Description of the attraction
Crete Aquarium, or Sea World, is a public aquarium located near the town of Gournes, 15 km east of Heraklion. Previously, this territory was the location of the US Air Force air base.
The project of the aquarium was conceived by the staff of the former Institute of Marine Biology of Crete as the first large aquarium in Greece. Its construction was co-financed by the European Investment Bank and the Greek state. The main goals of this project were the creation of a marine park for scientific research, education, culture and recreation, as well as the collection, exchange and dissemination of information about the underwater world and its inhabitants. Particular attention is paid to educational programs for primary and junior schools, which are designed taking into account the level of students. The aquarium is run by the Hellenic Marine Research Center and draws on the experience, knowledge and innovative technology of scientists over the past 20 years.
Crete Aquarium first opened its doors to visitors in December 2005. In 2008-2009, work was carried out to expand the exhibition area. The aquarium features a gorgeous exposition of the marine fauna of the entire Mediterranean region. In more than 60 special containers of various sizes, you can see more than 250 species of a wide variety of marine organisms: sharks, seahorses, octopuses, clown fish, starfish, jellyfish and many other inhabitants of the underwater depths of various colors and shapes. Each aquarium has a sign with information in 10 languages.
By visiting the Aquarium of Crete, you will take a fascinating walk through the mysterious depths of the Mediterranean Sea. The aquarium will be interesting for both children and adults. This place is rightfully considered one of the best aquariums in Europe.
