The largest native tortoise species in mainland Europe. It is easily distinguished by its elongated shell that flares out at the rear, creating a distinctive "marginated" edge, a feature that becomes particularly pronounced in adults.
Native to Greece and parts of the southern Balkans, it inhabits rocky hillsides, scrublands, and dry mountainous terrain. Despite its robust appearance, it is a surprisingly agile climber.
• Κρασπεδοχελώνα (Kraspedochelona)
• Marginated tortoise
• Tortuga marginada
Scientific classification:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Testudinidae
Genus: Testudo
Species: Testudo marginata
Acropolis Museum Gardens, Athens, Greece
Camera: Canon EOS R7
Lens: Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary
Capture Information:
Focal Length: 313.0 mm
Shutter Speed: 1/4000
Aperture: f/6.3
ISO: 800
Photo Taken: May 19, 2026
High resolution
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