Gialova lagoon is located in Messinia and is one of the most important wetlands not only in Greece, but also in Europe. It probably dates to prehistoric times and owes its creation both to tectonic activity and to a rise in sea level, phenomena which created this ecological zone of unique importance.

The Gialova lagoon is the first station in the Balkans that the migratory birds from Africa come across; according to the estimates, these birds are 2 billion in number. Of the 442 bird species recorded on Greek soil, more than 270 have been recorded in Gialova. Apart from birds, however, the area also hosts an impressive number of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish. So, it is no wonder that it should officially be included in the Natura 2000 Network as a Special Protection Area (SPA); it has also been recognized as a Wildlife Sanctuary and an Important Bird Area.