The Kavo Gkreko visitor center was officially opened on 27.05.2017. It is a key initiative to provide quality information for environmental education for the public. The environmental center provides a valuable resource for classroom teachers, parents, educators and of course tourist that visit the island of Cyprus. Kavo Gkreko is located at the Southeastern coast of the island and is positioned between Ayia Napa and Protaras.
The area is protected and is declared a Natural Forest Park and a Natura 2000 site which means this area is selected to ensure the long – term survival of Europes most valuable and threatened species and habitats. It helps ensure the conservation of a wide range or rare, threatened endemic plant and animal species.
Exhibits on display provide a fabulous selection of:
- Vegetal and Animal Species
- Regional Geology
- Fossils
- Aquariums with marine habitats which host fish of the region
- Insects
- Butterflies
An abundance of information for all and a great insight into the region.
The architectural design that was chosen in a competition in 2016 is a great example of Mediterranean architecture. The building is not dominating the area but rather blends perfectly into this unique landscape. Materials are chosen carefully to replicate the colours of the area and become one with nature. A viewpoint inside the building is created in form of a huge window hanging out the building to offer stunning views to the surrounding landscape and beyond where the pleasant natural environment blends with the breathtaking blue Mediterranean Sea.
Gabions
Gabion walls which are wire mesh baskets filled with rocks were used in the architectural and landscape design. They give a grand structural effect and give texture which blends into the existing surroundings.
Landscape design
The landscape design replicates nature at its best. Plants are placed with great consideration of position and future development, to create a design that is mimicking the surrounding landscape.
”Good design is obvious. Great design is transparent”. Joe Sparano
The use of the common thatching grass (Hyparrhenia hirta) provides movement, texture, and beauty when waving in the wind. It is a plant that usually grows along the roadside and is perceived as a nasty brown weed. Too little attention is given to its natural beauty and the always recurring flower heads. A versatile plant that definitely is one of our favorites and well positioned in the landscape adds to an interesting design outcome.
The whole project at Cape Gkreko is a great example of public spaces that educate us and spread awareness of the landscape, its history and biodiversity.
