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.