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More than 30 years of Research, knowledge and expertise
For more than 30 years, SELAS has been active in the fields of scientific research, geography, cartography, environmental analysis, and the development of scientific and educational content. Through this long-standing activity, the organization has developed extensive expertise and a rich archive of geographical, environmental, historical and cartographic data relating to Cyprus and the wider Mediterranean region.
The SELAS Research and Studies Center draws on this accumulated knowledge, combined with modern research methods and spatial analysis, to undertake studies, implement research projects, produce scientific publications and develop specialized content for environmental, educational, cultural and tourism projects.
The Center’s interdisciplinary team includes researchers, geographers, cartographers, environmental scientists, historians, writers and academic associates from Cyprus and abroad. At the same time, SELAS collaborates with universities, research institutions, public bodies and private organizations, creating networks of knowledge and expertise that enhance the quality and scientific documentation of its projects.
A particular strength of the Center is its extensive archive of research material, maps, publications, bibliographic sources and datasets, accumulated and enriched through more than three decades of systematic research and fieldwork. This archive provides a valuable foundation for the study of Cyprus’s natural and human environment and for the development of new research and educational applications.
The Center’s activities extend from physical geography, the environment and biodiversity to cartography and GIS, historical geography, cultural heritage, regional development, sustainable tourism and scientific communication. At the same time, SELAS draws on its research experience to develop content for museums, environmental centers, educational platforms, websites, publications and thematic routes.
Our aim is to ensure that scientific knowledge does not remain confined to research, but is transformed into useful information, evidence-based solutions and applications with real-world impact. By connecting research with education, environmental protection, cultural heritage and sustainable development, the SELAS Research and Studies Center continues to create knowledge and support projects that contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of the places and environments of Cyprus.
Our main areas of activity include:
- Scientific research and studies
- Participation in and coordination of research projects
- Environmental, geographical and historical studies
- Cartography, GIS and spatial technologies
- Research and content development for museums, environmental and educational Centers
- Scientific publications and educational materials
- Thematic routes and cultural heritage projects
- Development of scientific content for digital media
- Collaborations with universities, research institutions and organisations
- Research supporting education, environmental protection and sustainable development
The following thematic sections provide an overview of the breadth of SELAS’s research and scientific activities.
Physical Geography
Physical geography is one of the key pillars of SELAS’s research activities, focusing on the study of natural systems and the processes that shape the Earth’s environment. Research extends from the geological and geomorphological evolution of the planet to the study of climate, soils, natural resources and the distinctive physical characteristics of Cyprus.
Particular emphasis is placed on the study of Cyprus’s physical environment, its geological structure, geomorphology, rocks and mineral resources, as well as the island’s climatic and soil characteristics. The approach combines geographical and scientific research, cartographic data, bibliographic sources and field observation.
At the same time, SELAS studies broader phenomena related to the functioning of Earth systems, atmospheric circulation and the formation of natural conditions, highlighting the importance of scientific knowledge for understanding and sustainably managing the natural environment.
Indicative research topics include the evolution of continents and Earth systems, atmospheric circulation, the geology, rocks and mineral resources of Cyprus, the geomorphology of Cyprus, the climate, weather conditions and soils of Cyprus, natural resources and sustainable management, among others.
Environment and Climate Change
The study of the environment and its changes is a core area of activity of the SELAS Research and Studies Center. Research focuses on the complex interactions between natural systems, human activities and environmental change, with particular emphasis on the challenges facing Cyprus and the wider Mediterranean region.
Climate change, the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme events, wildfires, deforestation and the degradation of natural ecosystems are among the subjects of systematic research. Through the collection, processing and spatial analysis of data, the Center examines the impacts of environmental change on ecosystems and human activities.
At the same time, SELAS’s research focuses on biodiversity conservation and the promotion of sustainable development principles, contributing to the scientific documentation of environmental projects, educational initiatives and public awareness activities.
Indicative research topics include climate change and its impacts on ecosystems, wildfires in the Mediterranean, deforestation and environmental degradation, contemporary environmental challenges in the Mediterranean, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Flora, Fauna and Ecosystems
The biodiversity of Cyprus and the Mediterranean is an important area of research for the Center, with a particular focus on flora, fauna and natural ecosystems. Cyprus’s geographical location, at the crossroads of different biogeographical regions, provides a particularly significant field of study for understanding the distribution and evolution of species.
Research activities include the study of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, and the relationships between organisms and their natural environment. Particular attention is given to marine species and ecosystems, as well as to changes associated with climate change and the introduction of new species into the Mediterranean.
Indicative research topics include the flora and fauna of Cyprus, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, the Mediterranean biodiversity, the geographical distribution and ecology of the sea turtles in Cyprus and the Mediterranean, the Mediterranean seal, the Lessepsian species and their impacts on marine ecosystems etc.
Cartography, GIS and Spatial Technologies
Cartography and spatial analysis are fundamental components of SELAS’s research activity. With many years of experience in cartographic research and production, the Center uses modern technologies and methodologies for the collection, processing, analysis and visualization of geographic data.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, aerial photography and satellite imagery enable the integration of different types of data and the development of complex spatial analyses. These applications support environmental, geographical, historical and development studies, while also serving as important tools for communicating scientific information to the wider public.
