TroodosGeoparkApplication Revised WWW

1
Contents
PROLOGUE ............................................................................................................................................. 2
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 2
A. Identification of the area ............................................................................................................... 4
A.1 Name of the proposed Geopark .............................................................................. 4
A.2 Surface area, physical and human geography characteristics of the proposed
Geopark......................................................................................................................... 4
A.3 Organization in charge and management structure ................................................ 8
A.4 Application contact person .....................................................................................10
B. Geological Heritage...................................................................................................................... 13
B.1 Location of the proposed Geopark .........................................................................13
B.2 General geological description ...............................................................................13
B.3 List of geological sites within the proposed Geopark and descriptions ..................23
B.4 Details on the interest of these sites in terms of their international, national,
regional or local value...................................................................................................32
C. Geoconservation .......................................................................................................................... 33
C.1 Current or potential pressure on the proposed Geopark ........................................33
C.2 Current status in terms of protection of natural environment and geological sites
within the proposed Geopark ........................................................................................33
C.3 Data on the management and maintenance of these sites ....................................34
C.4 Listing and descriptions of non-geological sites and their integration into the
proposed Geopark ........................................................................................................35
D. Economic Activity & Business Plan .............................................................................................. 40
D.1 Economic Activity ...................................................................................................40
D.2 Existing and planned facilities for the proposed Geopark ......................................41
D.3 Analysis of geotourism potential of the proposed Geopark ....................................44
D.4 Overview and policies for the sustainable development of geo-tourism, geoeducation and geo-heritage ..........................................................................................46
D.5 Policies for, and examples of, community empowerment in the proposed Geopark
.....................................................................................................................................47
D.6 Policies for, and examples of, public and stakeholder awareness in the proposed
Geopark........................................................................................................................48
E. Interest and arguments for joining the EGN/GGN....................................................................... 49
E.1 The significance of integrating the proposed Geopark in the European Geopark
network .........................................................................................................................49
BIBLIOGRAPHY ..................................................................................................................................... 50
PROLOGUE
This document constitutes an integrated proposal for the establishment of the Troodos Geopark,
the first of its kind in Cyprus. It gives a detailed account of the Troodos area, its geological and
natural environment, its land use, its local communities and the use of its resources. It briefly
evaluates the area and defines the scope of the Geopark and the proposal implementation.
The document was prepared by a committee of experts from two government and one nongovernment, non-profit organization, as follows:
Geological Survey Department, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment
(coordinator)
Department of Forests, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment
Troodos District Development Agency
INTRODUCTION
The Troodos mountain range on the island of Cyprus, with its internationally renowned ophiolite,
attracts geologists from all over the world because of its unique stratigraphic completeness,
preservation and exposure, its numerous ancient and contemporary mines, its quarries and the
beautiful natural landscape. It is an area of unique ecological, cultural and historical interest both
on the local and pan-european scale. If the Troodos ophiolite becomes a member of the European
Geoparks network, not only will it be the easternmost geopark in the network, it will also be the
only ophiolite geopark in Europe.
The genesis of the island of Cyprus is directly linked to the genesis and uplift of the Troodos
mountain range which was the result of a series of unique and complicated geological processes.
These processes have created an important geological model for the creation of oceanic crust. This
model consisting of preserved mid-oceanic ridge analogues and a well preserved transform fault
analogue has contributed to the understanding of the evolution of the oceans. It is beyond
comprehension to many, that the forested top of Troodos constitutes the deepest layer of a piece
of oceanic crust as well as the upper mantle of the earth. What we call the Troodos ophiolite
complex formed 92 million years ago, 8.000 meters below the surface of the sea.
The geological phenomena that have shaped the landscape have also determined the natural
environment of Troodos and subsequently, the historical and cultural evolution of the island. The
extensive exploration of its rich, natural resources, however, has been of primary influence. They
include deposits of copper, asbestos and chromite, extensive and renewable forests and water
(mainly underground). Cyprus is no doubt one of the first producers of copper in the world and one
of the first countries, where metallic copper was produced from the mining and smelting of
cupriferous sulphide ore, known as Cyprus-type deposits. The earliest finds of smelting which were
discovered gave an age of 2760 B.C.. More than 100 ancient slag heaps have been found on the
island, believed to be the by-product of a production of 200,000 tons of metallic copper over a
period of 3,000 years. This large scale of production fully justifies the fact that in antiquity, the
island of Cyprus and copper were synonymous.
3
This mining heritage is still evident on the landscape today, and goes hand-in hand with the cultural
heritage which, up to the Roman times was greatly controlled first by the smelting of copper, later
by the spread of Christianity and the Byzantine Period churches and monasteries and until very
recently the traditional villages that constitute what we call today the Cypriot mountain landscapes.
The texts that follow describe the geological and other natural characteristics of the proposed
Geopark as well as the current land uses and local communities. What follows is the assessment of
the area, the formulation of the management targets and suggestions regarding the
implementation of the Geopark idea and for the development of the area.
The complete electronic application dossier is available at:
http://www.moa.gov.cy/moa/gsd/gsd.nsf/All/F405A8011B642B10C2257D9C002CF0D2?OpenDocu
ment
A. Identification of the area

A.1 Name of the proposed Geopark
English: Troodos Geopark
Greek:
Troodos Geopark is the name proposed for the candidate area. It takes its name from the
Troodos mountain range which is the dominant geological feature of the island.
A.2 Surface area, physical and human geography characteristics of the proposed
Geopark
Location
The proposed Troodos Geopark is located in the heart of the island of Cyprus, which is situated in
the easternmost part of the Mediterranean Sea. The Geopark covers an area of 1.147 km2,
constituting approximately 36% of the area of the Troodos mountain range and 12% of the area of
Cyprus (Fig.A.1). The area is easily accessible to the public with short-distance scenic routes from all
urban centres and Larnaka and Pafos airports (Fig.A.1).
Fig.A. 1: Geographic location of the Troodos proposed Geopark. The map shows the main roads, airports and seaports.
Three main roads lead to the Troodos proposed Geopark from the three nearest and biggest cities
of the island. The Troodos square, which is located near the highest peak of the region called
Mount Olympus, can be reached from Lefkosia (57 km), from Lemesos (77 km) and Pafos (120 km).
The nearest airports are the Larnaka and Pafos International Airports (both are at a distance of
5
approximately 120 km from Troodos square). The Larnaka International Airport is the biggest
airport in the country with regular flights to Europe, America, Africa and Asia.
Physical Geography
The Geopark area is mountainous with the altitude ranging from 300 m to 1952 m at the highest
peak of the island, the Chionistra summit (Fig.A.1). The uplift of the dome-shaped Troodos massif
fragmented its rocks, the varied resistance of the rocks to erosion and weathering and heavy rains
contributed significantly to the creation of impressive landscapes and the formation of soils rich in
minerals and trace elements. Rivers flow in a radial pattern from the peaks of the mountain range
to the surrounding areas creating various landscapes along the valleys, depending on the type of
rocks they transect. We encounter landscapes such as broad valleys with smooth slopes, deep and
narrow valleys (V-shaped) with steep slopes, gorges and small waterfalls, which along with the flora
and fauna create a magical setting.
Climate
The proposed Troodos Geopark has a typical Mediterranean climate. July and August are usually
the hottest (average daily temperature is 24,5C) and December-February the coldest months
(average daily minimum is 0,5C in February). The presence of the high mountain massif has an
effect on climatic conditions, especially rain. The annual average precipitation ranges from 600 mm
1100 mm which is quite high, compared to the average of the whole island (500 mm). The lowest
precipitation is observed in the area from Potami up to Atsa-Katidata and the highest at the top of
Troodos. December and January usually exhibit the highest precipitation whereas the period from
May to September is usually dry. Snow is observed at altitudes above 1000 m every year and is
often sustained for 2-3 months with an approximate thickness of 1-3 m.
Forests, Vegetation and Fauna
The largest part of the Geopark area is covered by natural forests and other natural vegetation. The
area includes the most remarkable forests of the island with the main ones being the Adelfi Forest,
the Papoutsa Forest, the Troodos National Forest Park and the biggest part of the Pafos Forest
(Fig.A.3). The largest percentage of forests are state forests but there are also significant areas of
privately owned woods that alternate with agricultural crops and settlements thus creating
landscapes of extraordinary beauty and of high ecological value.
Troodos hosts several notable natural types of vegetation which are favoured by the lithology, the
location, the elevation and the climatic conditions. Troodos, ranks among the most significant
mountainous floral habitats of Europe due to the presence of numerous endemic and rare plants.
Specialists have, until today, recorded 92 different endemic Cypriot plants in the area of the
Geopark (see Appendix) from a total of 143 endemic species of the island, namely a percentage of
64%, whereas its area compared to the total area of Cyprus is only 12%. Out of these endemics, 37
are found only in the Geopark and nowhere else in the island or the planet. The importance of the
Geopark flora is also demonstrated by the fact that it hosts 10 species of plants out of the 19 which
are included in Annex 1 of the Habitats Directive. It also hosts a large number of important habitats
which are rare and protected on a European level. These include the unique black pine natural
forests which are at the highest peaks of the mountain range at altitudes of above 1.400 m, the
Troodos serpentinophilous grasslands, the natural endemic cedar forests and endemic golden oak,
the Troodos peat grasslands and the Mediterranean endemic forests with junipers, especially at
Troodos (Juniperus foetidissima) and Madari (Juniperus excels).
6
Particularly remarkable is also the fauna of the Geopark which is the main habitat of the endemic
mouflon, the Troodos lizard, the endemic birds, the endemic snake, and a large number of endemic
insects.
Fig.A. 2: Borders of the 110 municipalities in the Troodos proposed Geopark
Fig.A.3 : Land use map of the Geopark Area (CORINE 2006).
7
Human Geography and Land Use
Administratively, the area falls within four provinces, Lefkosia, Larnaka, Lemesos and Pafos and
consists of 110 municipalities (Fig.A. 2) with a population of around 25.000 residents. Intensive
migration of local populations to urban centres has been taking place since the 1960s. This
migration has shrunk local populations which are now characterised by an aging population curve.
The main uses of land in the area of the Geopark are presented on Map (Fig.A.3) and Table 1
created for CORINE 2006 (Bttner and Kosztra, 2007). The most prevalent use of land is Forests
and other forested areas which occupy around 75,2% of the area, mainly with coniferous forest
pine trees (68%) and shrubs and garigue (29%). Agriculture with 22% includes mixed crops
alternating in small lots constitute the most common use of land (30%), followed by rain fed crops
of fruit trees (almond and olives trees mostly) (20%), vines (15%), deciduous fruit trees like apple
trees, cherry trees, pear trees, peach trees etc (10%), irrigated annual crops (8%) and cereals (5%).
Other land uses are residential areas, dams and artificial lakes, road networks, quarries and mines.
Table 1: Main uses of land in the Troodos proposed Geopark (CORINE-2006)
LAND USE
Forests and other forested areas or areas with natural vegetation
Agriculture
Water bodies
Built up areas and other artificial surfaces (road network, mines, etc)
Total
AREA
PERCENTAGE
2
(km )
(%)
862,58
75,21
252,69
22,02
0,50
0,04
31,37
2,73
1.147,14
100,00
Cultural and historical elements

