Author(s):
Pereira, D. I. 
; Pereira, Paulo ; Alves, M. I. Caetano ; Brilha, J. B.
Date: 2004
Persistent ID: http://hdl.handle.net/1822/2067
Origin: RepositóriUM - Universidade do Minho
Subject(s): Geomorphological frameworks; Geomorphological assets; Geological heritage; Landforms; Portugal
Description
Portugal presents a rich geodiversity in spite of its reduced area. Along 92 152 km2, the last 1000 Ma are recorded on
different types of rocks. This lithological diversity together with major tectonic structures and specific Quaternary climatic
conditions had developed several geomorphological features with high scientific, didactic, and aesthetic values. The concept
of Geomorphological Heritage, part of what is considered Geological Heritage, has been developed by many authors during
the last decade. The present work constitutes the first attempt for the definition of Portuguese geomorphological
frameworks with national relevance, according to the objectives of the IAG's Geomorphological Sites Working Group and
ProGEO. The emphasis is given to major landforms, with landscape value. Minor landforms and features shall be
considered in the scope of a following detailed inventory and characterisation. The proposed frameworks cover all the
Portuguese territory including Azores and Madeira archipelagos. For each framework some representative geosites were
selected, based upon the spectacularity of the landforms, its rareness (in the Portuguese context), and essentially on its
scientific and didactic values.
The proposed frameworks include: i) granite landforms (Gerês and Estrela mountains); ii) carbonate and evaporite
landforms (Aire and Candeeiros karsts); iii) volcanic landforms (Azores and Madeira Archipelagos); iv) residual landforms
(Monsanto inselberg); v) tectonic landforms (Vilariça valley); vi) fluvial landforms as canyons (Douro) and alluvial plains
(Lower Tejo); vii) coastal landforms like beaches (Quiaios-Aveiro), dunes (Porto Santo), lagoons (Obidos), estuaries (Tejo
estuary), cliffs (Alentejo SW coast), and coastal platforms (Aveiro region); viii) glacial and periglacial landforms (cirques,
glacial troughs, grooves, moraines and others in Estrela and Gerês mountains). Cultural landscapes are also considered, as
the Alto Douro Wine Region and the Pico Island Vineyard Culture (respectively, inscribed and submitted to the World
Heritage List). These examples are only indicative due to space restrictions.
Until the present moment about sixty sites and areas with high geomorphological interest were considered. A significant
number of those are included in protected areas, having therefore some kind of protection. Nevertheless, many others
should be considered in geoconservation strategies to be implemented by Portuguese authorities.