SELAS’s experience in cartography combines scientific accuracy with the need for clear and effective communication of information, whether it is intended for researchers and professionals or for students, visitors and the wider public.
Indicative research topics include cartographic projections, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing applications, aerial photography and satellite imagery, spatial analysis and environmental mapping.
Medical and Environmental Geography
Medical, health and environmental geography examines the relationship between place, the environment, human populations and health. It is an interdisciplinary field in which geographical and environmental information can contribute to understanding the spatial distribution of diseases and the factors affecting population health.
SELAS’s research approach includes the study of the geography of epidemics, the spatial distribution of diseases, and the relationship between environmental change and emerging diseases. The use of cartographic and spatial tools enables the visualization of complex datasets and the identification of geographical patterns.
The field also extends to the study of environmental migration and the potential impacts of environmental change on human societies and population distribution.
Indicative research topics include the geography of epidemics and the spatial distribution of diseases, environmental change and emerging diseases, environmental migration, medical cartography and applications in public health, among others.
Urban, Rural and Regional Development
The geographical study of space is an important tool for understanding the social, economic, environmental and cultural characteristics of a region. SELAS has developed research activities focusing on rural development, regional planning, cultural landscapes and the sustainable use of the distinctive characteristics of each area.
Through geographical and environmental studies, the Center examines the natural characteristics, human activity, historical development and development potential of these areas.
This approach combines scientific documentation with the need to protect and highlight natural and cultural assets, with the aim of supporting approaches to sustainable regional development.
Indicative research topics include geographical studies of the Akamas Peninsula, research on the Laona Plateau, rural development and cultural landscapes, regional planning and sustainable development.
Research and Scientific Documentation for Museums, Environmental and Educational Centers
Scientific knowledge acquires particular value when it can be transformed into content that is accessible and engaging for different audiences. SELAS has extensive experience in research, documentation and the development of scientific content for museums, environmental and educational centers.
The SELAS Research and Studies Centre contributes to the research and scientific documentation of thematic exhibitions, the development of interpretive texts, and the organization of scientific information in ways that facilitate understanding and enhance the visitor experience.
Indicative projects and areas of activity include research and scientific documentation for the Ineia Turtle Museum, research and development projects for the Akamas Birdlife and Flora Visitor Center, studies and scientific documentation for environmental and educational centers in Cyprus, and the development of interpretive and educational content for museums and environmental centers, among others.
Through such projects, scientific research is connected with environmental education, public awareness and the interpretation and promotion of natural heritage.
Cultural Heritage and Historical Geography
Cultural heritage is an integral part of the geographical and environmental identity of a place. SELAS studies the relationship between people, place and history, examining the ways in which human societies have shaped and continue to shape the Cypriot landscape.
Research activities include the study of religious heritage, historical areas, archaeological sites and cultural landscapes. The Centre also examines historical geographical units and their transformation over time, combining historical sources, cartographic material and geographical analysis.
Indicative research topics include studies of the churches and monasteries of Cyprus, the geography and history of Cyprus, the hinterland of ancient Amathus, Mycenaean influences in ancient Enkomi and Kition, cultural landscapes and historical routes, among others. The resulting knowledge is also used in the development of cultural routes, publications and heritage interpretation projects.
Thematic Routes and Tourism Development
The interpretation and promotion of a place through thematic routes is an effective means of connecting the natural environment, cultural heritage, local history and contemporary tourism experiences. SELAS designs and documents routes based on scientific research, highlighting the distinctive characteristics of each area.
This activity includes hiking and cycling routes, cultural routes and thematic tours in areas of particular natural and cultural interest. Particular emphasis is placed on the interpretation of the landscape and cultural heritage, enabling visitors not only to explore a place, but also to gain meaningful knowledge and a deeper connection with it.
Indicative projects and areas of activity include studies for hiking and cycling routes in Akamas, Troodos and the Ezousa Valley, a study for cultural routes in Stroumpi, thematic routes in the Solea region, and research on natural and cultural heritage, among others.
- Study for the Design of Hiking and Cycling Routes in Pano Arodes
- “Aphrodite” Thematic Route
- Ezousa Valley Hiking Route
- Cultural Routes in Stroumpi
Scientific writing, editing and communication
The transformation of scientific knowledge into content that is clear, accurate and appropriate for different audiences is an important area of activity of the SELAS Research and Studies Centre.
The interdisciplinary expertise of the team enables the writing, editing, processing and adaptation of scientific content, with the aim of effectively communicating complex geographical, environmental, historical and cultural subjects.
The approach adapts content to the specific audience and communication medium, ranging from scientific and educational publications to digital media and online applications. In this way, scientific information is presented with clarity, accuracy and narrative coherence, while maintaining its scientific documentation and credibility.
Indicative areas of activity include the writing and editing of scientific and educational texts, the adaptation of scientific information for different audiences, the development of content for digital media and websites, as well as the scientific editing of publications and thematic content.
Hundreds of Scientific Publications, Maps and Specialised Editions
Research Projects in Geography, the Environment, Cartography, Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development
Collaborations with Universities & Research Institutions