Geomorphological mapping as a tool for geoheritage inventory and geotourism promotion: a case study from the middle valley of the Marecchia River (northern Italy)

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the geomorphological map of the right side of the middle Marecchia valley, in the northern Apennines (Italy), as a basis to enhance the geotouristic potential of the area. This area has been chosen because it is representative of the geological, geomorphological and geodynamic context characterizing the whole Marecchia basin, where a massive allochthonous body (known as Valmarecchia Nappe) widely outcrops. This area consists of Ligurian and Epiligurian formations that overthrust the Umbro-Marchean autochthonous units, drawing a peculiar landscape characterized by high geodiversity and marked above all by landforms developing into various formations. In order to map the main geomorphological features, multi-temporal aerial photos analysis, field survey and bibliographical research, concerning both the geomorphological and cultural values, have been carried out. The landforms highlighted in the map include stream terraces, vertical cliffs, alluvial fans, badlands and landslides; additional geomorphological points of interest have been described and mapped as they represent the most distinctive events in the area. The geomorphological features have been integrated with the additional (ecological, aesthetic, cultural) values to quantify the value of each geosite using an adapted version of Reynard et al. ( 2016)'s method, from which it emerged that the sites have high scores both in terms of scientific and additional values, making the study area an ideal territory in which implement actions and proposals for geotouristic fruition.

The Mt. Catria–Mt. Nerone Ridge in the North-Marchean Apennines (Central Italy): A Potential Geopark?

“…The northernmost sector of the region is affected by the Cretaceous-Pliocene formations of the so-called 'Coltre della Valmarecchia' or 'Valmarecchia Nappe', originating from the Ligurian-Piedmontese basin and overlapping the Umbro-Marchean Succession through both tectonic and gravitational mechanisms [74,75]. The strong lithological contrast between the predominantly clayey Ligurian Units and the more rigid, predominantly Epiligurian limestone blocks on top has contributed to a unique and fascinating landscape but, at the same time, fragile and unstable.…”

The Mt. Catria – Mt. Nerone Ridge in the North-Marchean Apennines (Central Italy): A Potential Geopark? Definition and Strengths of a Great Geological, Natural, and Cultural Heritage

“…-The northernmost sector of the region is affected by the Cretaceous-Pliocene formations of the so-called 'Coltre della Valmarecchia' or 'Valmarecchia Nappe', originating from the Ligurian-Piedmontese basin and overlapping the Umbro-Marchean succession through both tectonic and gravitational mechanisms [22,23]. The strong lithological contrast between the predominantly clayey Ligurian Units and the more rigid, predominantly Epiligurian limestone blocks on top, has contributed to a unique and fascinating landscape but, at the same time, fragile and unstable.…”

Enhancement of Geoheritage and Development of Geotourism: Comparison and Inferences from Different Experiences of Communication through Art

“…This variety is a consequence of the geological history of the Apennine chain [28], which produced extraordinary contrasts of physical forms in a restricted space. Moreover, located on the border between the Marche and Emilia-Romagna regions, the Valmarecchia and Montefeltro areas are well-known by geologists all over the world for the origin and evolution of the Valmarecchia nappe, which consists of stacked slices of Ligurian and Epiligurian rocks over-thrusting Tuscan and Umbro-Marchean units, and producing unique geological landscapes [17,30,31]. Historians and artists also know these areas: they were sites of significant human settlements, in some cases since the prehistoric age, leaving us with testimonies of great cultural interest.…”