Hospitality, authenticity and warmth create a feeling of security and trust between locals and
visitors. The mountainous resort area is a tourist attraction of great value which combines natural
environment and cultural resources. Even if the Troodos area has some of the oldest hotels on the
island, dating back to the early 20th century, the development of seaside tourism in the 70s took
such great dimensions that Troodos started to become forgotten and neglected. Nevertheless, this
means that the mountainous area of Troodos has not been developed based on a mass tourism
model, a fact that makes it one of a few locations in Cyprus without any signs of commercial
tourism.
The mountainous area of the wider Troodos range is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage,
especially when it comes to folklore and religious monuments. Cyprus has a large number of
Byzantine monuments resulting in ten of them having such significant historical and artistic value
that they are included on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. All ten sites are churches located
in Troodos dating from the 11th to the 17th century. The picturesque villages scattered in the area
have preserved their architectural character. This character differs from place to place, with
remarkable elements of natural materials, its own customs and traditions. Noteworthy is the village
of Fikardou which has been declared as an historical monument, carefully restored to preserve its
18th century houses with their remarkable woodwork and folk architecture. In 1987 the village
received the Europa Nostra Award. Another 45 villages have special architectural character
protected by the Town Planning Law.
The residents contribute to the preservation of the local gastronomy by producing and processing
agricultural products which vary in each area depending on elevation, topography and geology.
8
Apart from agricultural products (wine and its by-products, sweets, etc.), the area also produces a
variety of traditional handicrafts (pottery, basketry etc.).
A.3 Organization in charge and management structure

The Board of Ministers of the Republic of Cyprus has decided on Wednesday 19th of November,
2014, to support the integration of the Troodos proposed Geopark into the European Geopark
Network (EGN). With this decision the Board of Ministers authorises the Geological Survey
Department to proceed with the submission of this application dossier having the major
responsibility for the sustainable management of the proposed Geopark together with other
government departments and local organizations, which will make-up the Coordinating Committee.
This Ministerial decision was proposed by the Geological Survey Department after the end of a 2year preparation period. The total cost for this work is estimated to have totalled 120.000 euros in
personnel cost.
Coordinating Committee
Operator
Board of TDDA
(Chair and Members)
Director and
Staff of TDDA
Geotourism
Marketing and
Communication
Administration,
Accounting and
Finance
Educational &
Training
Fig. A.5: Organogram of the Troodos proposed Geopark
Geopark Coordinating Committee

The coordinating committee is composed of the Geological Survey Department (GSD), the
Department of Forests (DF), the Department of Environment (DE), the Cyprus Tourism Organisation
(CTO), the Troodos District Development Agency (TDDA), the Troodos Tourism Board (TTB) and the
Troodos Network of Thematic Centres (TNTC). The Geological Survey Department chairs this
committee. The coordinating committee deals with subjects regarding the sustainable operation
and the implementation of actions for the development of the Geopark and also provides scientific
support to the Troodos proposed Geopark. The members of the committee will advise the operator
on issues relating to their scientific expertise.
9
Geopark Operator
The operator of the proposed Geopark is the TDDA. It was established in January 2009 as a nonprofit organization without share capital, and includes 78 community councils representing 21.000
people in the Troodos region. Its Board consists of a Chair and Members. The Board of the TDDA is
responsible for the management of the Geopark Visitor Centre of Troodos by assigning an officer in
charge. The effective operation of the Geoparks Visitor Centre requires the employment of a
scientist. More specifically, a geologist who informs the visitors about the Geoparks exhibits and
the geology of the area, coordinates and handles educational, geology-related excursions and takes
initiatives for implementation or promotion of programs which serve the purposes and the financial
sustainability of the Geopark. Educational excursions regarding flora and fauna are organised in
cooperation with the staff of the DF.
In brief, the staff dealing with the management of the Geopark Centre are:
The Geopark Visitor Centre Officer
One Geologist
One part time employee (beginning in 2016)
One Forestry Officer (present employee of the Department of Forests)
Accounting and Secretarial personnel (employees of Troodos District Development Agency)
The managing body of the Geopark are in constant cooperation with the GSD and the DF for issues
relating to geology and forestry respectively, for organizing conferences, publications in scientific
magazines and collaborations with scientists, academic institutions and other Geoparks.
Revenue
The Coordinating Committee decided to implement an entrance fee for the exhibition that is inside
the Visitor Centre. The price is 3 euros for adults and 2 euros for children. The Visitors Centre
museum houses an exhibition with rocks, minerals and sediments from the Troodos Geopark, an
exhibition with old photographs of the Asbestos Mine and an exhibition about the mining heritage.
Furthermore, maquettes of the proposed Geopark area and the Asbestos Mine, representations of
an ancient furnace for the production of copper and a 1950s mining gallery are exposed in the
centre. The visitors are able to watch a 20 minute film about the genesis of the Troodos.
It is estimated that the Centre will receive around 10.000 visitors per year, based on visitor data
between 2010 and 2012 of the Troodos Environmental Information Centre (TEIC, operated by the
Department of Forests) that show 10.500 visitors per year. Based on the above, the revenue from
the entry fee is expected to be 17.000-25.000 euros per year.
A shop will operate within the Centre providing products from the Troodos proposed Geopark such
as books, informative DVDs, traditional Cypriot products (handmade pottery, wood crafts, stone
sculptures), drinks, delicacies, souvenirs, etc. The total revenue of the shop is not easy to be
estimated. It is expected that the minimum revenue of the shop will be similar to the respective
shop of the TEIC. The TEIC shows profit 3.500 euros per year.
The proposed Geopark Visitor Centre will also have revenue from the organised tours dealing with
different subjects, such as geology, mining heritage, flora, fauna and cultural heritage, in
collaboration with travel agencies, hotels, the CTO and local authorities. In addition, companies that
are interested to display the Geopark logo on their products can do so by paying a 100 yearly fee.
10
The Geopark will also take part in European and research co-financed programs. It has already been
scheduled for the proposed Geopark Visitor Centre to participate in the Government 2014-2020
Rural Development Program by promoting geosites and other significant geological elements. It is
estimated that an amount of 3.000 annually, will be absorbed by the Geopark.
Table 2: Annual revenue () of the Troodos proposed Geopark Visitor Centre.
Revenue Description
1
2
3
4
5
Government Funding
Entrance Fee to Geopark Centre
Selling of products in Centre shop
Geopark logo use
Various projects
TOTAL
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
10.000
17.000
5.250
2.000
3.000
37.250
10.000
17.850
5.513
2.000
3.000
38.363
19.992
6.174
2.000
3.000
31.166
22.391
6.915
2.000
3.000
34.306
25.078
7.745
2.000
3.000
37.823
An attempt will also be made to participate in LIFE and INTERREG programs with help from
authorities involved in the Coordinating Committee, programs which can cover the annual costs of
the Geopark on their own.
Costs
The geologists gross annual salary will be 12.960 euros. Further, annually, the proposed Geopark
Visitors Centre will have operating costs, consumables, repair costs, as well as travelling costs to the
EGN meetings, annual fee to the EGN and expenses for the revalidation mission of the territory
every 4 years. The total cost for the Geopark Visitors Centre will sum up to 31.000-36.000 euros
per year (table 3) and will be fully covered by the Centres revenue. The review will be carried out
by the Coordinating Committee of the proposed Geopark.
Table 3: Annual costs () of the Troodos proposed Geopark Visitor Centre.
Cost Description
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Personnel (1 full time contract)

Personnel (1 part time contract)
Operating (heating, electricity, tel., water)
Repairs
Consumables
Promotional activities
Travelling
Evaluation Missions by EGN
Annual fee to EGN
TOTAL
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
13.326
6.690
1.500
500
2.000
2.950
3.000
2.000
31.966
13.326
4.800
6.690
1.650
500
1.000
2.950
2.000
32.916
13.326
4.800
6.690
1.815
500
1.000
2.950
2.000
33.081
13.326
4.800
6.690
1.997
500
500
2.950
2.000
32.763
13.326
4.800
6.690
2.196
500
500
2.950
3.000
2.000
35.962
A.4 Application contact person

The application contact persons are:
Dr Eleni Georgiou-Morisseau,
Director, Geological Survey Department
Tel.: 00 357 22-409213,
Fax: 00 357 22-316873,
Email: director@gsd.moa.gov.cy
Dr Efthymios Tsiolakis,
Geological Officer, Geological Survey Department
Tel.: 00 357 22-409233,
Fax: 00 357 22-316873,
Email: etsiolakis@gsd.moa.gov.cy
12
B. Geological Heritage
B.1 Location of the proposed Geopark
The proposed geopark area includes part of the Troodos mountain range (Fig.B.1) and its possible
integration into the European Geopark Network will make it the easternmost geopark of Europe.
The proposed geopark has a nearly parallelogram shape with longitude and latitude coordinates:
3316'13,3"E-3451'21,745"N,
3311'24,691"E-352'40,3"N,
339'17,388"E-354'7,98"N,
3254'46,275"E-355'8,821"N,
3252'24,56"E-355'56,46"N,
3243'21,315"E-353'21,13"N,
3240'40,78"E-351'18,23"N,
3239'13,11"E-3457'17,24"N,
3240'6,356"E-3453'31,05"N,
3247'58,342"E-3450'48,518"N, 3316'18,932"E-3450'2,89"N.
B.2 General geological description

The Troodos mountain range consists mainly of oceanic crust rocks which dominate the central part
of the island with Mount Olympus being its highest point (1.952 m). It has a characteristic
ellipsoidal dome shape with its longer axis having a NW-SE orientation constituting the geological
core of Cyprus (Fig. B.2). The sedimentary rocks surrounding the Troodos mountain range are not
well-represented in the Troodos proposed Geopark. The Troodos ophiolite can be divided into two
main terranes: the Troodos Mountains and the Lemesos and Akapnou Forests. The boundary of the
two terranes is the fossil transform fault of Arakapas (Fig.B.2).
The word ophiolite comes from the Greek words ophis (snake) and lithos (stone) and it was coined
by the Swiss geologist Alexander Brongniart to describe serpentinite as well as gabbro and other
plutonic rocks, whose general appearance resembles that of a spotted green snake.
The Troodos ophiolite was formed 92 million years ago in the depths of the Neotethyan Ocean
when the South Atlantic started to spread and as a result, the African plate moved northwards. In
the Neotethyan Ocean, the convergence of the African and Eurasian plates gave rise to successive
subduction zones as a result of the breaking up of the old Upper Triassic oceanic crust.
Fig.B.3: Supra-Subduction Zone. Dense Late Triassic oceanic crust sinking beneath oceanic crust of the same age with
the plates diverging over the subduction zone (modified from Constantinou et al., 1997).
In the wider extent of the present eastern Mediterranean, the dense and heavy subducted oceanic
crust caused the backward migration of the trench leading northwards over the subduction zone to
14
the consequent spreading of the ocean. In this zone and at depths of approximately 60 kilometres,
the temperatures ranged between 1.000-1.200 C, causing partial melting of mantle material,
creating rising magma of basaltic composition, and finally giving rise to the new oceanic crust of
Troodos in a supra-subduction zone (Fig.B.3).
The Ophiolite stratigraphy
The Troodos ophiolite consists of plutonic,
intrusive, volcanic rocks and chemical sediments
(Fig.B.4). The reason for the unique geological
character of Troodos on a worldwide scale is the
fact that all members of the ophiolite appear
stratigraphically undisturbed. The Troodos
Ophiolite consists of the following stratigraphic
units, in ascending order: a) the mantle
sequence, b) the cumulates, c) the intrusives, d)
the volcanics and e) the chemical sediments.
Although stratigraphically the ultramafic
plutonic rocks are the lowest, topographically
they are found at the highest point of the
mountain range, while the stratigraphically
higher units appear successively towards the
periphery. This apparent inversion is related to
the tectonic uplift of the complex, which is
partly also due to the serpentinisation of the
harzburgites forming a dome, and the
differential erosion of the rocks.
Fig.B.4: Stratigraphic column of the Troodos ophiolite

