The Petrified Forest Of Lesbos

Lesbos is famous for its petrified forest and if you visit the island you should take the opportunity to visit it. There are very few petrified forests in the world and the one on Lesbos is widely regarded as the best.

The petrified forest is located in the far west of Lesbos, covering the area between the villages of Skala Eressos, Andissa (Antissa) and Sigri. This part of the island is largely barren and infertile and in sharp contrast to the lushness of the rest of Lesbos.

The area was declared a Protected Natural Monument by the Greek Government in 1985 and in 1994 the National History Museum Of Lesvos' Petrified Forest was opened in Sigri.

The petrified forest dates back some 15 to 20 million years and to a time when Lesbos saw a great deal of volcanic activity. During one such eruption, the forest would have been engulfed in lava and ash so quickly that it was unable to burn and was frozen in time. Over the coming years, the wood was replaced by minerals and the trees became fossilised.

Some visitors no doubt expect to see an entire petrified forest when they visit, but what remains of the trees are mostly stumps. Because they been preserved so perfectly though, the grain of the wood, bark and the centric rings can be clearly seen, and that's what makes a visit so worthwhile.

The petrified forest now forms part of a national park with trails that can be followed both on foot and by bike. There is a cafe on site and toilets too.

It's an interesting day out and one that can be enjoyed by all of the family.