This case study explores the cultural significance and sustainability dimensions of the traditional use of wild edible plants – known locally as chórta – in Crete, situating these practices within the framework of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). These plants, foraged seasonally from the island’s diverse landscapes, are not merely a dietary component but part of a broader system of ecological knowledge, resilience, and identity. Their collection and use express a deep-rooted connection between people and nature, shaped by centuries of adaptation to environmental, economic, and cultural transformations.
Crete’s biodiversity is extraordinary: over 1,800 species of flora, with more than 190 endemic species, provide the foundation for the island’s rich tradition of foraging. Local communities regularly consume over 150 species of wild greens, integrating them into everyday meals, especially during periods of religious fasting, economic hardship, or food scarcity. This practice was especially vital during the Nazi occupation of World War II and earlier times of famine, when wild plants became essential for survival. Beyond their nutritional role, these plants carry symbolic and practical value, encapsulating notions of frugality, autonomy, and continuity.
The chórta tradition also contributes to the international recognition of the Cretan diet, often cited for its exceptional health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients, wild edible plants represent a cornerstone of what has come to be viewed not only as a regional dietary pattern, but as an internationally influential model for sustainable food practices.
Although local practitioners perceive climate change impacts as currently limited, scientific experts warn of future vulnerabilities, including changes in rainfall, temperature extremes, and shifting ecological balances. More immediate threats, however, stem from anthropogenic pressures: overharvesting driven by commercialization, habitat degradation due to mass tourism, unregulated agricultural expansion, and the erosion of traditional knowledge systems. Eastern Crete, with its unique biodiversity and tourism development, is particularly affected.
The intergenerational transmission of knowledge – primarily oral and practice-based – remains central. Elderly women traditionally play a leading role in identifying, collecting, and preparing wild plants. However, new educational and cultural initiatives (e.g., school programs, local festivals, botanical museums, and NGO-led workshops) are emerging to safeguard and revitalize this heritage, often blending traditional wisdom with contemporary ecological awareness.
Legal protections exist at the environmental level (e.g., EU Natura 2000 network, Habitats Directive), yet few measures are in place specifically to preserve the cultural practices linked to wild plant use. Nonetheless, awareness is growing. Initiatives such as the LIFE Natura2000ValueCrete project emphasize the value of traditional ecological knowledge as both a cultural asset and a tool for environmental stewardship.
In sum, the traditional practices of wild edible plant use in Crete represent a dynamic and adaptive form of living heritage. They offer not only insights into local identity and historical resilience, but also practical contributions to current challenges in biodiversity conservation, food sovereignty, and climate adaptation.
