Thematic dimension of geological heritage: An evidence from the Western Caucasus

Mountainous Adygeja in the Western Caucasus hosts a geodiversity hotspot with 14 geological heritage sites that offer unique insights into Earth's history. These geosites, spanning from the Precambrian to the Quaternary, provide evidence of significant palaeotectonic shifts, including the transition of the Greater Caucasus Terrane from Gondwana to Laurussia and later Laurasia. The study highlights how these sites can be thematically grouped to enhance their scientific and educational value, making them more appealing for geoconservation efforts and geotourism. This thematic approach ensures that visitors can observe rocks, fossils, and facies characteristic of key geological periods such as the Permian, Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous, while also acknowledging other significant geological features to avoid underestimation.

Plyusnina, E., Ruban, D., & Zayats, P. (2015). Thematic dimension of geological heritage: An evidence from the Western Caucasus. Zbornik Radova Geografskog Instituta Jovan Cvijic, SANU, 65(1), 59–76. https://doi.org/10.2298/ijgi1501059p