complex (West et al., 2007).
The Mantle Sequence

The rocks of the mantle sequence are considered to be the residuals after the partial melting and
crystallization of the upper mantle and the formation of basaltic magma, from which the whole
sequence of the ophiolite rocks derived. It is mainly composed of harzburgite (Fig.B.5) and small
lenses of dunite.
Fig. B.5:Harzburgite around the Mount Olympus area.
Characteristic exposures of harzburgite with dunite lenses can be seen on Mount Olympus (Fig.
B.5). It is worth mentioning that travelling through the Troodos Range from Mount Olympus to the
15
periphery we traverse the Earths profile from the upper mantle to the surface of the planet, in an
oceanic environment.
The circulation of seawater through harzburgite and dunite, caused the serpentinization of the
original minerals (mainly olivine) and their transformation into serpentine minerals such as
antigorite, lizardite and chrysotile, known as asbestos (Fig. B.6). Asbestos mineralization appears in
veins up to 2 cm thick with fibres growing perpendicular to the direction of the veins.
Serpentinization is more widespread in eastern Troodos, where the most significant chrysotile
asbestos concentrations are found, including the deposit of the Asbestos Mine.
Fig. B.6: Serpentinite (left) with veins of chrysotile asbestos (middle) and picrolite (right) in the Asbestos Mine area.
Picrolite is a mineral formed in paragenesis with chrysotile, having a characteristic green colour
(Fig.B.6) and was widely used in antiquity for the manufacture of jewellery and small figurines.
During the Chalcolithic Period (3.900-2.500 BC) idols like cruciform figurines were made from
picrolite (Fig. B.7), their size varying from 5-6 cm to 15 cm in height.
Fig.B.7: Cruciform figurines from the Chalcolithic Period in Cyprus.
Cumulate Rocks
Once magma was formed it ascended, initially filling the space between the crust and the upper
mantle (known as magma chambers) at a depth of 4-6 km beneath the Neotethys Ocean floor.
Most of these magma chambers represent an open dynamic system into which magma derived
16
from the melting of the upper mantle entered, and then exited through channels, feeding volcanic
lava flows on the sea bed (Fig.B.8).
Pillow Lava
Sheeted Dyke Complex
Magma Chamber
Plutonic Rocks
Mantle Rocks
Fig.B.8: The approximate structure of a spreading system. A magma chamber, in yellow, feeds dykes and lava flows
(http://www.uwgb.edu/dutchs/PLATETEC/SpreadCtrs.HTM).
Cumulate rocks are the products of partial crystallisation and accumulation of crystals on the floor
of the magma chambers, beneath the zone of sea floor spreading. The first minerals that
crystallised were olivine and chromite which precipitated on the floor of the magma chamber,
forming dunite and chromite concentrations. Dunite bodies appear around Mount Olympus
(Fig.B.9) and extend to western Troodos where the biggest deposits of chromite are found.
Fig.B.9: Dunite body (left) and a chromite gallery (right) in the Hadjipavlou Mine area.
Elongated dunite bodies of varying size, some containing economically exploitable concentrations
of chromite (Fig. B.10), are found systematically in harzburgite. Chromite is a metallic accessory
mineral of the ultramafic rocks. Important chromite concentrations creating ore bodies are known
in the area. The most significant deposits occur in the western part of Troodos and were exploited
in the Kokkinorotsos, Kanoures and Hadjipavlou mines (Fig.B.10).
17
Fig.B.10: Geological map with the chromite and asbestos mines around Mount Olympus.
The
economically
exploitable
chromite
deposits are of podiform
type with a concentration
of chromite oxide varying
from 45% to 52%.
Chromite has a variety of
textures with the most
common being massive,
leopard type (globular
concentrations)
and
schlieren (Fig. B.11).
Fig.B.11: Massive (left), leopard type (middle) and banded chromite (schlieren).
Fig.B.12: Wehrlite (left) and pyroxenite (right).
18
Crystallization in higher magma levels with further decrease of the temperature formed
clinopyroxene and along with olivine and a small amount of chromite produced wehrlite (Fig. B.12).
Higher up, zones with increased amounts of clinopyroxene display gradual transition from wehrlite
to pyroxenite (Fig. B.12).
Subsequently, with a further drop in temperature, the plagioclase mineral appears in the system
forming various types of gabbros (Fig.B.13). The magma remaining in the chamber after the
crystallization and the precipitation of olivine, clinopyroxene and plagioclase, is depleted in mafic
components such as magnesium and iron and consequently rich in silica. This magma composition
gives plagiogranite (Fig. B.13), which occurs in small bodies in the gabbros.
Fig.B.13: Gabbroic rocks in the Karvounas area (left) and a body of plagiogranite (white colour) in gabbro on the
Lemythou-Foini roadcut, were been later affected by a fault.
The Sheeted Dyke Complex (Diabase)

The Sheeted Dyke Complex was formed by the
successive intrusions and crystallisation of
magma in transport conduits from the magma
chambers to the ocean floor, while feeding
simultaneously the submarine extrusion of
lavas. It is a sequence of dykes (Fig. B.14)
representing the filling material of the empty
space created at the divergent boundaries. A
typical example of this natural process may be
seen today in Iceland along the divergent
boundaries of the North American and Eurasian
plates. In Troodos, the Sheeted Dyke Complex is
a very extensive, concentric exposure around
the cumulate rocks.
The Sheeted Dyke Complex consists of parallel
NW-SE dykes of doleritic to basaltic composition
while the dip varies from vertical to 45o in the
areas affected by tectonics.
Fig.B.14:Sheeted Dyke Complex in the Palaichori area.
19
The Basal Group
The transition from the extrusive series
(volcanic rocks) to the Sheeted Dyke
Complex is known as the Basal Group. It
consists of over 50% dykes with screens of
pillow lavas. The Basal Group is
characterised by brown, highly weathered
and oxidized rocks due to sub-greenschist
facies metamorphism (Fig.B.15). They are
characterised by the presence of secondary
minerals like quartz, chlorite, epidote and
iron pyrites.
Fig.B.15: The Basal Group near Evrychou village consists
entirely of brownish highly-weathered dykes due to sub-green
schist metamorphism.
The Volcanic Rocks

The volcanic rocks of Troodos consist of pillow lavas, lava flows and dykes. Based on the mineral
composition, the presence of the dykes and the colour of the outcrops, the volcanic rocks are
divided in two horizons, the Upper and Lower Pillow Lavas.
The Upper Horizon is formed mainly of pillow lavas and few dykes and consists of basalts and
olivine basalts. The rocks are usually weathered and friable due to low grade metamorphism at
zeolite facies. The rocks have a characteristic reddish-grey, pinkish colour due to ocean floor
weathering. Seawater penetrates into the volcanic rocks through cracks due to the rapid cooling of
the lava. Due to metamorphism, the primary minerals of the pillows are commonly replaced by
secondary minerals, mainly zeolites (natrolite and analcite) and calcite often filling the vesicles and
the free space in between the pillows (Fig. B.16).
Fig.B.16: Upper Pillow Lavas (left) and zeolites (right).
The pillow lavas were formed when high viscosity magma was erupted onto the bottom of the
Neotethyan Ocean (high viscosity lavas flow slowly and typically cover small areas), (Fig.B.18). The
20
low temperature of seawater resulted in the rapid cooling of the magma and the formation of
pillows. They have a characteristic spherical to ellipsoidal shape 60 cm to 170 cm long. Because of
rapid cooling, they have a glassy surface while the interior is vesicular, due to the abrupt escape of
gas. The vesicles have various shapes and sizes.
The Lower Horizon is formed mainly

of pillow lavas, lava flows and dykes.
The proportion of lavas to dykes is
more or less equal. They are usually
grey to grey-green in colour, reflecting
a low degree of alteration under
reducing
conditions
(Fig.B.17).
Celadonite and smectites are common
products of this type of alteration
created due to lava sea water
interaction at low temperature
(<150oC).
Celadonite is a mineral with a
characteristic
green
colour
occasionally occuring as a soft clayish
material and is a natural pigment
known as terra verde. An additional
product of this alteration is
chalcedony (Fig.B.17). Due to lowgrade metamorphism at zeolite facies,
chalcedony (Fig. B.17), jasper and
zeolites (heulantite) were formed,
often filling the empty spaces of
vesicles and cooling joints in the
basalt.
Fig.B.17: Lava flows with celadonite (terra verte) (top) and chalcedony
filling free spaces in basalt (bottom).
Sulphide deposits
The sulphide deposits of Cyprus, often cupriferous, occur within the extrusive volcanic rocks. The
orebodies are comprised of the primary minerals pyrite, chalcopyrite and sphalerite, and the
secondary minerals marcasite, covelline, bornite, chalcocine, idaite and cuprite. These deposits are
located around the foothills of the Troodos massif while the orebodies appear in clusters in six
mining areas, Limni, Skouriotissa-Mavrovouni, Agrokipia-Mitsero, Kalavasos, Kambia and SiaMathiatis. About 30 orebodies (Fig. B.1) have been discovered, the size of which range from 50.000
tonnes (Mavridia Kalavasos) to 17.000.000 tonnes (Mavrovouni).
21
Fig.B.18: Volcanic heat at the mid-ocean ridge axis drives

hydrothermal circulation and chemical exchange between
the ocean crust and seawater. A mid-ocean ridge
hydrothermal system, (black smoker) featuring the
resulting deposits. (Modified from Massoth et al., 1988;
Humphris & McCollum, 1998; Herzig et al., 2000; Edwards
et al., 2010).
b
Fig.B.19: Ancient slag heap (a) and Phoenix Mine (b) in
Skouriotissa.
These deposits have been formed on the Tethys

sea floor along a mid-ocean ridge (sea floor
spreading) by the circulation of metal-rich
hydrothermal fluids. The source of sulphur is
seawater, which percolates through the oceanic
rocks via a network of fissures that are formed
in the zone of seafloor spreading. The
percolating seawater is heated by ascending
magma, washes out metallic elements from the
surrounding rocks and ascends. Once the
hydrothermal fluids reach the seafloor in the
form of black smokers, precipitation of
sulphide minerals such as pyrite and
chalcopyrite occurs due to the drop in
temperature and other physicochemical
conditions (e.g. pH, Eh)(Fig.B.18). Such deposits
are formed today in the Atlantic, Pacific and
Indian Oceans and are known as Cyprus-type
deposits. The differential uplift of Troodos, in
conjunction with the erosion that followed,
exposed the deposits on the surface, where
they were oxidized, forming gossans (iron cap)
of iron oxides and hydroxides with spectacular
red and yellow colours. The association of
Cyprus with copper goes back to the 3rd
millennium BC. Cyprus became the biggest
centre for the production and trade of copper
for 3.000 years and rightly became synonymous
with copper metal. Evidence for that includes
references in ancient scripts (from 1782 BC), the
ancient galleries and tools, ancient wrecks with
copper ingots.
The most convincing evidence for the extent
and duration of the ancient mining activity in
Cyprus are the 4.000.000 tons of ancient slag
found scattered around the outskirts of
Troodos, with more than 100 (26 occuring in the
area of the proposed Geopark) of copper slag
heaps (Fig.B.19a). The slag was the waste
product of the furnace, which the ancient
metallurgists tossed away, forming large heaps.
Today, Phoenix mine at Skouriotissa is the only operating mine in Cyprus (Fig.B.19b). Exploitation
re-commenced in 1996 and for the first time since antiquity metallic copper is again produced, with
the bioleaching and hydrometallurgy methods.
22
The chemical sediments of Pera Pedi Formation
Fig.B.20:Umbers of the Pera Pedi Formation.
The Pera Pedi Formation is composed of

umbers, radiolarians and radiolarian shales.
They are the first sediments to be deposited
over the ophiolite rocks (Fig.B.20). They are
chemical sediments enriched in trace metals,
which were formed as a result of
hydrothermal activity and precipitation of iron
and manganese oxides on the sea floor.
Umbers have been used extensively as
pigments since antiquity. Based on the
micropaleontological results of radiolarian, the
umbers are 92-84 million years old (Bragina &
Bragin, 2006 and Bragina, 2013).
The autochthonous sedimentary cover of Troodos

