EcoMuseum Zagori was founded to manage the protection and exploitation of the natural and cultural heritage of the area, aiming to boost local development. The central principle on which it operates is that an area’s monuments should remain in situ as a living testament to a specific era. Its visitors learn about various aspects of social life, production processes and the socio-economic and natural history of the region. It is therefore “open” and “alive” encouraging interaction with visitors. Meanwhile, it interprets the spiritual, social and economic evolution of the local population which is directly connected to the natural environment and its effect on the definition of its identity. The museum’s scope extends to include all local goods and the local community. Its statutory objectives are: the cultural, social, demographic and economic development of the area and the protection and promotion of its natural environment.