8th Mediterranean Conference on Marine Turtles

The 8th Mediterranean Conference on Marine Turtles will take place in Marathon, Greece, from November 9 to 13, 2026. The conference is organized by ARCHELON and serves as the premier gathering point for scientists, researchers, and organizations dedicated to the study and conservation of marine turtles in the Mediterranean.

Aliki Panagopoulou, PhD Research Coordinator at ARCHELON, has been elected President of the Conference, a choice reflecting Greece’s long-standing involvement and international recognition in scientific research. The conference will be held at a location of both historical and natural significance, the Golden Coast Hotel & Resort in Marathon.

“Guardians of Our Ancient Sea”

Under the theme “Guardians of Our Ancient Sea,” the conference will focus on three main pillars:

• Scientific Knowledge: Presentation and exchange of cutting-edge data on the biology and conservation of marine turtle species.
• Regional Cooperation: Strengthening bonds and collaborative actions among Mediterranean countries.
• Contemporary Challenges: Addressing critical issues such as climate change, bycatch, and pressures from over-tourism.

A Historic Return

This event carries a symbolic significance for ARCHELON's people who pioneered in establishing the Mediterranean Conferences 25 years ago. In 2001, in Rome, ARCHELON and its founder, Dimitris Margaritoulis (as representative of the IUCN/SSC Marine Turtle Specialist Group), laid the foundations for this institution. Today, the 8th conference returns to Greece as an opportunity to highlight decades of continuous effort to protect Greek beaches and seas.

More Information

For details on abstract submission, registration, the detailed program, and accommodation, please visit the official conference website: medturtleconf.gr