Our natural heritage needs your action!
Become a volunteer!
Volunteerism has been an effective tool for the Petrified Forest since 2002 when the “Friends of the Petrified Forest” was established. It had long been a dream for residents of Lesvos who had been involved in the protection and promotion of the Petrified Forest.
Citizen involvement in the protection of the forest began in 1985 when the state declared it a “Protected Natural Monument”. Since then the forest has grown in fame and people have come from all over the world to see this treasure on our island.
The next big step occurred in 1994 when the Natural History Museum of the Lesvos Petrified Forest was established in Sigri. As a result, today visitors can better appreciate the value and worth of the forest.
Besides its permanent exhibits, the Museum organizes and hosts many other events: photographic and art exhibits, book presentations, concerts, festivals highlighting local products etc. The region of Sigri has benefited greatly from the thousands of visitors every year, drawing it out of isolation and making it a dynamic centre on the western side of Lesvos.
The protection of the Petrified Forest in not only a responsibility of the Museum or Forestry Service, it is a responsibility for all of us. The Friends association is made up of citizens, residents in the region, Museum staff, scientists, and people who love the Petrified Forest from all across the country.