20 Million Years of Nature's Witness

The town of Sigri, located to the west of Lesbos, is not only one of the Egean's most tranquil ports but also home to the Petrified Forest, one of Europe's most valuable geological sites.

The area is approximately 94 km away from the center of Lesbos.

How Was the Petrified Forest Formed?

Approximately 18–20 million years ago, volcanic eruptions covered the tropical forest with layers of lava and ash in an instant.

Over time, the cellular structures of the trees were replaced by silica minerals, preserving the fossilized giant trunks intact to this day.

Why Is It So Special?

• It is the largest petrified forest in Europe
• Giant trunks with a diameter exceeding 2 meters and a circumference of over 13 meters are found
• Fossils of more than 46 different plant species have been identified
• It is part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network

This area is a world heritage site in both scientific and cultural terms.

Sigri Natural History Museum

Opened in 1994, the museum offers interactive spaces to help understand the fossils and geological structure of the region.

Sections you can see include:

• Volcano and earthquake simulations
• Fossil examinations with microscopes
• Exhibits of fossilized leaves, fruits, and roots
• Glass-bottom boat tours to Nisiopi Island

What to Do in the Area?

• Fossil Trail: Walk among the petrified trees in the open air
• Photography: Particularly striking shots in the morning and evening light
• Visit Sigri Castle
• Swimming break at Klisidi Beach and Nisiopi shores

Visitor Information

• Location: Sigri, Lesbos
• Entrance Fee: Adult 5€ – Student 3€ (2025)
• Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00 (until 19:00 in summer)

Why Should You Visit?

The Petrified Forest of Lesbos is a unique formation that seemingly freezes nature from millions of years ago in time.

It is a true open-air laboratory for nature, geology, and history enthusiasts and one of the island's most impressive stops.