The geological history of Cyprus from the Upper Cretaceous (75 Ma) is characterised by marine
sedimentation in a sea which becomes gradually more shallow. Sedimentation begins with the
deposition of the Kannaviou Formation (bentonitic clays, volcaniclastic sandstones) (Fig. B.21a),
followed by the deposition of the Moni and Kathikas Formations. Carbonate sedimentation begins
in the Upper Cretaceous (67 Ma) with the deposition of the Lefkara Formation, which includes
pelagic marls and chalks with characteristic white colour, with or without cherts (Fig. B.21b). The
typical development of the Formation is represented by four members: Lower Marls, Chalks with
Cherts, Massive Chalks and Upper Marls.
The Lefkara Formation is followed by the Pakhna Formation (Miocene, 22 Ma), which consists
mainly of yellowish marls, marly chalks and chalks (Fig. B.21c). The colour of the rocks, the presence
of calcarenitic layers and the occasional development of conglomerates are characteristics that
differentiate the Pakhna from the Lefkara Formation. Sedimentation in the Pakhna Formation
began and terminated in shallow-water environment with the development of reefal limestones
(Terra Member at the base and Koronia Member at the top of the Formation) (Fig. B.21d).
The deposition of the evaporites of the Kalavaso Formation followed in the Upper Miocene
(Messinian, 6 Ma), as a result of the closure of the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean and
the evaporation of its water. The Formation is composed of gypsum and gypsiferous marls that
were deposited in small basins tectonically controlled. Gypsum occurs in four types: sugary
(crystalline), laminated (marble), selenite (transparent with large twin crystals) and alabastre
(massive semi-transparent) (Fig. B.21e).
With the re-connection of the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean, a new cycle of
sedimentation began (Pliocene, 5,33 Ma) with the deposition of the Nicosia Formation (Fig. B.21f)
which contains mainly marls and siltstones (grey and yellow) at the beginning and upwards
calcarenites, inter-layered with sandy marls (Athalassa Member) (Plio-Pleistocene, 5,33-2 Ma).
Finally, the Fanglomerate is a Pleistocene formation and includes clastic deposits (gravels, sand and
silt).
23
f
Fig.B.21: Sedimentary rocks from the Troodos sedimentary cover.
B.3 List of geological sites within the proposed Geopark and descriptions
What follows is a brief description of the geological sites present in the Geopark area. These are
mostly typical locations of the Troodos ophiolitic rocks and its sedimentary cover. These are:
1. Lefkara Formation Chalks. Off-white to light-grey, alternating layers of chalks and chalky marls
of the Chalk Member of Lefkara Formation in the Agrokipia village area.
2. Kamara River, Lower Pillow Lavas. The gorge in the Kamara river presents a characteristic
exposure of Lower Pillow Lavas with a low degree of alteration under reducing conditions.
3. Maroullena River, Lower Pillow Lavas. This is the classic locality of these types of rocks. This area
shows the stratigraphically lower part of the volcanic sequence, where the number of dykes
increases abruptly near the boundary with the Basal Group. This site is protected by law.
4. Lower Pillow Lavas, Columnar Jointing. A characteristic section of basaltic lava flows with
columnar jointing (sets of intersecting closely spaced fractures, result in the formation of a regular
24
array of polygonal prisms, or columns). Columnar jointing occurs in many types of volcanic rocks
and forms as the rock cools and contracts.
5. Basal Group. A representative section of Basal Group in the area of Mitsero village consists of
over 50% dykes with screens of pillow lavas between them.
Fig.B.22: Photograph numbers refer to the geological site number as listed in the table B.1.
25
6. Dunite with Chromite. A distinctive banded chromite (schlieren) occurrence on the road-side
near Troodos Square.
7. Poikilitic Wehrlite. In this outcrop the poikilitic wehrlite consists of olivine, large oikocrysts (2-3
cm) of clinopyroxene which include minor crystals of plagioclase and accessory chromite.
8. Pyroxenite. In this outcrop pyroxenite consists of large crystals of the mineral clinopyroxene.
9. Wehrlite. Large crystals of clinopyroxene appear in wehrlite indicating very slow magma cooling.
10. Amiantos Fault. The Amiantos Fault appears in the vicinity of the Asbestos Mine and brings in
tectonic contact rocks of the upper mantle sequence (left) with cumulate rocks (right).
11. Harzburgite with Rodingite Dykes. This outcrop exhibits serpentinized harzburgite with a
network of intruded veins and dykes of rodingite and occasional pegmatitic gabbro.
12. Sheeted Dykes at Madari Ridge. Some of the dykes look like chiselled walls. They are formed by
the differential erosion and weathering of the rocks. The less resistant altered dykes have eroded
faster than the undeformed harder ones which were exposed slowly and emerge as natural walls.
13. Plagiogranite in Gabbro. Exposure of plagiogranite body in gabbroic rocks, in a section of the
Lemythou-Phini road, which have been later affected by a fault.
10
11
12
13
14
16
26
14. Faulted Plagiogranite with Basaltic Dyke. Here the plagiogranite body, after crystallising in
gabbro, was intruded by dykes of basaltic composition. After the intrusion of the dykes the area
was affected by tectonic activity due to the uplift of the Troodos Ophiolite.
15. Gypsum Quarries (Kato Moni village). The gypsum deposits were formed 6 million years ago
(Messinian) and represent a significant event in the geological history of the Mediterranean region,
known as the Messinian Salinity Crisis, when the Mediterranean sea level dropped by 2.000 m.
16. Kottafoi Hill (Koronia Member). The uniqueness of this section is the fact that in a relatively
small section of a hundred meters where the whole sedimentary sequence of the Paleocene to
Upper Miocene (66-7 million years) is exposed.
17. Koronia Reef Limestone. In this small roadcut near the Agios Pandeleimonas monastery in the
Agrokipia village the reef limestone is very rich in bivalves, gastropods, algae and corals.
18. Koronia Hill, Reef Limestone. Is the type locality of Upper Miocene reefal limestones rich in
marine fossils such as bivalves, gastropods, echinoids and corals. This type of rock shows that 6-7
million years ago the sea in the area was very shallow allowing in the development of reefs. This
site is protected by law.
19. Dunite and Harzburgite. Karkotis river canyon cutting through harzburgite with dunite bodies of
various sizes. The main rocks that occur in the vicinity of the canyon are harzburgite and dunite.
20. Umbers, Radiolarites, Bentonitic clay. Brown to black umbers grade upwards into deep-water
radiolarites. The umbers are a product of hydrothermal venting on the sea floor.
21. Massive Chalk. In this section, white thick-bedded massive chalks contain abundant
foraminifera and radiolarians.
22. Chalk and Chert. Bedded chalks with cherts are exposed along the road of Pera Pedi Koilani
villages. The cherts are replacive and show different degrees of replacement, from silicified chalk to
the vitreous type.
23. Arakapas Fault Zone Overview. The Arakapas valley has an east-west orientation and is
situated south of the Troodos Range. It is considered to be a piece of a fossil transform fault that
displaced part of the Neotethyan mid-ocean spreading zone some 92 million years ago.
24. Lower Pillow Lavas (LPL). The LPL are dark grey to grey-green reflecting pervasive low grade
alteration under reducing conditions. Celadonite is a common product of this type of alteration.
25. Peridotites, pyroxenites, pegmatitic gabbro. At least three episodes of magmatic activity are
exposed which are evidence of the complex multiple intrusive evolution of the lower oceanic crust.
26. Arakapas Fault Zone Sediments (Lageia village). Coarse sedimentary breccia passes upwards
rapidly to a series of alternating layers of red mudstones and grey sandstones of turbiditic origin.
These sediments are covered by a brown basalt lava flow. This site is protected by law.
27. Basal group. Near Evrychou village, this outcrop consists entirely of brownish, highly-weathered
dykes due to sub-greenschist metamorphism.
28. Akapnou Forest Detachment. Related to post volcanic extensional deformation of the southern
Troodos margin associated with the rotation of the Troodos microplate.
29. Rotated Sheeted Dyke Complex. The dykes are inclined due to faulting on either side of the
spreading axis after intrusion and solidification of the magma in the transport conduits.
30. Intervolcanic Sediments. A variety of sediments from coarse breccias to grits, sand and silts are
interbedded with iron-rich mudstones filling the Arakapas trough. The units preserve erosive bases
and other sedimentary structures consistent with their deposition from turbidite flows.
31. Sheeted Dykes. The dykes at the Palaichori village consist mainly of diabase and few are of
basaltic composition. The repeating intrusion of vertical dykes between other dykes that were
already solidified and cold, is evidence for the extension created above the subduction zone.
27
32. Limburgite Flows. At this locality, very distinctive black glassy pillow lavas known as limburgites
are intercalated with sheet flows and sedimentary breccias.
33. Plagiogranite Dyke in Diabase Dykes. A section in the Palaichori-Agros road consist mainly of
diabase, basalt and plagiogranite dykes showing the intrusion of magma of different compositions.
28
34. Layered and Massive Gabbro. At this outcrop a thinly layered gabbro is overlain by massive
gabbro indicating that at the lower part, the fractional crystallization was interrupted by the
repeated ascend of new magma into the magma chamber.
35. Wehrlite intruding Gabbro. This section exposes a complex, multiple intrusive history with the
earliest gabbro been intruded by a darker gabbro and both been intruded by poikilitic wehrlite.
36. Olivine-phyric Pillows Lavas (UPL). The pillow lavas at Mitsero village were formed when high
viscosity magma erupted on to the bottom of the Neotethyan Ocean. The low temperature of
seawater resulted in the rapid cooling of the magma and the formation of the pillows.
37. Plutons to peridotites. In this outcrop a vertical dunite zone appears in the harzburgite. The
contact between the dunite layer and the harzburgite is sharply marked by drastic changes in
orthopyroxene content.
38. Lefkara Massive Chalks. In this section white massive chalks of the Chalk Member of the
Lefkara Formation are exposed.
39. Layered Gabbro. The fractional crystallization process was repeatedly interrupted due to the
inflow of new magma in the magma chamber, resulting in layers series of different compositions.
40. Detachment Fault Exposure. In Lemythou village, this characteristic section exposes inclined
dykes over deformed gabbroic rocks. The contact is tectonic in the form of a listric detachment
fault. Considering that the dykes were initially vertical, they have been rotated by at least 75.
41. Diabase, Gabbro and Plagiogranite. A small cupola is developed at the top of a magma
chamber and plutonic rocks such as gabbro, intrude the base of the Sheeted Dyke Complex.
42. Volcanic rocks of Arakapas Valley. The roadcut exposes pillow lavas cut by a few dykes. They
display small degree of deformation indicating that these lavas erupted into the trough of the
Arakapas fault zone after most of the slip on the transform fault had ceased.
43. Epidotised Sheeted Dykes. In the area of the Gerakies village, the sheeted dyke complex has a
yellowish green colour due to the partial or total replacement of the original minerals to yellow
green epidote. Epidosite is poor in magnesium, copper, zinc and manganese, which are elements
seen in abundance in black chimneys.
44. Ancient Mine Galleries. In this outcrop basaltic dykes host sulphide deposits, which attracted
the attention of ancient prospectors. Three small ancient galleries appear in this roadcut and an
excavated furnace site in a vineyard down the road.
45. Dunite, Wehrlite and Pyroxenite. A section which displays the lower part of the plutonic
sequence. The massive dunite passes gradually to wehrlite through a zone of highly serpentinized
clinopyroxene dunite. Further down, the wehrlite is in tectonic contact with pegmatitic pyroxenite.
46. High Level Cumulate Rocks. In a road section in the Chandria village various types of gabbros
are intruded by younger dykes of basalt and plagiogranite. This is an indication that during the
genesis of the Troodos ophiolite, more than one magma chamber existed.
47. Layered Pyroxenite. Layered pyroxenite with relative abundance of olivine layers.
48. Sheeted Dykes. This characteristic outcrop is composed entirely of sheeted dykes. Some dykes
have chilled margins and others are green, showing that they have been replaced by epidosite.
49. Pillow lava. In the village of Kato Moni there is an exposure of one of the very best sections of
volcanics. The section exposes pillow lavas in tectonic contact with sheet flows and hyaloclastites.
50-52, 56, 58-61. Massive Sulphide Mines (Agrokipia, Alestos, Apliki, Kokkinopezoula, Kokkinoyia,
Memi, Skouriotissa and Vretsia). The sulphide deposits of Cyprus, rich in pyrite and chalcopyrite,
have been formed on the Neotethys sea floor along a spreading axis by the extrusion of metal-rich
hydrothermal fluids on the seafloor in the form of black smokers. Such deposits are formed today
in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans and are known as Cyprus-type deposits.
29
53. Asbestos Mine. The Asbestos Mine is situated at the central part of the Troodos Range and with
an area of 4,7 km2 is the biggest deposit of chrysotile asbestos in Europe. Following the termination
of the mining activities and the mining lease in 1992, the Government undertook the rehabilitation
works. The rehabilitation works began in the autumn of 1995 under the guidance of a
multidisciplinary team with general aim the stability, rehabilitation and reforestation of the waste
dumps of the broader mine area.
30
50
53
54
55
56
58
60
61
54, 55, 57. Chromite Mines (Kannoures, Kokkinorotsos and Hadjipavlou). These are three
underground chromite mines, Hadjipavlou, Kannoures and Kokkinorotsos. The genesis of chromite
deposits is directly related to the genesis of the ophiolite complex and more specifically to the
cumulate rocks and the process of fractional crystallization. The most important deposits of the
mineral occur in the contact zone between the harzburgite and the dunite in the area around the
Olympus mountain.
31
Table B.1: List for the geosites and mines in the Troodos proposed Geopark area.
Label on
map of
Figure B1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
Geological Description
Lefkara Formation Chalk
Kamara River, Lower Pillow Lavas
Maroullena River, Lower Pillow Lavas
Lower Pillow Lavas, Columnar Jointing
Basal Group
Dunite with Chromite
Poikilitic Wehrlite
Pyroxenite
Wehrlite
Amiantos Fault
Harzburgite with Rodingite Dykes
Sheeted Dykes Madari Ridge
Plagiogranite in Gabbro
Faulted Plagiogranite with Basaltic Dyke
Gypsum Quarries
Kottafoi Hill (Koronia Member)
Koronia Reef Limestone
Koronia Hill, Reef Limestone
Dunite and Harzburgite, Agios Nikolaos Kakopetria
Umbers, Radiolarites, Bentonitic clays
Massive Chalks
Chalks and Cherts
Arakapas Fault Belt Overview
Lower Pillow Lavas
Peridotites,pyroxenites, pegmatitic gabbro
Arakapas Fault Zone Sediments
Basal group
Akapnou Forest Detachment
Rotated Sheeted Dyke Complex
Intervolcanic Sediments
Sheeted Dykes
Limburgite Flows
Plagiogranite Dyke in Diabase Dykes
Layered and Massive Gabbro
Wehrlite intruding Gabbro
Olivine-phyric Pillows Lavas (UPL)
Plutons to peridotites
Lefkara Massive Chalks
Layered Gabbro
Detachment Fault Exposure
Diabase, Gabbro and Plagiogranite
Volcanic rocks of Arakapas Valley
Epidotized Sheeted Dykes
Ancient Mine Galleries
Dunite, Wehrlite and Pyroxenite
High Level Cumulate Rocks
Layered Pyroxenite
Sheeted Dykes
Pillow lava
MINES
Location Coordinates
(WGS84)
East
North
516350
516227
514027
506904
491376
489922
487142
485342
485461
493110
493271
499563
483595
483189
509226
513959
512554
496155
490029
489615
487971
488105
525139
495531
485899
524068
507958
523532
491227
522046
505822
520719
507689
493362
487969
511333
487342
479181
487838
482550
506909
510555
480822
483586
486769
499681
485927
508439
507694
3878376
3877341
3874359
3878990
3877711
3863602
3862502
3866552
3866398
3865673
3864684
3868186
3865570
3865484
3880108
3878485
3878571
3883131
3869630
3857304
3856103
3856390
3855322
3882290
3868932
3855548
3876163
3854502
3872442
3856241
3871448
3856879
3863544
3866249
3860984
3878453
3863196
3858738
3863067
3867644
3866911
3855633
3873366
3859040
3866957
3866882
3867050
3863761
3879169
32
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
Agrokipia Mine
Alestos Mine
Apliki Mine
Asbestos Mine
Hadjipavlou Mine
Kannoures Mine
Kokkinopezoula Mine
Kokkinorotsos Mine
Kokkinoyia Mine
Memi Mine
Skouriotissa Mine
Vretsia Mine
513236
502143
485707
492477
487535
488927
510575
487528
509867
503512
489867
470544
3877866
3876759
3881326
3864927
3864488
3866764
3877024
3867769
3877758
3877218
3883654
3863900
B.4 Details on the interest of these sites in terms of their international, national,
regional or local value
Most of the above sites exhibit spectacular geology and the processes of the formation of oceanic
crust (38 geosites) and fewer ones for its sedimentary cover (11 geosites). The reason for the
unique geological character of Troodos on a worldwide scale is the fact that all members of the
ophiolite complex appear stratigraphically undisturbed. Therefore, and deservedly so, Cyprus is
recognised by the international scientific community as being home to a fragment of oceanic crust
and the Earths upper mantle, recording the complex process of ocean floor spreading and the
formation of oceanic crust.
The unique Troodos ophiolite complex attracts large numbers of geoscientists and the study of the
rocks of Troodos enables them to make conclusions about the conditions that prevailed 8,000 m
beneath the surface of the Neotethyan Ocean some 92 million years ago in the divergent
boundaries between the Eurasia and Africa tectonic plates. The ultimate aim for the scientists is to
understand the processes that are taking place today in the divergent boundaries in the depths of
the recent oceans. These complex natural processes, which are being observed today by the
scientists with the help of special deep water ROVS in very costly undersea missions, were
imprinted on the rocks of the Troodos ophiolite complex where they can be seen above sea level
and are easily accessible. Since the 1960s 120 PhD dissertations and 60 Master thesis have been
conducted on a subject relating to the geology of the Troodos ophiolite, its formation, structure,
evolution, mineralization but more importantly to all the features that help understand oceanic
crust and sea-floor spreading. More than 1000 scientific papers have been published in peer
reviewed journals by geoscientists from Canada, the United States, Europe, Russia, Japan, Hong
Kong, Israel and others.
Besides specially focused field work in the ophiolite by foreign researchers, the wider Troodos area
is the location of many organized university undergraduate field courses. These organized courses
last between 1-3 weeks and are conducted on an annual basis for the fulfilment of the required
undergraduate course of field work. The groups can be small or large depending on the Geology
Department of the foreign university and can reach groups as large as 70 students.
Furthermore, the geology, in combination with the archaeological, ecological, historical and cultural
characteristics of the region, makes the Troodos region a unique geosite that puts it among the rare
geological heritage sites on Earth.
33
C. Geoconservation
C.1 Current or potential pressure on the proposed Geopark
C.1.1. Threats to the natural environment
Local laws on agricultural activity, town planning, protection of the forest, mining, quarrying,
hunting and pasture have to a large degree managed to decrease the pressures on the natural and
geological heritage of the area. Forest fires, being largely caused by human negligence are the
biggest threat. The fires are favoured by the prolonged hot, dry summers, the steep slopes and
dense dry vegetation, these factors being more important during years of prolonged drought.
Forest fires cause among other things, landscape and habitat deterioration, soil erosion, loss of
ecosystem productivity and the death of many birds and animals.
Global climate change is another threat with its direct and exact effects remaining largely unknown.
It is anticipated that decrease in the precipitation or unpredictable extreme climatic events can
cause a variety of phenomena like desertification, flooding and soil erosion with subsequent results
on the landscape and habitats. Illegal capture and killing of birds is also a threat that leads to
considerable reduction of bird populations, and undermines biodiversity. Littering, along the roads
or into ravines constitutes an additional problem, as it results in spoiling the Parks beauty. The
survival of many species is under threat due to the use of pesticides and fertilizers for agricultural
purposes in the park area, causing pollution of stream water, having a negative impact on small
animals whose main habitat is water, like the freshwater crab and various insects.
C.1.2. Threats to the geological and mining heritage
An important threat to the mining heritage is the destruction of old abandoned mining facilities
considered to be significant monuments of the mining heritage of the island. This destruction is
done for the purpose of collecting scrap metal, with the intention to resell it at metal recycling
collection plants. Another threat is the collapse of many mining galleries or their entrance which
makes them dangerous for entry and use. Some open pit mines which are close to communities
have been used as waste disposal sites even if such non-licensed and unsupervised waste refuge is
illegal and strictly penalised.
C.2 Current status in terms of protection of natural environment and geological

