From the Ground to the Public: Old and New Fossil Discoveries from Kefalonia–Ithaca UNESCO Global Geopark and Their Value in Research, Education, and Local Palaeontological Heritage

Abstract

Fossils play a crucial role in geoparks contributing to their scientific, educational and recreational aspects. The purpose of the project “Study and promotion of the palaeontological heritage of Kefalonia–Ithaca UNESCO Global Geopark” is the overall consideration of the palaeontological record of the geopark and its utilization with a holistic approach. Excavations took place in 11 new excavation sites and a total of more than 1000 specimens were recovered belonging to 13 major groups (ammonites, barnacles, belemnitida, bivalves, brachiopods, corals, fish, foraminifera, gastropods, plant leaves, rudists, scaphopods, and sea urchins). After being conserved and identified by the scientific staff, the specimens, along with replicas, were exhibited in two newly developed exhibitions at the Information Centres. The exhibitions were inspired by science labs as spaces of exploration, research, discovery and experience. Moreover, an educational package was prepared consisting of different activities for all ages. It presents how life, landscapes, and climate have changed over time and how living things responded to those changes.