'AEGEAN ∙ The Birth of an Archipelago' now in Rome

'AEGEAN ∙ The Birth of an Archipelago', an exposition on the Aegean Sea and its influence on Hellenic life which was previously hosted in Athens, is coming to Rome. This reports The Greek Reporter. The exhibition in Rome is part of a series of Greek events organized in Rome in the framework of the World Exhibition EXPO 2015 in Italy, May 1 through October 31. It's hosted at the Exhibition Centre Vittoriano in Rome as of February 16.

The 'Aegean' exhibition is split into three sections. The first goes back to the beginning, telling the story of how Aegeis, a vast landmass that emerged from the Tethys Ocean, emerged from the Tethys and eventually broke up to become the Aegean, explains Zouros. Intense volcanic activity in the region and how this shaped the archipelago through the eons is the subject of the second section, which explains how the still-active volcanoes of Santorini, Nisyros, Methana and Sousaki in Corinthia, which form the Aegean Volcanic Arc, helped shape islands such as Milos, Lemnos, Santorini, Kimolos and Samothraki. The third section explores ecosystems in the region by explaining the evolution of its biodiversity through displays of primal flora and fauna – such as a short-necked giraffe from Chios, a dwarf elephant from Tilos and an early antelope from Samos. The predecessors of modern man are also present in this section in the form of plaster casts of three humanoid skulls.
A key element of the exhibition is the impressive findings of the Lesvos Petrified Forest, such as petrified tree trunks, leaves and root system segments. The exhibition in Rome is expected to contribute to the promotion of the Lesvos Petrified Forest and the various geological monuments along with the rich cultural heritage of the Aegean islands. Coincidentally, as of this summer a direct flight that connects Rome with Mytilene is planned; an air route that will facilitate the visit to the Lesvos Petrified Forest and the Lesvos Geopark.