attracts here those enjoying a different kind tourism, a more sustainable one. But what would happen if, as we would wish, more and more people would start enjoying this kind of tourism and places like Sigri? If there will be more and more people coming to see such places how will this change them? Would people like those from Sigri have to find new “small churches” to protect their uniqueness in the face of these new modern “conquerors”? I am thinking that those who decided to live here and continue this lifestyle are not that easy to change though.
Adonis, a local bar owner and the editor of the village newsletter, told us how he was amazed by the fact that an important part of the day, we, the master students of an environmental program, staying in Sigri for a week, were sitting in front of our laptops instead of enjoying the rarity and beauty of such a place. Of course, we were all far away from home, wanting to keep the connection with the world beyond Sigri and we are also part of a generation for which internet is, let’s just say, important. But we have to admit that we just have a different kind of life then that of the people from Sigri. Our life could be considered closer to what we would call unsustainable then to that of the people from this Greek village. But it just might be that Sigri is for us the “small church” in which we preserve this benign lifestyle from which we furthered away and we might have to come back to it someday.
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM: A MYTH OR REALITY
Submitted By: Sonia Chopra
MESPOM 2007-2009
Sustainable tourism is a form of tourism development which utilizes resources in a sustainable way. It respects local culture and tradition. Maintenance of biodiversity, integration of tourism in local and national planning and benefit to local economies are some of the basic principles of the sustainable tourism. According to world tourism organization the tourism will increase double in next 20 years. One of best example of the sustainable tourism is Crete in Greece.
Sustainable tourism includes protecting and promoting natural values. Environmentally aware tourists favor businesses that minimize pollution, waste, energy consumption, landscaping chemicals. It strives for the quality. The success of the tourism is not measured only by the number of the tourists but also by length of stay, money spent and quality of experience. A new tourists is emerging .They are in search of memorable experiences, clean environment, high quality services and in search for value for money and time. The industry is also capitalizing on innovation, differentiation and providing memorable experiences. Sustainable tourism helps to employ local people and use local services.
Sustainable tourism can help for raising environmental awareness. Green house gases emissions and climate change due to global warming are affecting our life styles. Tourism sector is no exception and climate change is also effecting the development and management of the tourism sector. Due to climate change there is changes in water availability, biodiversity loss, altered agricultural pattern, coastal erosion and inundation. All these changes will impact tourism to great extend. Sustainable use of the resources for tourism purposes can help to decrease the impact on the environment.
Climate change is also effecting the decision making process of the various stakeholders like investors, insurance companies,governments and tourists for investing in various tourist destinations .For the islands and various villages of the Greece sustainable tourism can be enhanced by adopting policies which help to utilize the natural resources in a sustainable manner. The policies adopted should also help local residents.
There is a great potential for the use of the local products for sustainable tourism in the villages and islands of the Greece. By using local products for the tourists, the transportation cost of the products can be reduced .The emission of the CO2 is also reduced which will ultimately reduce climate change.
Tourism related emissions are growing in contrast to the considerable emission reduction targets. By reducing energy use, improving energy efficiency and by increasing the use of the renewable energy sources sustainable tourism can be achieved and sustainable tourism activities can contribute for decreasing the release of the green house gases in the atmosphere.
MESPOM 2007-2009
Sustainable tourism is a form of tourism development which utilizes resources in a sustainable way. It respects local culture and tradition. Maintenance of biodiversity, integration of tourism in local and national planning and benefit to local economies are some of the basic principles of the sustainable tourism. According to world tourism organization the tourism will increase double in next 20 years. One of best example of the sustainable tourism is Crete in Greece.
Sustainable tourism includes protecting and promoting natural values. Environmentally aware tourists favor businesses that minimize pollution, waste, energy consumption, landscaping chemicals. It strives for the quality. The success of the tourism is not measured only by the number of the tourists but also by length of stay, money spent and quality of experience. A new tourists is emerging .They are in search of memorable experiences, clean environment, high quality services and in search for value for money and time. The industry is also capitalizing on innovation, differentiation and providing memorable experiences. Sustainable tourism helps to employ local people and use local services.
Sustainable tourism can help for raising environmental awareness. Green house gases emissions and climate change due to global warming are affecting our life styles. Tourism sector is no exception and climate change is also effecting the development and management of the tourism sector. Due to climate change there is changes in water availability, biodiversity loss, altered agricultural pattern, coastal erosion and inundation. All these changes will impact tourism to great extend. Sustainable use of the resources for tourism purposes can help to decrease the impact on the environment.
Climate change is also effecting the decision making process of the various stakeholders like investors, insurance companies,governments and tourists for investing in various tourist destinations .For the islands and various villages of the Greece sustainable tourism can be enhanced by adopting policies which help to utilize the natural resources in a sustainable manner. The policies adopted should also help local residents.
