In a tragic turn of events, a hiker lost her life in Greece's renowned Samaria Gorge, located in the White Mountains of western Crete. The incident occurred on September 18, 2024, when a sudden rainstorm caused a rockfall in the popular national park.
The victim, identified as a 33-year-old Ukrainian woman, sustained a severe leg injury from a large falling rock. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to blood loss. No other injuries were reported among the approximately 1,000 visitors present in the gorge at the time of the accident.
Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest gorges stretching 16 kilometers, has been a protected national park since 1962. Attracting over 170,000 visitors annually, it is known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystem, including the rare kri-kri (Cretan wild goat) and more than 450 plant species.
In response to the incident, authorities have temporarily closed the gorge pending a thorough safety inspection to assess the risk of further rockfalls. This closure affects the usual May to October hiking season, during which visitors typically spend 5-7 hours traversing the entire length of the gorge.
The gorge's narrowest point, aptly named "The Gates," measures only 4 meters wide, highlighting the potential dangers in such a confined natural space. This recent tragedy underscores the importance of safety measures in natural parks, especially those with challenging terrains.
Samaria Gorge, part of the E4 European long-distance path, has historical significance beyond its natural beauty. It played a crucial role in Cretan resistance during World War II and houses ruins of Byzantine churches, testament to its long-standing human habitation.
As the only gorge in Europe encompassing an entire forest, Samaria is not just a tourist attraction but a vital ecosystem protected under the Natura 2000 network. This incident serves as a somber reminder of nature's unpredictability and the need for continued vigilance in popular outdoor destinations.
Authorities will likely reassess safety protocols and potentially implement additional measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, balancing the preservation of this unique natural wonder with visitor safety.