This proposal concerns the creation of a Wildlife Care Center in Crete, based in the city of Chania, aiming to address the lack of permanent and organized infrastructure for the rescue and care of injured or weakened wild animals on the island. The main goal of the project is to establish a fully functional and effective center for the protection of Cretan wildlife, contributing to biodiversity conservation and raising public environmental awareness.
It is planned to be located within the Park for the Preservation of Flora and Fauna owned by the University of Crete - an area rich in biodiversity and equipped with existing facilities that will support the Center’s operation.
The facilities of the Center will include treatment areas (clinics, operating rooms, recovery and isolation rooms), 15 rehabilitation and adaptation enclosures designed for different animal groups (birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians), as well as volunteer accommodation and a dedicated environmental education room.
The study is based on extensive research of existing centers in Greece (EKPAZ, ANIMA, Action for Wildlife, ALKIONI, ARCTUROS, ARCHELON, MOm), from which valuable experience and best practices were drawn.
The Center will be divided into two main sections: The first and larger section will consist of the non-public areas for the care and rehabilitation of wild animals. The second will include visitor services and educational spaces open to the public.
The architectural concept, inspired by the work of architect Junya Ishigami, proposes a semi-underground concrete structure formed within an earthen mold. Its final appearance will feature a natural, earthy texture to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment and reduce stress for the animals being treated. Special emphasis is placed on the use of green roofs and photovoltaic systems to ensure energy self-sufficiency.
