Mineral Resources of Greece

Greece is famous for its past civilization and achievements. It is located in the eastern part of Europe. The neighbouring countries are Italy, Turkey and Bulgaria. Greece has a rich culture of art, painting, music and sculpture. It used to be a sporting and military power in the past. Greek architecture and carving were best in the World during the ancient period. The Greek monuments are among the best monuments of the World. Rocks, sand, lime and mortars played important roles in shaping the structures and monuments of Greece. Greece is a hilly and mountainous country. Around 20 percent of lands are fit for agriculture. Around 50 percent of land is covered with forests and wood land. The country has an area of 131940 sq. km. The coastline is 15021 km long .Greece is composed of mainland and islands. The islands are around 1425 and found in the adjoining seas. The islands are small in size and attract tourists in large numbers.

Greece is famous for its hills and mountain ranges. The major rocks of this country are granite, gneiss, marble, limestone, sandstone and schist. Greece is rich in mineral resources like bauxite, gold, nickel, lead, silver, zinc, limestone, perlite, bentonite, coal and natural gas. Crude oil is also found in some pockets. Bauxite is found and extracted from central region. Gold is extracted from north and north eastern parts of Greece. Nickel is mined from central and northern part of the country. Coal and natural gas are used for power and industries. Limestone is used for cement production .Building stones are used for construction. Decorative stones are used for decorating the buildings and structures.

Greece is facing debt liabilities with high level of budget deficit. The income of the people is found to be lower in Europe. The dependence on tourism is not helping Greece to grow further and meet the budget deficits. Greece could not compete with Italy and Turkey in industrial production and development. Greece may go for mineral processing, oil refining and shipping. These activities may help the economy of Greece.