Geotourism Potential of Georgia, the Caucasus: History, Culture, Geology, Geotourist Routes and Geoparks

Georgia's territory is a "natural geological laboratory" that exposes magmatic, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks from the Neoproterozoic to the Quaternary. This book describes the three main geotourism routes of Georgia, including potential geoparks such as Sataplia dinosaur footprints, Tskaltubo resort-town, Borjomi resort-town, Kazbegi Quaternary volcanoes, Keli volcanic highland, Dariali Paleozoic granitoid massif, Dmanisi hominids site, Mashavera gorge basaltic flow, Dashbashi canyon, Uplistsikhe rock-cut town, Kvakhvreli cave complex, Udabno - Upper Miocene marine and continental deposits, and David Gareja monastery complex.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 81 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Georgian territory is a remarkable "natural geological laboratory," showcasing a diverse array of magmatic, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks spanning from the Neoproterozoic to the Quaternary. After providing a brief introduction to Georgia's history and culture, the authors delve into the stratigraphy, rock types, tectonic structures, and paleotectonic reconstructions of the Caucasus.

This comprehensive book meticulously outlines three primary geotourism routes in Georgia:

1. Tbilisi-Pasanauri-Kazbegi (along the Georgian Military Road),
2. Tbilisi-Zugdidi-Mestia-Ushguli, and
3. Tbilisi-Khashuri-Vardzia.

These routes traverse diverse parts of the Fold Systems of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus and the Transcaucasian Intermountain area.

Within this book, readers are introduced to a selection of potential geoparks that showcase the geological wonders of Georgia. These include:

1. Sataplia dinosaur footprints, accompanied by the Sataplia and Prometheus caves,
2. Tskaltubo resort-town and its mineral water deposit,
3. Borjomi resort-town and its mineral water deposit,
4. Kazbegi Quaternary volcanoes and the Keli volcanic highland,
5. Dariali Paleozoic granitoid massif,
6. Dmanisi hominids site and the Mashavera gorge basaltic flow,
7. Dashbashi canyon,
8. Uplistsikhe rock-cut town and the Kvakhvreli cave complex,
9. Udabno - Upper Miocene marine and continental deposits, and
10. Dedoplistskaro - Vashlovani protected areas and mud volcanoes.

Each geopark is described in detail, providing insights into its unique geological features, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. Whether you are an avid geologist, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this book offers a wealth of information and inspiration for exploring the geological marvels of Georgia.

Weight: 251g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030629687
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021