Geomorphology of the Sierra de Atapuerca and the Middle Arlanzón Valley (Burgos, Spain)

A geomorphological map of the Sierra de Atapuerca and Middle Arlanzón Valley reveals a complex landscape shaped by Neogene polygenetic landform development, preserving four planation surfaces as plateaus. This region's unique geological and geomorphological characteristics have facilitated the formation and preservation of archaeo-palaeoanthropological sites for over one million years. The study, covering 207 km² at a 1:25,000 scale, identifies 14 strath terraces dating from the Early Pleistocene, formed through exoreic fluvial valley incision, alongside other landforms such as landslides, cones, semi-endoreic areas, colluvial deposits, and karstic features. The research integrates fieldwork, a 5 m resolution digital elevation model, aerial photographs, and geological maps to synthesize the geodynamic evolution of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Benito-Calvo, A., & Pérez-González, A. (2014). Geomorphology of the Sierra de Atapuerca and the Middle Arlanzón Valley (Burgos, Spain). Journal of Maps, 11(4), 535–544. https://doi.org/10.1080/17445647.2014.909339