Established in 1971, the Park is protected under the Natura 2000 network. The park's lush vegetation includes one of the largest pine forests in Attica, a wide variety of typical Mediterranean plants and two endemic species of knapweed (Centaurea Laureotica and Centaurea Attica), named after Centaur Chiron, who taught the art of healing to Asclepius, according to Greek mythology. Local fauna includes many bird species, reptiles and mammals, while it was a preferred hunting site in the past, when it was inhabited by boars and deer. Otto, the fist king of the modern Greek State established in 1832, is said to have been hunting in the area.
Various karstic formations found within the park have revealed numerous plant and animals fossils, testifying to the existence of species that are currently extinct. In addition, the astonishingly rich geology of the area, boasting almost 260 types of minerals some of which are exclusive to Lavreotiki, gave birth to an intense mining and metallurgical activity dating back to the Neolithic era.
Thus, the entire area is scattered with remains of ancient mines, shafts and metal-processing workshops, houses and cisterns, left there to be discovered by modern visitors. A typical example of Mediterranean landscape and biodiversity with an indisputable importance for the microclimate of Attica, the Sounion National Park is a site of unique natural and historical value that will make your visit worthwhile.
