Geomorphosites


Allochthonous sandstones of Akamas Member
Cyprus owes its uniqueness and high geodiversity to its complex geological and tectonic evolution, which attracts the interest of the global geological community.

This geodiversity has created geomorphosites of great importance, based on their scientific and educational value, their uniqueness and their aesthetic appeal (exquisite/alluring appeal). The protection and preservation of sites of unique geological and geomorphological value, is a necessity for the preservation of the geological heritage of Cyprus and the planet in general.

The European Landscape Convention, which was signed in Florence in 2000, protects landscapes with a remarkable and particular character, based on their geomorphology, natural beauty, unique biodiversity or the historical coexistence of the landscape with humans. Their protection is essential for the preservation of the geological heritage and it is equally important to disseminate the information to the social and scientific community. Geomorphosites, canyons and mountain peaks are protected by the Policy Statement of the Department of Urban Planning and Housing, the Geological Survey Law of 2013, as well as the Environmental Impact Assessment of certain projects Law of 2018, which now clearly states the need to protect the geological heritage.

Some important geomorphosites, that are protected:

The Kakkaristra gorge is located southwest of Latsia Municipality. The impressive thanatocoenosis of the species Ostrea edulis and Balanus tintinnabulum that appear along the gorge, indicate the last stages of emergence of the Central Mesaoria Basin from the sea, approximately two million years ago.

Pillow lavas and dykes are exposed on the banks of the Maroulena River, near the village of Kalon Chorion Oreinis. They were formed approximately 90 million years ago on the bottom of the Neotethys Ocean by volcanic activity.

Teisia tis Madaris is made up by impressive vertical rocks, which resemble chiseled walls, dominate the Madari ridge. The impressive rocks and cliffs at this location, were formed due to differential erosion of the rocks that constitute the Sheeted Dyke Complex (Diabase).

Allochthonous xenoliths of Quartzite Sandstones dominate the landscape at Alykou location near Ineia village, which are exposed as a result of their high resistance to erosion in contrast to the surrounding rocks.

Petra tou Romiou is made up of blocks of recrystallized limestone of the Mamonia Complex, which formed coral reefs approximately 200 million years ago.

Kourtellorotsos (or Hasampoulia Rocks) are imposing rocks that rise in the Diarizos River valley, near the abandoned village of Prastion. These impressive blocks consist of recrystallized reef limestone.

Specific information on protected geomorphosites are available on the website of the Department of Urban Planning and Housing, under the current published development plans.



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