Rhodes Butterflies Valley

Butterfly Valley is a place of scenic beauty located on the Greek island of Rhodes in the valley of Petaloudes. In this unusual area there are waterfalls, lakes, rivers and charming flower beds. Reservoirs provide sufficient air humidity, which contributes to the formation of a favorable microclimate for flora and fauna.

Trees of the genus tsiraks grow in the park, which tend to emit odorous resins. During a drought in the village of Theologos, flocks of rare Tiger butterflies and four-point bears gather for the delicate scents emanating from the thyrax, filling the area with life and movement. They flock here from all over the neighborhood. It was through these inhabitants that the area was named the "Valley of the Butterflies."

Butterflies, as if meditating, sit on trees, almost do not fly around the territory. You can't see them on the bark at first glance, because they change color when they disguise themselves. They have a mating season from May to September. During this period, moths are very vulnerable, so as not to harm them, it is strictly forbidden to touch them, and it is also not allowed to scream. The less energy butterflies spend, the longer they live.

Several species of these amazing creatures that breed in the Butterfly Valley are listed in the Red Book.

In autumn, all the butterflies leave the area, they fly away, starting a new migration cycle. Crabs, lizards, rare birds, and goats roam freely in the park.

Butterfly Valley is a national park under state protection. The protected area is a narrow park, with a path leading all the way up to the top of the hill. It is necessary to take this feature into account and not forget about comfortable shoes. Along the way, you can see the ancient mill, the ancient bench of Tiberius. Back in ancient times, the Greek emperor stayed here in self-imposed exile due to love problems. Since then, this place has been shrouded in a special atmosphere, it is believed that if you make a wish by sitting on a bench, it will definitely come true. At the top there is a monastery of the Virgin Mary Cleopatra of the 17th century with a belfry and a carved wooden iconostasis. The monastery is a popular pilgrimage center.

There is a local butterfly museum at the reserve.