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Climbing Area in Greece Saved From Closure

After a year-long battle, climbers and environmentalists have saved access to a famous Crete crag

A famous rock climbing wall called Paligremnos in Plakias on the island of Crete has been saved by the government by declaring it a monument of Natural and Cultural Heritage. The declaration has stopped the development of a resort, development which would have closed the crag to climbers. The rock and land above and below are now protected.

This is a big win for climbers and environmentalists who’ve been protesting the resort and campaigning for the area to be protected. One year ago, a developer was given permission to turn the land on top of the crag into a resort. A group called Save Paligremnos SOS Plakias started an online petition that now has nearly 50,000 signatures.

In a free online guide, the area is described as, “An immaculate vertical cliff with impressive crack systems, that causes the climber’s heartbeat to quicken. The striking and perfectly smooth vertical limestone wall rises at the far end of the beach in a stunning display of geological beauty.”

Anytime a climbing area is protected is a reason to celebrate. With so many access issues plaguing climbers in some places, it’s great to see that some governments understand the benefits of our sport.

SOS Plakias Video

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