The creation of a large and modern aquarium on the island of Crete was both a challenge and a vision—not only for the local research community, but for the Cretan society as a whole.
 The overwhelming response from the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to CRETAquarium each year justifies the tireless efforts made by the former Institute of Marine Biology of Crete, as well as by today’s unified national body for marine research, the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR).

CRETAquarium has become an expert in presenting species and ecosystems of the Mediterranean, a sea of unique biodiversity that gave birth to ancient civilizations and welcomes millions of visitors every year from all over the world. CRETAquarium features 62 tanks of various sizes, containing a total amount of 1,800,000 litres of seawater. It is home to 1,500 marine animals and 130 different species found in the Mediterranean basin. Combined with carefully designed habitats, it successfully recreates the Cretan and Mediterranean seabeds.
 Additionally, CRETAquarium designs and implements educational programmes and other innovative services, rehabilitates injured animals, and is constantly enriched with new marine species.

The Aquarium’s expertise in presenting Mediterranean species and ecosystems is grounded in the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research’s long-standing experience in Mediterranean marine science.
 The Mediterranean Sea hosts an impressive biodiversity, gave birth to ancient civilizations, and continues to welcome millions of visitors each year.

At CRETAquarium, each visitor has the opportunity to discover the sea life of the Mediterranean—to learn, to be inspired, and to contribute to its sustainable future.
 Here, attractions turn into knowledge, and experiences raise questions.