sites within the proposed Geopark
The proposed Geopark area houses a very important percentage of the islands biodiversity flora,
fauna and habitats as well as remarkable ecosystems, landscapes and geosites of national and
international significance. In order to protect the natural treasure of the Troodos mountain range, a
protection regime has been implemented to a significant extent of the Geopark based on the
provisions of different government laws. The protection status of the different areas of the Geopark
is presented in the table below.
34
Table C.1: Protection regime in different parts of the Troodos proposed Geopark
Protection
Regime
Name of area
Purpose
Forest conservation
and administration
for multiple purposes
Protection of Nature
and provision of
outdoor recreation
Permanent
protection of nature
hectares
Legal frame
State forests
Adelphi Forest, Troodos Forest and

part of Pafos forest
52.000
Forests Laws and

Regulations
National Forest
Parks (NFP)
Troodos NFP and part of Macheras

NFP
10.400
Forests Laws and

Regulations
Natural
Reserves
Madari, Tripilos and Black Forests
Areas of
Community
Interest (Natura
2000 areas, SCI)
Mitsero, Madari-Papoutsa,
Troodos, Karkotis, Fountoukodasi,
Cedar Valley-Campos, Platis,
Agiatis, Stavros Psokas-Karkavas
and Vouni Panagias
Protection of
biodiversity
Special
Protection
Areas (NATURA
2000 areas,
SPA)
Pafos Forest, Vouni Panagias,

Troodos NFP, Madari-Papoutsa
Protection of wild
birds
28.600
The Protection and

Management of Wild
Birds and Prey Law and
Bird Directive
Areas of
Extraordinary
Natural Beauty
Troodos terrain
Conservation of the
character and
landscapes of the
area
105.700
The Urban and Country

Planning Law
Coasts and
Nature
Protection
Areas
Pafos forest (big part), Madari,

Lagoudera-Polistipos, Agios
Nicolaos Stegis
Protection of nature
11.700

Planning Law
Protected
Geosites
Large number of geosites,

mountain tops, canyons and dams
Protection of
individual elements
of remarkable beauty
Several
small
areas

Planning Law
4.700
30.000
The Forests Laws and

Regulations
The Protection and
Management of
Nature and Wild Life
Law and Habitat
Directive
The Geological Survey Department (GSD) participates in a group of government departments that
provide consultation in the case of large planned development. Such development is usually mining
or quarry leases, new roads, new industries or new tourist infrastructures. These new
developments can be private initiatives or government works. Other government departments that
plan developments always consult with the GSD. In all cases, the GSD provides information or
imposes restrictions on the type and/or location of the proposed development based on geological
or mining heritage it wishes to protect. In addition, the Geological Surveys law (N. 140(I)/2013)
establishes the responsibilities of the GSD amongst which, it is defined as the national curator for
the protection of geomorphosites, fossil collections and geological data archives.
C.3 Data on the management and maintenance of these sites

