Founded in 1938. It was the second Greek National Park following Olympos. It covers an area of 3,695 hectares. The quality and significance of the area are due to the ecological and aesthetic value of its natural elements, mainly its biodiversity. From an ecological aspect, it has a large variety of vegetation with exceptional structure. There are alpine meadows at high altitudes, bare rocks and an impressive Abies cephalonica (Greek fir) forest. The above characteristics in combination with its interesting geomorphology establish the region extremely rich in flora and fauna. Its core complies with the Special Protection Area (SPA) under the Directive 79/409 on the conservation of wild birds. The area is significant for birds of prey, woodpeckers and other birds.