There is a great potential for the use of the local products for sustainable tourism in the villages and islands of the Greece. By using local products for the tourists, the transportation cost of the products can be reduced .The emission of the CO2 is also reduced which will ultimately reduce climate change.
Tourism related emissions are growing in contrast to the considerable emission reduction targets. By reducing energy use, improving energy efficiency and by increasing the use of the renewable energy sources sustainable tourism can be achieved and sustainable tourism activities can contribute for decreasing the release of the green house gases in the atmosphere.
The Road Less Traveled to Sigri…
By Alejandra Roman
July 2, 2008
July 2, 2008
A two hour drive from the bustling port of Mytilini through winding roads and hilly terrain, it is no wonder that many tourists stop off at any of the numerous destinations instead of making it to the tiny coastal village of Sigri. Which may partly be a reason why Sigri has remained the little jewel that it is.
When visitors arrive in Sigri, they quickly realize that small really is beautiful. The village has a permanent population of roughly 300, and during peak travel months, Sigri’s population can exceed 600 people on average. The quaintness of the village offers an unquestionable air of hospitability; visitors instantly feel welcomed, as locals never fail to smile and greet passers-by
If you are looking for pampering and luxury, Sigri is not for you. Sigri, still a fisherman’s village, has more to offer visitors than mass produced vacation packages. The village is genuinely beautiful and reveals an authentic Greek life that continues to beat on even after the last tourists leave at the end of the season.
How to spend a day in Sigri
You can start out at the Museum of the Petrified Forest for some insight into the island’s geomorphological history or browse the café/gift shop for locally made goods. After all, who wants to buy souvenirs made in china while visiting Greece?
From the museum, the village is pretty much all down hill and it is best to explore by foot and wander the small roads to take in the beautifully maintained homes with flourishing balconies and brightly colored doors and shutters. Visitors cannot miss the main cobblestone path toward the harbor that leads to the village center, where you will find a handful of restaurants, cafes and bars. With regards to dining, we are talking quality not quantity. Menus are probably more of a formality because these restaurants tend to serve only that which is fresh, but you are sure to always find some Greek staples such as Greek salad, stuffed vine leaves, and as for seafood, simply ask what is the day’s specials.
The village induces a leisurely vibe. With out many main attractions, there is not much to do but sip an ice-cold Mythos, the local beer, on any of the beaches that surround the village.
Both locals and tourists alike enjoy the village beach, but if you are looking for a more reclusive location, you can walk either a few kilometers north or south of the center to find quiet, deserted beaches.
If you are looking for a more rigorous way to spend your time, there is always the possibility to hike through the outskirts of the village.
How can you end an already perfect day? Climb to the top of what remains of the Turkish castle, which over looks the sea and be prepared for a spectacular sunset.
When visitors arrive in Sigri, they quickly realize that small really is beautiful. The village has a permanent population of roughly 300, and during peak travel months, Sigri’s population can exceed 600 people on average. The quaintness of the village offers an unquestionable air of hospitability; visitors instantly feel welcomed, as locals never fail to smile and greet passers-by
If you are looking for pampering and luxury, Sigri is not for you. Sigri, still a fisherman’s village, has more to offer visitors than mass produced vacation packages. The village is genuinely beautiful and reveals an authentic Greek life that continues to beat on even after the last tourists leave at the end of the season.
How to spend a day in Sigri
You can start out at the Museum of the Petrified Forest for some insight into the island’s geomorphological history or browse the café/gift shop for locally made goods. After all, who wants to buy souvenirs made in china while visiting Greece?
From the museum, the village is pretty much all down hill and it is best to explore by foot and wander the small roads to take in the beautifully maintained homes with flourishing balconies and brightly colored doors and shutters. Visitors cannot miss the main cobblestone path toward the harbor that leads to the village center, where you will find a handful of restaurants, cafes and bars. With regards to dining, we are talking quality not quantity. Menus are probably more of a formality because these restaurants tend to serve only that which is fresh, but you are sure to always find some Greek staples such as Greek salad, stuffed vine leaves, and as for seafood, simply ask what is the day’s specials.
The village induces a leisurely vibe. With out many main attractions, there is not much to do but sip an ice-cold Mythos, the local beer, on any of the beaches that surround the village.
Both locals and tourists alike enjoy the village beach, but if you are looking for a more reclusive location, you can walk either a few kilometers north or south of the center to find quiet, deserted beaches.
If you are looking for a more rigorous way to spend your time, there is always the possibility to hike through the outskirts of the village.
How can you end an already perfect day? Climb to the top of what remains of the Turkish castle, which over looks the sea and be prepared for a spectacular sunset.
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