The above status has been defined based on different government laws and regulations and aims
towards the sustainable development of the area and use of its natural resources as well as the
permanent protection of the geomorphology, character and biodiversity of the whole Geopark
area.
Moreover, within the Geopark activities, several actions are promoted that aim to enhance the
awareness and knowledge of local residents and visitors about the uniqueness of the area and the
35
need to be protected. These are the reasons for allocating an amount of up to 50,000 euros in the
framework of the Rural Development Programme, 2014-2020. These will be used for:
1. Development of infrastructures such as fencing, trails, informational signs, etc for the
protection, interpretation and making accessible to the public important Geosites in the
area of the proposed Geopark.
2. Promotion of the scientific and environmental value of these Geosites through printed
informational leaflets.
C.4 Listing and descriptions of non-geological sites and their integration into the
proposed Geopark
C.4.1. Listing and description of non-geological sites
1. Millomeris Waterfall appears in the sheeted dykes at the south-eastern region of Pano Platres in
the Kryos river.
2. alidonia Waterfall appears in gabbroic rocks and is located 2 km north of the village of Pano
Platres in the Kryos river. It is accessible by a nature trail.
3. The Hantara Waterfall appears in gabbroic rocks and is located in the Phini area. The waterfall
emerges through a wild landscape dominated by trees (plane and pine trees) and bushes and is
very impressive. The waterfall is 8 m in height with a small lake at the bottom.
4. Mesa Potamos Waterfall appears mainly in gabbroic rocks and is situated on the river bed of
Arkolachanias river (Mesa Potamos), northwest of Saittas near the Timios Prodromos Monastery at
an altitude of 1.000 m. The height of the waterfall is 7 meters.
5. Kelefos bridge is a medieval Venetian arched-shaped stone bridge crossing the Dhiarizos river in
the mountains of Pafos.
6. The Medieval Bridge of Roudia is built on the Xeros river in the Pafos forest.
7. The Bridge of Elia is a 5,5 m span and 2,4 m wide arched-shaped, stone bridge over Diarizos
River.
8. The famous Byzantine church of Asinou, an UNESCO World Heritage site, has some of the finest
examples of Byzantine frescoes on the island. The church dates to the early 12th century and the
frescos inside date back from the 12th century to the 17th century (CTO).
9. Situated near the village of Galata, Panagia Podithou is an important church included on
UNESCOs World Heritage list. Erected in 1502, it once belonged to a monastery. Its frescoes are of
the Italo - Byzantine style, which appeared on the island towards the end of the 15th century (CTO).
10. The church of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis (meaning Saint Nicholas of the Roof) near the village of
Kakopetria is completely covered with murals dating from the 11th to the 17th centuries and is
considered as one of the most interesting Byzantine churches on the island (CTO).
11. The monastery is located in the Kalopanagiotis village. This complex consists of three churches
Agios Herakleidios, Agios Ioannis Lampadistis and a Latin chapel, all under the same wooden roof.
The main church was dated from the 11th century. The church of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis was
built in the 12th century above the tomb of the Saint. Later the church collapsed and was rebuilt in
the 18th century. The church of Agios Herakleidios has frescoes from 13th-16th century (CTO).
12. The Church of Stavros tou Ayiasmati is located about 3km outside the village of Platanistasa. It
retains frescoes of the second half of the 15th century.
13. The Panayia tou Araka church in the Lagoudera village retains some of the best wall paintings of
the late Comnenian style (1192) and is included on UNESCOs World Heritage list.
14. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the tiny 13th century chapel Panagia tou Moutoulla has a steep,
pitched wooden roof and frescoes dating to 1280 (CTO).
36
10
Fig.C.1: Photograph numbers refer to the site number as listed in the table C.2.
15. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Church of the Metamorfosis tou Sotiros, was built in the
beginning of the 16th century, on a hill with a view of the beautiful old village of Palaichori (CTO).
16. The church of Archangelos Michael is situated, in the village of Pedoulas inscribed on the
UNESCO World Heritage List. The church was built and decorated with frescoes in 1474.
17. The 14th century church of Timiou Stavrou in Pelendri village is decorated with exquisite wall
paintings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Monument.
37
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/9859798
11
13
16
17
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/66249870
18
19
20
21
18. Machairas Monastery is a historic monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary located about 40 km
from the capital of Cyprus, Lefkosia. It lies at an altitude of about 870 metres on the slopes of
Mount Kionia in a picturesque depression of the Machairas Mountains.
19. The Trooditissa Monastery is located on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains. The
oldest reference to the Monastery is found in a copy of a 14th century deed. The present church,
38
dating to 1731, contains valuable icons including a precious icon of Virgin Mary covered with silvergilt from Asia Minor (CTO).
20. The Timiou Stavrou Monastery (also known as the Monastery of the Holy Cross) was built
during the 17th century and is located in Omodos Village, within the Lemesos district.
21. The Kykkos Monastery was founded in 1100 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It possesses one
of three surviving icons ascribed to Saint Luke, covered in silver gilt, enclosed in a shrine of tortoise
shell and mother-of-pearl, and stands in front of the icon-stand. A museum in the monastery
houses a priceless collection of icons, consecrated vessels, manuscripts and Cypriot antiquities.
22. In the areas of Papoutsa, Madari, Troodos and Pafos forest, natural forests unique to Cyprus are
formed with different species of juniper.
23. In the area of Tripylos in the Pafos Forests, the globally unique natural cedar (Cedrus brevifolia)
forests are created. The species has been classified as a priority habitat and is protected.
24. Serpentinophilous grasslands are created in open spaces on the serpentinized rocks of Troodos.
This habitat is a botanical paradise as it accommodates a large number of rare, endangered and
endemic plants which have adapted to the special conditions created by this geological substrate.
They are found at the 1600-1900 m altitude.
25. Troodos Peat Grassland is a natural habitat which is extremely rare and endangered at
European level. It is formed in two neighbouring areas in the Troodos National Forest Park where
depressions remain saturated for most of the year.
26. Tree Monument (perennial). These are individual trees of great age and significance of the
natural and cultural heritage for the communities that host them.
27. The Cypriot moufflon (Ovis orientalis ophion) is the most important species of mammal which
lives in the Pafos Forest and travels up to the edges of the Troodos National Forest Park. This
species is protected on a national and European level.
28. Skouriotissa slag heap. A large slag deposit (2 million tonnes) is found in Skouriotissa. 14C dating
indicates pyrometallurgical activities from 2000 BC to AD 500.
39
Table C.2: List of non-geological sites
Waterfall
Serial
No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
Name
Myllomeris Waterfall
Kalidonia Waterfall
Chantara Waterfall
Mesa Potamos Waterfall
Venetian Bridges
Name
Tzielefos Bridge
Roudias Bridge
Elias Bridge
UNESCO Churches
Name
Panagia tis Asinou
Panagia tis Podythou
Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis
Ayios Ioannis Lampadistis
Stavros tou Ayiasmati
Panagia tou Araka
Panagia tou Moutoulla
Metamorfosis tou Sotiros
Archangelos Michail
Timiou Stavrou
Monasteries
Name
Machairas Monastery
Trooditissa Monastery
Timios Stavros Monastery
Kykkos Monastery
Forests and Fauna
Name
Juniper forests
Cyprus Cedar Forests
Serpentinophilous grasslands
of Troodos
25
Troodos Peat Grasslands
26
27
28
Tree Monument (perennial)

Cypriot moufflon
Skouriotissa Slag heap
Location Coordinates
(WGS84)
Village
East
North
487696
488127
485450
491561
3860171
3862285
3862506
3861152
Pano Platres
Pano Platres
Foini
Moniatis
476909
471186
479370
3860850
3860891
3861506
Agios Nikolaos
Vretsia
Foini
497580
490503
489912
484503
504287
500668
483950
508667
484609
496918
3878184
3873467
3870498
3872193
3870720
3869217
3871135
3864385
3869474
3861189
Nikitari
Galata
Kakopetria
Kalopanagiotis
Platanistasa
Lagoudera
Moutoullas
Palaichori Oreinis
Pedoulas
Pelendri
517424
485240
482539
3866494
3863402
3856204
Name
Lazanias
Foini
Omodos
499560
471520
3868183
3870156
Madari Ridge
Pafos Forests
487629
3866076
Mount Olympus
490687
490748
3864780
3865875
Almyrolivado and Livadi Pashia
466272
489430
3875844
3883786
See Appendix
Stavros tis Psokas
Skouriotissa
40
D. Economic Activity & Business Plan

D.1 Economic Activity
D.1.1. Tourism activity in the proposed Geopark
Due to its particular characteristics and more specifically its cooler climate during the summer, the
attractive landscapes, the fresh air and the opportunities for direct connection and interaction with
nature, the area receives the largest number of visitors compared to other mountainous areas on
the island. It has been calculated that the Geopark area receives more than 100.000 visitors every
year. 90% of those are Cypriots, citizens of European countries and Russians.
The area has tourist infrastructure to accommodate visitors in 4 and 3 star hotel resorts but also
traditional agro-tourism housing. Within the limits of the proposed Geopark area, there are 30
hotels with 1.700 beds and 40 traditional houses. There is also a large number of restaurants (300),
many of which are traditional taverns and cafes (400) operating in the area. Other smaller
businesses (mostly family owned) are mainly souvenir shops with traditional products, horse riding
and bicycle rental companies. The tourism activities in the area have a wide range and can be
separated to the following pylons:
Nature Tourism: Due to rich and diverse habitats and natural monuments such as water falls,
springs, botanical gardens, valleys, gorges, perennial trees and geosites which host several endemic
species under protection, the Geopark attracts tourists with special and specific interests.
Cultural Tourism: Monuments of historical significance from all periods demonstrate the unique
value of the area. In addition, tradition and modern history of the area (folklore, customs, cultural
heritage, local agricultural and manufacturing, crafts, handcrafts etc) are a unique opportunity to
meet and understand the Cypriot folklore. Also, a unique experience for the tourists is the cuisine
of the area which brings together a wide variety of traditional authentic flavours.
Religious Tourism: The area has a large number of byzantine and post byzantine religious
monuments, many of which are included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list. In addition,
some of these monuments house ecclesiastical museums.
Conference Tourism: The area is suitable for seminars, meetings, events and conferences. Several
conferences are organised every year in large hotel units and municipality conference rooms.
Health Tourism: The mild climate conditions offer the opportunity for medicinal, health and
wellbeing tourism when also taking the authentic hospitality of the locals into consideration.
D.1.2. Production of Local Produce
The Troodos mountainous communities are famous for their authentic products produced with love
and care, their local customs and traditions. The communities of the Pitsilia District have a long
tradition of preserving meat with salt and wine for the production of cold cuts using local varieties.
Some of the best known products produced in the Pitsilia district are cured ham, sausages, lountza,
bacon and tsamarella. It is noteworthy that an application has been made to patent the Pitsilia
sausages, lountza and posirti (cured ham) to the specific geographical area as products of
protected geographical indication while at the same time the same process is being prepared for
patenting tsamarella and the traditional rose sweet made from local roses (Rosa damascena). In
addition, the tsamarella produced in the area has received a Presidium award by the Slow Food
41
Foundation for Biodiveristy. Due to the characteristics of the product, it is listed today amongst
the top 300 distinguished traditional products worldwide in a database consisting of 70.000
traditional products. Due to this distinction, the recipe has been standardised and certified as one
of an authentic, traditional, local product. Visitors have the opportunity to visit the local production
units, observe the processing procedure and taste the local produce.
The mountainous communities are also known for the processing of agricultural products and the
production of spoon sweets made with candied fruits and vegetables, jams, dried fruits and nuts,
liquors and pickled products. The Agros community, specifically, produces high quality homemade
sweets and jams. In addition, the community is famous for the processing of roses and the
production of rose water, rose spoon sweet and rose jam as well as other rose based products.
Other communities, such as Galata and Omodos, are more known for baking. Omodos is well
known specifically for its production of Arkatena (chickpea husks). Dairy products have until
recently been part of the everyday life of the local people. Some of the dairy products produced in
the area today are halloumi, fresh and dry anari cheese and yoghurt.
Lastly, Cyprus is known abroad as the homeland of the oldest wine in the Mediterranean,
koumandaria, the production of which has never stopped. The Troodos district includes
communities and villages famous for their production of wine, koumandaria and zivania they are
called wine or koumandaria villages. Several of the local wines produced at the 15 wineries that
operate in the geopark have been awarded in international competitions. A traveller can visit the
wineries operating in the area and taste the local wine and local grape products such as raisins,
soutzouko, palouze, kiofteri, pastellaki etc. The village of Marathasa is known for its various
traditional grape products such as wine, zivania, soutzouko but also for its production of nuts.
The residents, despite the difficult conditions continue to produce agricultural products like olives,
olive-oil, seasonal fruits (apples, peaches, cherries, pears, grapes, kiwis, plums, almonds, hazelnuts,
walnuts) and vegetables. For the promotion of their agricultural products the producers establish in
2009 the Producer Organisation of Pitsilias-Troodos. Apart from the well-known rural products
(wine and its by-products, cold cuts, sweets, liquors, jams, breads, herbs etc.), the area also
produces a variety of traditional handicrafts like the Foini village (pottery, basketry etc.).
In the proposed geopark numerous companies produce bottled water from natural springs or
boreholes. Another economic activity in the area, are the quarrying plants at Mitsero and Farmakas
villages which produce aggregates for the construction industry.
D.2 Existing and planned facilities for the proposed Geopark

D.2.1. Geotourism and Tourism Infrastructures
Troodos proposed Geopark Visitor Centre
The Geopark Visitor Centre is located within the area of the Asbestos Mine and is housed in the
fully renovated building of the Pano Amiantos village elementary school (Fig. D.1). The building has
a total area of 355 m2 consisting of 10 separate rooms (with fireplaces), an interior courtyard and
the reception room. Primarily, the building operated as the headquarters of Cyprus Asbestos
Mines Ltd" and later as an elementary school. The building was restored in 2013 under the
supervision of the Department of Forests for a total cost of 520.000. At the Centre, a visitor is
informed about all themes relating to the Geopark and is able to obtain printed information
42
material regarding the scheduled events and activities. The centre consists of 2 rooms with rock
and mineral exhibits for the geology, 2 rooms with mining heritage exhibits, 2 rooms with natural
environment exhibits, a large projection room that can sit 25 persons for the 20-minute
documentary, a reception area that also serves as an office and a retail shop. The shop sells
traditional products (handmade pottery, wood crafts, stone sculptures), drinks and delicacies
produced within the Geopark, books, the documentary on the genesis of the Troodos ophiolite
(DVD), post cards and other products.
Fig. D.1: The proposed Geopark Visitors Centre and floor plan of the building.
The location of the Geopark Visitors Centre is considered to be excellent because it is located in the
centre of the Geopark and the Troodos forest itself, close to communities with hotels and other
types of accommodation. It is near the central offices of the Managing Operator, which are located
in Evrychou village. It is in the same area with the Botanical Garden and very close to the Troodos
Environmental Information Centre (Department of Forests) and in a big, open space which belongs
to the State. An existing path between proposed Geopark Centre and Botanical Garden will be
transformed into a safe and easily accessible walking path to connect the two buildings.
Geopark Website
The Geopark website at http://www.troodos-geo.org includes information about the areas
geology, geosites, flora and fauna, habitats, Geopark events and news, Training/educational
programs for schools, Scientific Programs, Tourist packages, Information leaflets, products on sale
at the Visitor Centre shop, photographic records and links to other websites.
Troodos Environmental Information Centre
It is situated near the Troodos Square and is run by the Department of Forests. Its exhibits and
services aim to inform the visitor about the importance and unique character of the Forest, various
environmental issues, recreational facilities available and activities which are permitted in the Park.
The Centre has a reception area with a small shop, an exhibition gallery and a film theatre. A
botanical trail is also connected to the building.
Tourism Information Centre
The Cyprus Tourism Organization (CTO) maintains a tourist information centre in the village of Pano
Platres. It is visited by about 10.000 tourists per year.
Address: Olympou 4C, 4820 Pano Platres
Tel.: 00357-25421316, Fax: 00357-25813080, Email: platresinfooffice@visitcyprus.com
43
Nature trails, Picnic sites and Camping sites
To satisfy the increasing demand for nature and forest recreation tourism, the government and
local authorities have developed a large number of facilities including at least 47 nature study trails,
19 picnic sites, 3 public camping sites (see Appendix). The area is also crossed by part of the E4
European trail which starts at Gibraltar and ends in Cyprus. The Cyprus Tourism Organization,
making use of structural funds, has designed a network of cycling trails in Troodos as well as
thematic routes for wine and of byzantine Cyprus.
The Botanical Garden
Located in the abandoned and now restored Asbestos Mine it is a garden with a variety of
indigenous plants and trees and a small visitor centre. It is located 1 km from the proposed Geopark
Visitor Centre. Tel: 25-550091
The Artist Solomos Frangoulides Museum
Located in Agros, the museum displays rough drafts as well as complete works by the artist. Tel: 25521201, 99-436313
Ecclesiastical museums
Located in the villages of Agridia, Agros, Kalopanagiotis, Koilani, Kykkos monastery, Kyperounta,
Omodos, Palaichori and Pedoulas, these house collections of icons and other ecclesiastical objects.
Folk Art Museum
Located in Galata, Koilani, Kyperounta and Omodos villages. A shoe maker museum is located in
Spilia village.
Pylavakion pottery museum
Located in Foini village, it is a private collection displaying examples of local pottery, traditional
agricultural tools and early 20th century household items.
Fikardou Rural museum
A deserted village declared as an ancient monument and carefully restored to preserve its 18th
century houses. Two such houses known as the Katsinioros and Achilleas Dimitris residences
host an interesting rural museum presenting exhibits from the agricultural life in Cyprus as well as
traditional weaving. The two buildings have been awarded the Europa Nostra architecture.
Organised Ski Facilities
Troodos ski resort is located on the Chionistra summit and includes small slopes (average 300 m),
chair lifts, ski shop and cafeteria. It is operated only during the winter months.
D.2.2. Geo-education for Elementary Schools and High Schools
An educational geological demonstration kit with informative material regarding rocks, minerals
and sediments of the area as well as the flora found along the chromium-themed natural trail
(Atalanti, around the Olympus mountain). This material will be used by educators during school
visits within the Centre and during outdoor lessons along the trail. Prior to taking the students to
the chromium trail, students and teachers will be informed about the areas geology by the
Geopark geologist in the Visitors Centre and about the areas flora by the Department of Forests
staff in the Botanical Garden.
44
The Cyprus Ministry of Education and the School of Secondary Technical and Vocational Education
(STVE) of Lemythou village are ready to offer a wide range of programme subjects and professional
specialisations. In the discussions is participating and the Troodos District Development Agency
(TDDA). The vigour and speed with which the economy of Cyprus is changing pushed STVE and
TDDA to negotiate with the Cyprus Ministry of Education to offer a wide range of programme
subjects and professional specialisations. These must correspond with current concentrations of
economic activity and address the newly-arising needs and standards of the greater Cypriot
economy. The study areas and specialisations of STVE are concentrated under two headings:
Theoretical and Practical Studies. The selected studies will deal with the following subjects: beekeeping, agriculture, forestry, construction of wooden objects, food & beverage industry.
The old renovated elementary school of the Pedoulas village is the location of the Environmental
Education Centre which is operated by the Cyprus Pedagogical Institute of the Ministry of Education
and Culture. It is the first Centre to be organized on the basis of investigating and analyzing
environment in a holistic view through open-ended procedures and receives 10.000 elementary
school-aged children per year on an organised basis. An important aspect of this Centre is that the
local community is a core and active member in various Environmental Programs of the Centre.
Furthermore, the school community has the opportunity to interact with the wider local
community in order to investigate issues which have a global content as well as an impact on their
local setting.
D.3 Analysis of geotourism potential of the proposed Geopark

Cyprus is famous for its sandy beaches and its cultural and religious tourism. It attracts about 1,5-2
million tourists, all year round but mostly during the summer months. The most significant part of
the tourist infrastructure exists on the coast of the island. The potential for geotourism in the
proposed Troodos Geopark is 2-fold. A large potential exists for attracting the already large
numbers of visitors to the Troodos mountains but also for developing the newly emerging
geotourism. The tourism activities in the area of the proposed Geopark shows significant diversity
due to unique geology of worldwide interest, rich flora and fauna, particular climate conditions and
rich mining and cultural heritage. It is the main forested area of Cyprus, the biggest National Forest
Park and botanical garden of the island due to its rich biodiversity.
One of the main aims of the Tourism Development Strategy is the promotion of particular types of
tourism which focus on geology, nature and culture. The creation and integration of the Troodos
proposed Geopark in the European Geopark Network contributes to the enrichment of the tourist
product and the development of Geotourism.
The proposed Geopark attracts a Geotourism clientele consistent with all the concepts of
Nature/Rural Tourism and supports the protection and promotion of the geological, scientific,
cultural, archaeological, historical and ecological interest of the region. It encourages the local
people to be actively involved in the financial revitalization of the area promoting the creation and
revival of old products of the cultural and geological heritage.
Geotourism is closely linked to the provision of a complete tourist experience with opportunities to
stay in traditional and other types of resorts, to taste traditional cuisine and local products, to
explore thematic routes (wine, religious) and nature trails, to become involved in local activities etc.
45
D.2: Wine festival
D.3: Zivania festival
D.4: Apple festival
D.5: Shepherd festival
D.6: Pottery
D.9: Hiking
D.7: Chair making
D.8: Archery
D.10: Cycling
Fig.D.2-10: Photographs of cultural events and various activities in the area of the proposed Geopark.
The Mountainous Resorts of the area are also distinguished for their rich cultural heritage especially
when it comes to folklore, byzantine and religious monuments. It is worth noting that 10 churches
46
located in the area are included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list. The picturesque
villages maintain their architectural character, their customs and traditions until today. The cultural
events and activities during the whole year are closely connected to the agricultural products of
each season and each specific area (Fig.D. 2-5). Characteristic activities are: traditional art and
recipe workshops, visits to folklore museums, iconography, embroidery, pottery (Fig.D.6), basketry,
traditional chair manufacturing (Fig.D.7), study of flora and fauna and geology, hiking (Fig.D.8),
fishing, cycling (Fig.D.9), horse riding and archery (Fig.D.10).
Within the framework of the European program European Destinations of Excellence
implemented by the CTO and co-funded by the European Commission, Troodos has been declared
as the Best Emerging Rural Destination Cyprus. Troodos along with 9 other winner destinations
are being projected through a Europe wide campaign by the European Union and the CTO.
Visitors have the opportunity to taste the local cuisine in awarded taverns and wineries which offer
internationally awarded wines. Cypriot cuisine is an important tourist product where gastronomy
has remained strictly traditional since local products are used for the making of delicacies. A visitor
can try a variety of traditional flavours and products which are especially famous, such as halloumi,
koupepia (stuffed vine leafs), afelia, krasata, seftalies, lountza, zivania, palouze and Cypriot wine,
and at the same time a large variety of greens, wild mushrooms and wild vegetables cooked and
served in a variety of ways.
Consequently, the area provides various possibilities to a visitor who can enjoy a relaxing holiday or
get involved in physical and spiritual activities of many forms, learning about significant elements of
the geopark nature, geology, history and culture. The area is a unique geotourism destination due
to the diversity and composition of its natural environment and cultural resources.
D.4 Overview and policies for the sustainable development of geo-tourism, geoeducation and geo-heritage
D.4.1. Overview and policies for the sustainable development of geo-tourism, geo-education
and geo-heritage
The Geopark Visitors Centre provides organised tours on different thematic activities such as
geology, mining heritage, flora and fauna, cultural heritage, etc, in collaboration with travel
agencies, hotels, CTO and local authorities. The tours will be performed by the staff of the Visitors
Centre and when needed with the help of experts of the Department of Forests (DF) and the
Geological Survey Department (GSD). Also, self-employed, scientists or tour guides who live in the
area and have authorization by the CTO, they will be trained in various subjects relating to the
Geopark from the experts of GSD and DF.
The DF with the cooperation of the GSD, is involved with ongoing construction of several nature
trails (Appendix) with informational signs for the flora and geology including various type of
habitats, geosites and abandoned mines with galleries. The main objective is to promote the
knowledge and awareness of the visitors for the natural environment and geology of the Troodos
area. These nature trails will promote:
Geotourism.
Scientific research and environmental education as it provides access to inaccessible areas.
Contribution to the sustainable economic development of the area by promoting and other
related activities such as mountain biking, hiking, fishing, hunting etc.
47
The GSD through the plan of the Government of Cyprus for the development of Troodos area is
planning to promote the:
Improvement of all geosites for safe access, parking, with informational leaflets and signs.
This will give more encouragement to the various Academic Institutes to visit the Troodos
area for the training of their students.
Creating open-air geological museum in facilities of abandoned mines and restoration of
abandoned mine galleries by attracting private companies to invest money.
Declaration of new areas of great geological value within and outside the Geopark limits as
natural monuments and prohibition of any human interference.
Continuous environmental restoration of old sites and abandoned mines according to recent
studies of the GSD.
Protection and preservation of abandoned mines for educational purposes in collaboration
with the local communities.
Create educational accommodation to students in abandoned buildings with cooperation
with the Department of Forests, local authorities and financial sectors of the area.
Organising educational excursions for schools and universities.
Specifically for the area of the Asbestos Mine where the proposed Geopark Visitor Centre and
Botanical Garden are located, the GSD has a long and important history for its restoration and now,
its sustainable development. The Technical Committee for the Restoration of the Asbestos Mine,
founded in 1994 is chaired by the GSD. The restoration includes slope-stability measures with relandscaping of the slopes, reforestation and re-vegetation, restoration of several industrial
buildings and more recently the design of a Broader Master Plan for the area of the mine. For
securing the sustainable development of this area, various studies such as the Risk Assessment
study due to fibrous minerals in the broader air which provided positive results, another
assessment due to the presence of the mine and annual measurements of the air-borne chrysotile
asbestos fibre are conducted.
D.4.2. Continuous promotion of the Geopark
Establishment of a Geopark Day carrying out events, competitions and awards.
Establishment of international conferences and workshops for subjects focusing on flora and
fauna e.g. Vulture Day and Endangered Plants Day (e.g. Chionodaxa lochiae) for the
awareness and informing of worldwide public.
Distribution of informational material for the Troodos proposed Geopark to international
rural and tourism exhibitions in Cyprus and overseas in cooperation with the CTO.
Participation in international, Geopark related conferences and workshops.
Exchange residents with other Geoparks.
D.5 Policies for, and examples of, community empowerment in the proposed
Geopark
For the empowerment of the local community the proposed Geopark Visitor Centre is planning to
develop the following cooperations:
Cooperation with local travel agents and travel offices for holiday packages and organization
of excursions and tours relating to geology, flora and fauna.
Training of the local people as walking guides.
48
Motivation of residents of the area to revitalize old professions by utilizing traditional

materials for the creation of Geopark products (handicraft souvenirs, pottery, carving, chair
making, basketry, sculpting etc).
Cooperation with hotels and restaurants near the Geopark to promote the local cuisine.
Promotion of traditional products in cooperation with local businesses such as vineries,
meat cold-cut factories, traditional sweet and delicacy manufactories etc baring the
Geopark logo.
Collaboration with local communities and relevant ministries so that motivation is given to
citizens for preservation and revival of old architecture.
Cooperation with local authorities for the organization of various festivals and workshops
for the promotion of traditional forms of art, products, delicacies, etc.
D.6 Policies for, and examples of, public and stakeholder awareness in the
proposed Geopark
In the framework of the European Project "Geotourism and local development: Crete Itanos
Mountains / Mountain Troodos Cyprus," of the Cross-Border Cooperation Programme GreeceCyprus, 2007 -2013, with acronym "GEO.TOPI.A" has prepared all the necessary infrastructures for
the operation of the Troodos proposed Geopark. These infrastructures are the Geopark Visitors
Centre, the webpage (http://www.troodos-geo.org/), three geo-trails for geo-education (Artemis,
Atalanti & Teisia tis Madaris), an eco-touristic guide, a map, posters and informational leaflets, a
documentary film about the geology and natural environment of Troodos and an educational
demonstration kit for the schools.
A major goal of the proposed Geopark is the information and awareness of the public about the
importance of the protection of the natural environment and the geosites around the Troodos
mountain range and their use for the development of geotouristic business activities related to the
cultural, geological and mining heritage of the area. The informational leaflets, posters,
demonstration kit and documentary were made for that purpose.
The Geological Survey Department (GSD) and the Department of Forests (DF) share the idea, that
the best operators for the proposed Geopark are the people of these mountainous communities
themselves. That is why it was decided that the Troodos District Development Agency (TDDA) is the
appropriate operator for the proposed Geopark Visitor Centre.
The TDDA with the Tourism Development Board company have begun a campaign to inform the
public in all the events that they are participating in Cyprus and overseas, about the establishment
of the Troodos proposed Geopark and the new dynamic that it will give to the area. It should be
noted that the GSD and the DF following the same policy for the awareness of the people have
published various articles in newspapers and magazines and a radio program. In 2015, the GSD is
planning to make a program for the Troodos proposed Geopark on television on the show of
YPAITHROS (meaning countryside) of The Cyprus Broadcasting Cooperation RIK, which is a show
that concerns the farmers of Cyprus. In addition, the GSD has already begun various public events
for promoting public awareness about the proposed Geopark and its significance for the
sustainable development of the local economy based on the cultural, geological and mining
heritage. Examples of such public events are, lectures about the geopark and its worldwide
significance geology and presentation of the documentary at village cultural centres and schools.
49
Fig.D.11: Lecture in the Botanical Garden for the proposed Geopark and a visit in the nature trail Teisia tis Madaris.
Development of information material in hard copy and electronic forms

Link of Geopark website with other related websites such as the CTO, Cyprus Airways, Travel
Agents and Offices, Hotels etc.
Informative leaflets for nature trails, important geosites, flora and fauna
Display information material on websites and information boards in local communities and
government departments (CTO, radio and televisions, Agrotis regarding the Troodos
proposed Geopark and various organized events.
Ecotourism guide.
Tourist guides and maps
Fig. D.12: Photographs of the demonstration kit and the ecotouristic guide.
E. Interest and arguments for joining the EGN/GGN

E.1 The significance of integrating the proposed Geopark in the European Geopark
network
The integration of the Troodos proposed Geopark into the European Geopark Network is expected
to generate huge benefits for the promotion, exposure and financial revitalization of the area. A big
portion of European Geopark visitors are prospective tourists for Cyprus thus possible visitors for
the Troodos proposed Geopark. The European Geopark Network webpage, the bulletins proposed
50
by the network, the occasional conferences, the leaflets produced for educational institutions and
other bodies and all other types of events are the most important tools to be used for ensuring
wider projection. In addition, the projection and promotion possibility of Geopark products through
the network may contribute to their financial development and support.
In conclusion, the integration of the proposed Troodos proposed Geopark into the European
Geopark Network can be considered a positive step forward for the protection of the inlands
natural heritage, education and development of Geotourism and thus of Rural Tourism as a whole.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bragina, L.G., & Bragin, N.Yu. (2006). Stratigraphy and radiolarians of the Upper Cretaceous
sedimentary cover of the Arakapas ophiolite massif (Cyprus), Stratigr. Geol. Korrelyatsiya, vol.
14, no. 5, p. 507523.
Bragina, L. G. (2013). New radiolaria of the family Pseudodictyomitridae from the ConiacianSantonian of the Perapedhi Formation of southern Cyprus. Paleontological Journal, Volume
47, Issue 5, p. 457-462.
Bttner, G. & Kosztra, B. (2007). CLC2006 Technical guidelines. Technical Report No. 17/2007. EEA.
Available from http://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/technical_report_2007_17
Constantinou G., Xenophontos C., Kramvis S., Afrodisis S., Michailidis P. & Panayides . (1997). The
Geology of Cyprus. Cyprus Geological Survey Department, Bulletin No. 10, p.142 (in Greek).
Edwards S.J., Edwards H.-E. K., Cann J.R., Malpas J., & Xenophontos C. (2010). Classic Geology in
Europe 7, Cyprus. (Terra).
Geological Survey Department (2003). Information Bulletin: Restoring the Environment: Asbestos
Mine , Cyprus.
Geological Survey Department (2005). Information Bulletin: Copper and Copper Mines in Cyprus.
Given, M., Kassianidou V. & Sereti, K. (2002). On the trail of the Ancients. History and Archaeology
of the Mountain Region in Central Cyprus. By members of the Sydney Cyprus Survey Project,
p. 49.
Humphris S.E. & McCollum T. (1998). The Cauldron beneath the seafloor: Percolating through
volcanic subsurface rocks, seawater is chemically transformed into hydrothermal fluid.
Oceanus, 41(2), 1821.
Kassianidou, V. (2004). The production and export of Cypriot copper in the Later Chalcolithic Era.
Minutes from the conference on Ancient Greek Technology and Craft, 21-23 March 2003,
Ohlstadt, Germany, p. 67-84.
Massoth G.J., Milburn H.B., Hammond S.R., Butterfield D.A., McDuff R.E. & Lupton J.E. (1988). The
geochemistry of submarine venting fluids at Axial Volcano, Juan de Fuca Ridge: New sampling
methods and a VENTS program rationale. In: (eds.) M.P. DeLuca & I. Babb, Global Venting,
Midwater, and Benthic Ecological Processes, NURP Research Report, 88-4, 29-59.
51

TroodosGeoparkApplication Revised WWW

Diunggah oleh

Informasi Dokumen

Deskripsi Asli:

Judul Asli

Hak Cipta

Format Tersedia

Bagikan dokumen Ini

Bagikan atau Tanam Dokumen

Opsi Berbagi

Apakah menurut Anda dokumen ini bermanfaat?

Apakah konten ini tidak pantas?

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

TroodosGeoparkApplication Revised WWW

Diunggah oleh

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

1

A. Identification of the area

Fig.A. 2: Borders of the 110 municipalities in the Troodos proposed Geopark

Fig.A.3 : Land use map of the Geopark Area (CORINE 2006).

Cultural and historical elements

A.3 Organization in charge and management structure

Fig. A.5: Organogram of the Troodos proposed Geopark

Geopark Coordinating Committee

Personnel (1 full time contract)

A.4 Application contact person

B.2 General geological description

Fig.B.4: Stratigraphic column of the Troodos ophiolite

The Mantle Sequence

Fig. B.5:Harzburgite around the Mount Olympus area.

Fig.B.7: Cruciform figurines from the Chalcolithic Period in Cyprus.

Sheeted Dyke Complex

Fig.B.12: Wehrlite (left) and pyroxenite (right).

The Sheeted Dyke Complex (Diabase)

The Volcanic Rocks

Fig.B.16: Upper Pillow Lavas (left) and zeolites (right).

The Lower Horizon is formed mainly

Fig.B.18: Volcanic heat at the mid-ocean ridge axis drives

These deposits have been formed on the Tethys

Fig.B.20:Umbers of the Pera Pedi Formation.

The Pera Pedi Formation is composed of

The autochthonous sedimentary cover of Troodos

C.2 Current status in terms of protection of natural environment and geological

Adelphi Forest, Troodos Forest and

Forests Laws and

Troodos NFP and part of Macheras

Forests Laws and

Madari, Tripilos and Black Forests

Pafos Forest, Vouni Panagias,

The Protection and

The Urban and Country

Pafos forest (big part), Madari,

The Urban and Country

Large number of geosites,

The Urban and Country

The Forests Laws and

C.3 Data on the management and maintenance of these sites

Troodos Peat Grasslands

Tree Monument (perennial)

Almyrolivado and Livadi Pashia

D. Economic Activity & Business Plan

D.2 Existing and planned facilities for the proposed Geopark

D.3 Analysis of geotourism potential of the proposed Geopark

D.2: Wine festival

D.3: Zivania festival

D.4: Apple festival

D.5: Shepherd festival

D.7: Chair making

Motivation of residents of the area to revitalize old professions by utilizing traditional

Development of information material in hard copy and electronic forms

E. Interest and arguments for joining the EGN/GGN

Anda mungkin juga menyukai